Cafe Kittyhawk

WINTER HOURS: Thursday 10am-8pm, Friday and Saturday 10am-9pm

About Café Kittyhawk

Our Story

Our story might officially begin in 2020, but our roots run much deeper. Born and raised on the shores of Georgian Bay, our family has always been a part of the community fabric.

You might recognize Michael McIntaggart (pictured right), a seasoned entrepreneur and master barber behind the successful History Barbershop. In the midst of the 2020 lockdowns, Mike, along with his brother Justin, decided to channel their ingenuity and passion for food and beverage into opening a café in the heart of Penetanguishene!

Both brothers have extensive experience in the industry, having worked locally at some favorites of the past (Mick B's + Mad Michael's) as well as out West, in Banff + Victoria!

We took over the beloved space once known as Larder & Pantry, a local favorite established by the talented chef, André. Our mission is to continue the tradition of excellence and community spirit, offering a warm, inviting space for everyone to enjoy.

Our Name

What's in a name?

Orville Wright, one of the famed Wright brothers known for their groundbreaking work in aviation, spent 30 summers on southern Georgian Bay, becoming a cherished figure in Midland and Penetanguishene.

During his time here, Wright developed a love for motorboating and in 1931, purchased a stunning 32-foot mahogany cruiser from the Gidley Boat Company, which he named Kittyhawk after the historic airplane he and his brother flew in 1903. This elegant and fast boat became a local legend, much like its owner. Wright's presence was eagerly anticipated by locals each spring, but his idyllic summers were cut short when he was called to Washington during World War II.

Our cafe, Café Kittyhawk, is named in honor of Orville Wright's beloved boat, celebrating his legacy and the deep connection he had with the area. The name also pays tribute to the bond between the Wright brothers, whose pioneering spirit continues to inspire.

We are Family!

Welcome to our family business, where every member plays a unique and integral role. At the helm is Michael, the owner, whose vision and leadership guide our journey -- his handy man skills certainly have a place in our forever changing space. His wife, Denise, expertly manages administration and social media, ensuring smooth operations and a vibrant online presence. Michael's brother, Justin, is now out west, in Victoria, but lends a hand on tech support, and other operations done from afar. Our parents, Debbie and Ben, are the heart and soul of our plant and centerpiece creations. With their decades of experience and artistic touch, they transform simple elements into stunning displays.

Our team of cooks and baristas may not be connected by blood, but they truly form a family through their unwavering commitment and shared passion for excellence. They play a crucial role in our business, and together, we go beyond being just a company. We are a family devoted to bringing excellence and warmth into every aspect of what we do.

Locally Owned & Operated for 4 years

Supporting other local businesses is a cornerstone of our philosophy at Cafe Kittyhawk. We collaborate with nearby suppliers, artisans, and vendors to create a vibrant ecosystem that benefits everyone involved. By fostering these partnerships, we aim to strengthen our community's economic and social fabric, making us all stronger together.