Ella’s

A Piece of 1000 Islands History with Every Meal

Ella’s on the Bay sits on one of the most historically significant spots in the Thousand Islands region. This charming restaurant overlooks the picturesque bay with breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River and Brockville beyond. Most importantly, diners enjoy fresh cuisine in an elegant setting—whether inside the warm dining room or on the expanded outdoor deck that captures the water’s beauty.

From Colonial Home to Modern Restaurant

The land beneath Ella’s tells a remarkable story spanning over two centuries. Because Colonel David Ford was commissioned by Governor Morris to explore the area in 1804, he became so enchanted that he relocated here in 1808 and built the first residence in the Village. This homestead became a witness to major historical moments. Therefore, when the USS Julia and HMS Moria clashed during the War of 1812, the Ford family had a front-row seat to the naval battle from their property.

In addition to military history, the site hosted notable visitors. President James Monroe stayed with the Ford family during his 1817 tour of Northern New York. Besides that, the home served as Morristown’s first schoolhouse in 1818, with George Couper teaching students until a permanent stone school was built in the early 1820s.

A Century of Hospitality

By 1908, the three-story Comstock Inn rose on this exact location. Guests paid just $2.00 daily for modern amenities like electric lights and steam heat—luxuries that attracted tourists traveling by train to experience the St. Lawrence River’s natural splendor. Over the decades, various businesses operated on the site, from a Mobil station to Cattleman’s Restaurant.

The Modern Era of Ella’s

In November 2014, James T. and Joan Phillips acquired the former Cattleman’s space. He embarked on months of careful renovation, upgrading the kitchen and doubling the deck’s size. The restaurant’s name honors his late mother, Ella May, whose devotion to nourishing loved ones and ensuring their comfort inspired the vision.

Ella’s opened on May 20, 2015, becoming a gathering place where staff treats each meal with family-like care. As a result, the view remains as stunning as when Colonel Ford first claimed this land over 200 years ago—a timeless backdrop for fresh food and unforgettable moments.