China Town Restaurant & Lounge
Variety: Chinese
Address: 381 Bedford Highway
Date Visited: Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Orders: China Town Soo Gai/Chicken Fried Rice/Egg Roll & Beef & Broccoli/Chicken Fried Rice/Egg Roll, side of Sweet & Sour Chicken to share
Taste: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Portion Size: 9 + 9 = 18/20
Presentation: 8 + 9 = 17/20
Value: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Service: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Bonus: 1
Minus: -
Final Grade: 84% (Good)
(Scoring: 100% to 140% = Exceptional, 85% to 99% = Excellent, 67% to 84% = Good, 60% to 66% = Satisfactory, 50% to 59% = Marginal, 0% to 49% = Poor, -40% to -1% = Abysmal)
Notes: We recently moved off of the peninsula, so we decided to include non-peninsular restaurants in our reviews. On the way home, we stopped into China Town on the Bedford Highway (T had never been there before). Our three previous experiences in reviewing Chinese restaurants were met with decent yet unspectacular (Silver Dragon, Mr. Chang's) or less than stellar (Jean's) scores, but we had higher hopes for this place. The first thing that we noticed was the spectacular view of the Beford Basin (hence the bonus point). It added a wonderful ambiance. As for the meal itself, it tasted pretty fresh, there seemed to be some form of curry added to the egg roll batter which was surprisingly nice, and the rice did NOT taste burnt! One minor complaint was that some of the sweet & sour chicken balls had a bit too much batter, but overall, it was a solid experience, and we anticipate a return visit or two in the foreseeable future.
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Review #26 - Taj Mahal
Taj Mahal
Variety: Indian
Address: 5175 South Street
Date Visited: Saturday, October 15, 2011
Orders: Samosas, Pakoras, Butter Chicken, Chicken Korma, Naan, Rice
Taste: 10 + 10 = 20/20
Portion Size: 3 + 3 = 6/20
Presentation: 9 + 9 = 18/20
Value: 5 + 5 = 10/20
Service: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Bonus: -
Minus: -
Final Grade: 70% (Good)
(Scoring: 100% to 140% = Exceptional, 85% to 99% = Excellent, 67% to 84% = Good, 60% to 66% = Satisfactory, 50% to 59% = Marginal, 0% to 49% = Poor, -40% to -1% = Abysmal)
Notes: We brought a fellow Indian food lover along with us for our first trip to Taj Mahal. Unfortunately, it will probably be our last visit unless we someday win the lottery. Let's be clear here: all of the dishes tasted excellent. What left a bitter taste in our mouths was the cost and the portion size. The samosas and pakoras were very tasty and there was enough there to share, but the mains came in bowls with barely a small fistful of food in each - there wasn't really enough to feed the three of us, and we all left kinda hungry. At almost $30/person (all of the above plus a single glass of the cheapest wine on the menu, plus tax and a 15% gratuity came just over $87), that shouldn't happen. If it weren't for a Team Buy voucher, we'd probably still be there washing dishes out back. Although the quality and taste of the food were both very good, the cost is just too high and the quantity far too low to merit a return visit to this restaurant, which is a real shame, as this was only the second restaurant to earn a 10/10 from each of us on the Taste scale.
