The Bluebird Cafe and Grill: Feeding the Heart of Orangeville | Written By Lindsay W. (Dufferin Board of Trade)
Located in downtown Orangeville is a beloved and historic town staple, the Bluebird Cafe and Grill. Established by Jennifer Grant in 1982 as a natural food store, this establishment has been feeding the town fresh local Italian-inspired food for decades. Most recently in 2019, Michelle and Rick Arsenault purchased the Bluebird Cafe and Grill, upholding its legacy and expanding by fostering customer relationships and creating a memorable culinary experience.
In 2006, Michelle and Rick moved to Orangeville and were immediately introduced to the restaurant they know today. Rick recalls, “It was the first restaurant we ate at, and we fell in love with it,” soon becoming their favourite restaurant. After learning it was for sale, and with Michelle having worked there for three years prior combined with their 35 years of experience in the restaurant and hospitality industry, they knew what was missing and how to make it better.
“The old field of dreams: Love something so much you build it, and it will come to you,”
When dining, customers can enjoy a welcoming dine-in experience indoors or on the patio or opt for the convenient take-out kitchen for cozy at-home dining. “We want everyone to feel welcome,” says Rick, curating an inclusive environment by considering small details that enhance everyone’s experience, from accessibility aids like weighted cutlery and double-handled cups to visual-only menus. They prioritize well-trained staff who celebrate the joy of others, aiming to ensure that “people feel better leaving than they did when they arrived,” says Rick.
Whether dining in or taking out, the commitment to freshness and high-quality ingredients is unwavering, sourcing seafood, hand cut steak and vegetables daily from local suppliers. With a team of passionate chefs and servers, they have kept the same Italian inspired menu for 15 to 20 years. “Everyone has fav dishes – why mess with that success,” Rick explains, aiming to preserve community nostalgia while incorporating new tastes through their daily lunch and dinner features.
“Giving back is important because people give so much to us”
Michelle and Rick pride themselves on their deep community involvement, viewing it as integral to their success, saying “It’s all about human connections and building relationships with people.” Their involvement ranges from sponsoring youth sports teams and contributing to local charity events, including donating leftover soups to the Lighthouse Shelter and raising $3,000 and a trunk load of food for the Orangeville Foodbank in 2023. Rick emphasizes their values of “doing a little bit for a lot of people,” reflecting their commitment to the community that supports them.
As the Bluebird Cafe and Grill continues to enrich the community with quality experiences, Rick emphasizes their ongoing commitment to growth and improvement, stating they will “Continue to build here and never rest on our morals.” Through collaborations with other downtown businesses, they hope to showcase Orangeville’s hospitality to tourists and highlight what makes Dufferin County life special. Having built strong community connections by maintaining a warm and inviting atmosphere, Rick and Michelle aim to continue “Making people feel they are a part of our home, the Bluebird.”