Frank and Linda Trichilo have lived in Terrace Bay their entire lives. On April 1, 2000, they purchased Drifters Motel and Restaurant. It was formerly known as the Imperial Hotel. They’ve worked side-by-side for over 20 years creating the business. Drifters is now a lively hub in Terrace Bay, offering fuel, great food and lodging.
Ashley Trichilo is the daughter-in-law of Frank and Linda, managing the daily operations along side her husband Michael Trichilo.
The property needed serious updating when the family took over. The gas bar, lobby, rooms, bar and restaurant have all be renovated and updated.
“This has all been a gradual process,” Ashley explains, “and we are trying to stay current with our patrons wants and needs.”
Ashley credits Linda for the success of their restaurant.
“We pride ourselves on doing a lot of homemade stuff. My mother-in-law is the brains behind all that.”
Frank and Linda’s Italian background motivates them to create appetizing cuisine for their guests.
"From our chicken parm, gnocchi and panzerotti’s, these are just a few items that are made in house.”
Drifters offers daily lunch features they create themselves, and their homemade soup is made fresh every day.
“Being able to bring these culinary traditions to our community by sharing these dishes is nothing short of extraordinary.” Ashley notes the ‘Blush’ sauce as a unique menu option loved by locals.
“I would recommend the gnocchi with blush sauce. Linda makes her sauce from scratch and it’s a must have! We call it ‘Blush’ because it’s a mixture of our tomato sauce and Alfredo.”
Their pizza offerings are also a local favourite.
“I’d recommend our meaty MJ Pizza, it’s always a hit. We also do an all-dressed pizza that is loaded with vegetables and meat, it’s always a favourite.”
Drifters also offers tantalizing appetizers that pair nicely with the local brews.
“We like to have local breweries on tap here so my suggestion would be a Lakeside on tap paired with our potato cheese balls or a Northern Logger and our deep friend ravioli.”
In recent years they’ve collaborated with Thunder Bay's Sleeping Giant Brewery and Kenora's Lake of the Woods Brewing Company. They are currently in the works of collaborating with Slate Island Brewing Company, located in Terrace Bay.
Drifter's offers beautiful views of Lake Superior and is perfectly located to take in the enchanting natural wonder of Terrace Bay. The Aguasabon Falls, the Casque Isles trail and Terrace Bay Beach are all nearby. Visitors can recharge at the Motel and Restaurant while enjoying the convenience of the Simcoe Plaza nearby. There are also electric car chargers on the plaza to accommodate customers who operate electric vehicles.
The Trichilos are proud of their community and everything Terrace Bay has to offer. Drifters is always participating in local events and promoting local attractions like the Lighthouse Festival in August and the Waasaashkaa Surfing event. Drifters is the popular choice for hosting staff events for other local businesses and groups.
Ashley notes that Frank and Linda were always entrepreneurs at heart.
“They wanted to take hold of a business and opportunity that suited their lifestyle. They always dreamed of serving the community, while also contributing to its success.”
Drifters keeps a rustic contemporary theme. Their rooms have been gradually modernized and updated. “We just recently renovated two more rooms and we’re going to continue doing so. It’s an ongoing process.” Notes Ashley.
“We’re really proud to be serving the community of Terrace Bay.”
Ashley credits her close family and talented staff for Drifters ongoing success.
“We’re a family and we work hard. We appreciate our staff; we really value them. They’ve really stuck with us through thick and thin.”
The Trichilos are committed to making Drifters Motel and Restaurant a welcoming space for visitors and locals in the region. Terrace Bay is a hidden gem along the North shore of Lake Superior with great hiking trails and stunning views. For your next staycation, consider a weekend exploring Terrace Bay.
“We’re really proud to be serving the community of Terrace Bay.” Ashley credits her close family and talented staff for Drifters ongoing success.