Variety: Indian
Address: 5175 South Street
Date Visited: Saturday, October 15, 2011
Orders: Samosas, Pakoras, Butter Chicken, Chicken Korma, Naan, Rice
Taste: 10 + 10 = 20/20
Portion Size: 3 + 3 = 6/20
Presentation: 9 + 9 = 18/20
Value: 5 + 5 = 10/20
Service: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Bonus: -
Minus: -
Final Grade: 70% (Good)
(Scoring: 100% to 140% = Exceptional, 85% to 99% = Excellent, 67% to 84% = Good, 60% to 66% = Satisfactory, 50% to 59% = Marginal, 0% to 49% = Poor, -40% to -1% = Abysmal)
Notes: We brought a fellow Indian food lover along with us for our first trip to Taj Mahal. Unfortunately, it will probably be our last visit unless we someday win the lottery. Let's be clear here: all of the dishes tasted excellent. What left a bitter taste in our mouths was the cost and the portion size. The samosas and pakoras were very tasty and there was enough there to share, but the mains came in bowls with barely a small fistful of food in each - there wasn't really enough to feed the three of us, and we all left kinda hungry. At almost $30/person (all of the above plus a single glass of the cheapest wine on the menu, plus tax and a 15% gratuity came just over $87), that shouldn't happen. If it weren't for a Team Buy voucher, we'd probably still be there washing dishes out back. Although the quality and taste of the food were both very good, the cost is just too high and the quantity far too low to merit a return visit to this restaurant, which is a real shame, as this was only the second restaurant to earn a 10/10 from each of us on the Taste scale.
Friday, September 30, 2011
Review #25 - Silver Dragon Restaurant
Silver Dragon Restaurant
Variety: Chinese
Address: 2827 Robie Street
Date Visited: Thursday, September 15, 2011
Orders: Combo #12 (Ginger Beef, Szechuan Chicken, Chicken Fried Rice) & Combo #10 (Sweet & Sour Chicken, Beef & Broccoli, Chicken Fried Rice)
Taste: 7 + 7 = 14/20
Portion Size: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Presentation: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Value: 7 + 8 = 15/20
Service: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Bonus: -
Minus: -
Final Grade: 77% (Good)
(Scoring: 100% to 140% = Exceptional, 85% to 99% = Excellent, 67% to 84% = Good, 60% to 66% = Satisfactory, 50% to 59% = Marginal, 0% to 49% = Poor, -40% to -1% = Abysmal)
Notes: Nothing particularly special, but decent Canadian Chinese food. The Szechuan Chicken was a little watery and the oil used to cook the Chicken Fried Rice could stand to be changed, but everything else was good.
Variety: Chinese
Address: 2827 Robie Street
Date Visited: Thursday, September 15, 2011
Orders: Combo #12 (Ginger Beef, Szechuan Chicken, Chicken Fried Rice) & Combo #10 (Sweet & Sour Chicken, Beef & Broccoli, Chicken Fried Rice)
Taste: 7 + 7 = 14/20
Portion Size: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Presentation: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Value: 7 + 8 = 15/20
Service: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Bonus: -
Minus: -
Final Grade: 77% (Good)
(Scoring: 100% to 140% = Exceptional, 85% to 99% = Excellent, 67% to 84% = Good, 60% to 66% = Satisfactory, 50% to 59% = Marginal, 0% to 49% = Poor, -40% to -1% = Abysmal)
Notes: Nothing particularly special, but decent Canadian Chinese food. The Szechuan Chicken was a little watery and the oil used to cook the Chicken Fried Rice could stand to be changed, but everything else was good.
