The Heart of Carnarvon
The Mill Pond
The Mill Pond Restaurant, located north of the HWY 35 & 118 intersection, has been a cornerstone of the Haliburton Highlands community for over three decades.
Owned and operated by Brad Archer, with support from his girlfriend Kim Switzer, the family-style restaurant has become a beloved gathering place for locals and visitors alike.
Deep roots and Family Tradition
Brad Archer’s connection to the Haliburton Highlands runs deep. His great-grandfather purchased property on Boshkung Lake in 1920 and established the Matabanick Inn. “The Haliburton Highlands is my hometown,” says Archer. “My uncle still owns and operates the Matabanick Inn today. It’s been in operation for over 100 years.” With such a rich family history in the area, it’s no surprise that Brad chose to keep the tradition alive by purchasing The Mill Pond Restaurant 32 years ago.
The Mill Pond Restaurant is more than just a place to eat; it’s a hub for the community. “We get groups that come in all the time. Church groups, local clubs—they all come here to meet and eat,”
Food Prep
Adapting to Changing Times
Over the years, Brad has maintained the restaurant’s family-style charm while adapting to changing times. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he installed a takeout window, a move that was met with overwhelming support from the local community. “We were supported greatly by locals during that time. That window is still in operation, and there’s tons of people still using it,”
Brad notes. More recently, The Mill Pond underwent a significant renovation after winning ACM Designs’ Restaurant Makeover Contest. “They did a really good job of keeping our family-style sense, our homey, cottagy feel,” Brad says. “It was a nice boost to bring us into the future.”
Importance of Community Support
Community support has been integral to The Mill Pond’s success. “There was a lot of people who voted for us,” Brad says, referring to the contest that led to the restaurant’s renovation. “It was very humbling to know that all those people supported us and wanted to see us continue on.”
“It’s nice to be able to have a gathering place where people can enjoy their meals in a friendly environment.” This sense of community is something Brad takes great pride in. “It gives you a sense of community to be there. People are always talking, and you know what’s going on around.”
Seating area
Local Partnerships & Local Success
The Mill Pond’s commitment to the local community extends beyond its customers. Brad is proud to source much of the restaurant’s supplies locally. “I do most of my meat shopping at Coneybeare’s Butcher Shop in Minden and I’ve always dealt with Kawartha Dairy,” he shares.
This close-knit relationship with local businesses is part of what makes operating in a small community so rewarding. “Everybody kind of knows everybody. They all say, ‘Hey, Brad,’ and it’s just a simple back and forth,” Brad explains.
Commintment to Tradition and the Future
Looking to the future, Brad’s goals for The Mill Pond are simple: “To keep it sustainable, to keep it open, to keep people coming in.” The restaurant has seen generations of families pass through its doors, and Brad hopes to continue that tradition. “It’s generational, and that’s nice to see,” he says. “It would be nice to keep that going.”
Brad Archer’s story is one of dedication, community, and tradition. The Mill Pond Restaurant is not just a place to eat; it’s a testament to the enduring spirit of the Haliburton Highlands and the people who call it home.
The Kitchen
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Brad & Kim
Food cooking
Gravy & Fries
Special Sign
Take Out Window
Historical Memories
Food Prep
the Mill Pond
Seating area