Nestled on a grassy rise in the heart of Headwaters country, where Mono and Mulmur meet, lies a piece of history transformed. Once a humble one-room schoolhouse—Mulmur Township School Section 2—it is now the elegant Mrs. Mitchell’s Restaurant, a testament to both the past and present, and now, to 45 years of dedicated service.

The restaurant, named after the school’s last teacher, who closed its doors in 1968, exudes old-world charm. Timeless wood, exposed brick, and a warm, inviting atmosphere have replaced the chalkboards and desks of yesteryear. Today, elegantly dressed tables welcome patrons seeking a refined yet comfortable dining experience, all while celebrating a significant milestone.

Opened in 1980 by Jim and Maureen Baufeldt, Mrs. Mitchell’s has become a beloved local institution, now proudly celebrating its 45th year in business. Their daughter, Heidi Baufeldt, who grew up within the restaurant’s walls, now carries on her parents’ legacy, focusing on “fine dining with casual elegance and historic charm.”

“From an early age, I learned from my parents what it takes to run a business and about the hard work and high standards that keep people coming back,” Heidi shared on social media. “Mrs. Mitchell’s is much more than a business to me—I grew up here. And now, to celebrate 45 years is a true honor.”

Maureen, the “heart and soul” of the restaurant for over 30 years, passed away in 2011, leaving Heidi to take the helm. She continues to honor her mother’s dedication, maintaining the restaurant’s reputation for exceptional service while evolving the menu with seasonal delights. The 45th anniversary provides the perfect opportunity to reflect on the legacy Maureen created and that Heidi continues. 

Heidi remains devoted to preserving her mother’s vision, ensuring that the warm welcome and exceptional standards Maureen established continue to define Mrs. Mitchell’s—especially during this milestone year.

The menu at Mrs. Mitchell’s offers a delightful blend of traditional and modern Canadian cuisine, each dish crafted with care. Signature items like the handcrafted smoked wild mushroom soup and the vibrant mixed greens salad, featuring locally sourced ingredients, are perennial favorites. The restaurant also bottles its popular creamy garlic and balsamic vinaigrette dressings, allowing patrons to savor a taste of Mrs. Mitchell’s at home—and to take home a piece of the 45-year celebration.

The Baufeldt family’s commitment to preserving the schoolhouse’s history is evident in every detail. They learned its rich story directly from Mrs. Mitchell herself, understanding the building’s role in the community’s survival through two World Wars and the Great Depression. The Orange Lodge across the road, now home to “Granny Taught Us How,” further adds to the historic charm of the hamlet of Violet Hill. Now, the celebration of 45 years adds another layer to that history.

“We hope you’ll feel as though you’re taking a vacation from the 21st century as you dine at Mrs. Mitchell’s Restaurant,” the restaurant’s website states. “From our huge open fireplace and antique furnishings to the outdoor patio, we serve up an authentic experience from a simpler time. And now, we invite you to celebrate 45 years of that experience with us.”

Mrs. Mitchell’s Restaurant stands as evidence of the enduring power of history, family, good food, and longevity. It is a place where the past and present seamlessly blend, offering a unique and unforgettable dining experience—especially as they celebrate 45 years of serving the Mulmur community and beyond.