Monday, September 12, 2011
Review #24 - Kemptster's Cookhouse & Eatery
Kemptster's Cookhouse & Eatery
Variety: Diner
Address: 3644 Kempt Road
Date Visited: Sunday, September 11, 2011
Orders: Bacon Cheese Chicken Grill Sandwich, KCH All-Day Breakfast
Taste: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Portion Size: 9 + 9 = 18/20
Presentation: 8 + 4 = 12/20
Value: 8 + 9 = 17/20
Service: 7 + 6 = 13/20
Bonus: -
Minus: -4
Final Grade: 72% (Good)
(Scoring: 100% to 140% = Exceptional, 85% to 99% = Excellent, 67% to 84% = Good, 60% to 66% = Satisfactory, 50% to 59% = Marginal, 0% to 49% = Poor, -40% to -1% = Abysmal)
Notes: This dining experience would have been one of our better ones, had it not been for the toast. Not even kidding. T wasn't feeling particularly good that evening and wanted some comfort food, so the KCH All-Day Breakfast was the logical choice (though it ended up being far from comforting). J was more in the mood for a sandwich, and the Bacon Cheese Chicken Grill with garlic pepper mayo also sounded right on the mark. When the meals arrived, the latter was pretty much bang-on (with the exception of the mayo, which looked a little past its prime). It tasted good, looked good, and was just about the right amount of food. The breakfast, on the other hand, was not up to snuff. The eggs were not over easy, and the toast was all but burnt. We asked the server for another order of toast and she went off to place the order...but didn't get around to it until we reminded her five minutes later. By that point, the eggs were cold, so we sheepishly asked for more of those, too. When the new food arrived a few minutes later, the toast was exactly the same. We felt terribly embarrassed having to order again, but seriously, it was black. We realize that it wasn't the server's fault, but although she was apologetic to us, we clearly heard her tell the cook a few seconds later: "I don't know what they're talking about, it doesn't look burnt to me." We felt partially vindicated as her co-worker walked past and said: "It does to me." To be fair, we weren't charged for the breakfast, so she did make the effort to make it right. But the talking behind our backs and poor attention to detail has us questioning whether we'll return to Kemptster's. Which, really, is too bad, because that chicken sandwich was pretty good!
Variety: Diner
Address: 3644 Kempt Road
Date Visited: Sunday, September 11, 2011
Orders: Bacon Cheese Chicken Grill Sandwich, KCH All-Day Breakfast
Taste: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Portion Size: 9 + 9 = 18/20
Presentation: 8 + 4 = 12/20
Value: 8 + 9 = 17/20
Service: 7 + 6 = 13/20
Bonus: -
Minus: -4
Final Grade: 72% (Good)
(Scoring: 100% to 140% = Exceptional, 85% to 99% = Excellent, 67% to 84% = Good, 60% to 66% = Satisfactory, 50% to 59% = Marginal, 0% to 49% = Poor, -40% to -1% = Abysmal)
Notes: This dining experience would have been one of our better ones, had it not been for the toast. Not even kidding. T wasn't feeling particularly good that evening and wanted some comfort food, so the KCH All-Day Breakfast was the logical choice (though it ended up being far from comforting). J was more in the mood for a sandwich, and the Bacon Cheese Chicken Grill with garlic pepper mayo also sounded right on the mark. When the meals arrived, the latter was pretty much bang-on (with the exception of the mayo, which looked a little past its prime). It tasted good, looked good, and was just about the right amount of food. The breakfast, on the other hand, was not up to snuff. The eggs were not over easy, and the toast was all but burnt. We asked the server for another order of toast and she went off to place the order...but didn't get around to it until we reminded her five minutes later. By that point, the eggs were cold, so we sheepishly asked for more of those, too. When the new food arrived a few minutes later, the toast was exactly the same. We felt terribly embarrassed having to order again, but seriously, it was black. We realize that it wasn't the server's fault, but although she was apologetic to us, we clearly heard her tell the cook a few seconds later: "I don't know what they're talking about, it doesn't look burnt to me." We felt partially vindicated as her co-worker walked past and said: "It does to me." To be fair, we weren't charged for the breakfast, so she did make the effort to make it right. But the talking behind our backs and poor attention to detail has us questioning whether we'll return to Kemptster's. Which, really, is too bad, because that chicken sandwich was pretty good!
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Review #23 - Waterfront Warehouse
Waterfront Warehouse
Variety: Seafood
Address: 1549 Lower Water Street
Date Visited: Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Orders: Warm Roasted Chicken Mushroom Salads
Taste: 7 + 8 = 15/20
Portion Size: 7 + 8 = 15/20
Presentation: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Value: 7 + 7 = 14/20
Service: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Bonus: -
Minus: -2
Final Grade: 74% (Good)
(Scoring: 100% to 140% = Exceptional, 85% to 99% = Excellent, 67% to 84% = Good, 60% to 66% = Satisfactory, 50% to 59% = Marginal, 0% to 49% = Poor, -40% to -1% = Abysmal)
Notes: This isn't the most favourable review of the Waterfront Warehouse, and in a way, it's not really their fault. You see, J doesn't like seafood, and T is allergic to it. Although their website claims that "This is the place for simply sensational seafood in Halifax," we didn't know that this this going in - we'd never been there before, and had been invited by a relative who we hadn't seen in years, so we didn't have any input in the venue selection. That being said, it's really not fair to have have so few non-seafood items on the menu - three salads, one appetizer (escargot - yuck) and a $36 steak. So, there really wasn't much for us to choose from. We both went with the Warm Roasted Chicken Mushroom Salad (sans mushrooms for J, who also begged for a side of fries to compensate). They were decent, but really weren't filling - if not for the fries, we would have had to head off in search of pizza afterwards. So, although it's probably heaven for those who love seafood, it just wasn't for us. Negative points for lack of non-seafood selection, and for the hordes of of flies in the restaurant.
Variety: Seafood
Address: 1549 Lower Water Street
Date Visited: Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Orders: Warm Roasted Chicken Mushroom Salads
Taste: 7 + 8 = 15/20
Portion Size: 7 + 8 = 15/20
Presentation: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Value: 7 + 7 = 14/20
Service: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Bonus: -
Minus: -2
Final Grade: 74% (Good)
(Scoring: 100% to 140% = Exceptional, 85% to 99% = Excellent, 67% to 84% = Good, 60% to 66% = Satisfactory, 50% to 59% = Marginal, 0% to 49% = Poor, -40% to -1% = Abysmal)
Notes: This isn't the most favourable review of the Waterfront Warehouse, and in a way, it's not really their fault. You see, J doesn't like seafood, and T is allergic to it. Although their website claims that "This is the place for simply sensational seafood in Halifax," we didn't know that this this going in - we'd never been there before, and had been invited by a relative who we hadn't seen in years, so we didn't have any input in the venue selection. That being said, it's really not fair to have have so few non-seafood items on the menu - three salads, one appetizer (escargot - yuck) and a $36 steak. So, there really wasn't much for us to choose from. We both went with the Warm Roasted Chicken Mushroom Salad (sans mushrooms for J, who also begged for a side of fries to compensate). They were decent, but really weren't filling - if not for the fries, we would have had to head off in search of pizza afterwards. So, although it's probably heaven for those who love seafood, it just wasn't for us. Negative points for lack of non-seafood selection, and for the hordes of of flies in the restaurant.
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Review #22 - Mexicali Rosa's
Mexicali Rosa's
Variety: Tex Mex
Address: 5472 Spring Garden Road
Date Visited: Monday, August 15, 2011
Orders: Mexican Flag, Nachos
Taste: 7 + 7 = 14/20
Portion Size: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Presentation: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Value: 7 + 8 = 15/20
Service: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Bonus: -
Minus: -
Final Grade: 77% (Good)
(Scoring: 100% to 140% = Exceptional, 85% to 99% = Excellent, 67% to 84% = Good, 60% to 66% = Satisfactory, 50% to 59% = Marginal, 0% to 49% = Poor, -40% to -1% = Abysmal)
Notes: The thing about Mexis is that it's incredib...ly average. You know what you can expect - consistent but unspectacular Tex Mex cuisine. This visit was the same as the last, which was the same as the one before that, which was the same as the one before that. Would love to see tamales added to the menu.
Variety: Tex Mex
Address: 5472 Spring Garden Road
Date Visited: Monday, August 15, 2011
Orders: Mexican Flag, Nachos
Taste: 7 + 7 = 14/20
Portion Size: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Presentation: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Value: 7 + 8 = 15/20
Service: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Bonus: -
Minus: -
Final Grade: 77% (Good)
(Scoring: 100% to 140% = Exceptional, 85% to 99% = Excellent, 67% to 84% = Good, 60% to 66% = Satisfactory, 50% to 59% = Marginal, 0% to 49% = Poor, -40% to -1% = Abysmal)
Notes: The thing about Mexis is that it's incredib...ly average. You know what you can expect - consistent but unspectacular Tex Mex cuisine. This visit was the same as the last, which was the same as the one before that, which was the same as the one before that. Would love to see tamales added to the menu.
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Review #21 - The Foggy Goggle
The Foggy Goggle Restaurant & Bar
Variety: Pub
Address: 1667 Argyle Street
Date Visited: Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Orders: Pulled Pork Sandwich and Chili Sweet Potato Soup, Busty Chicken Sandwich and Roasted Potatoes
Taste: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Portion Size: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Presentation: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Value: 7 + 8 = 15/20
Service: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Bonus: -
Minus: -1
Final Grade: 78% (Good)
(Scoring: 100% to 140% = Exceptional, 85% to 99% = Excellent, 67% to 84% = Good, 60% to 66% = Satisfactory, 50% to 59% = Marginal, 0% to 49% = Poor, -40% to -1% = Abysmal)
Notes: We were originally worried that it was going to be one of those places that looks like a pub but you actually end up leaving hungry. While the portion sizes weren't massive, the food was good and so was the service. The Chili Sweet Potato Soup was a hit. Lost a point for the swarm of fruit flies - difficult to control, for sure, but they definitely hindered the dining experience.
Variety: Pub
Address: 1667 Argyle Street
Date Visited: Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Orders: Pulled Pork Sandwich and Chili Sweet Potato Soup, Busty Chicken Sandwich and Roasted Potatoes
Taste: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Portion Size: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Presentation: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Value: 7 + 8 = 15/20
Service: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Bonus: -
Minus: -1
Final Grade: 78% (Good)
(Scoring: 100% to 140% = Exceptional, 85% to 99% = Excellent, 67% to 84% = Good, 60% to 66% = Satisfactory, 50% to 59% = Marginal, 0% to 49% = Poor, -40% to -1% = Abysmal)
Notes: We were originally worried that it was going to be one of those places that looks like a pub but you actually end up leaving hungry. While the portion sizes weren't massive, the food was good and so was the service. The Chili Sweet Potato Soup was a hit. Lost a point for the swarm of fruit flies - difficult to control, for sure, but they definitely hindered the dining experience.
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Review #20 - Lady Hammond Bar & Grill
Lady Hammond Bar & Grill
Variety: Pub
Address: 6151 Lady Hammond Road
Date Visited: Sunday, July 24, 2011
Orders: Lumberjack Breakfast, Breakfast Special
Taste: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Portion Size: 8 + 7 = 15/20
Presentation: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Value: 7 + 8 = 15/20
Service: 6 + 7 = 13/20
Bonus: -
Minus: -
Final Grade: 75% (Good)
(Scoring: 100% to 140% = Exceptional, 85% to 99% = Excellent, 67% to 84% = Good, 60% to 66% = Satisfactory, 50% to 59% = Marginal, 0% to 49% = Poor, -40% to -1% = Abysmal)
Notes: Typical breakfast fare in the Chebucto Inn's restaurant. It's pretty hard to screw up breakfast, and they didn't, though the service was a touch on the slow side.
Variety: Pub
Address: 6151 Lady Hammond Road
Date Visited: Sunday, July 24, 2011
Orders: Lumberjack Breakfast, Breakfast Special
Taste: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Portion Size: 8 + 7 = 15/20
Presentation: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Value: 7 + 8 = 15/20
Service: 6 + 7 = 13/20
Bonus: -
Minus: -
Final Grade: 75% (Good)
(Scoring: 100% to 140% = Exceptional, 85% to 99% = Excellent, 67% to 84% = Good, 60% to 66% = Satisfactory, 50% to 59% = Marginal, 0% to 49% = Poor, -40% to -1% = Abysmal)
Notes: Typical breakfast fare in the Chebucto Inn's restaurant. It's pretty hard to screw up breakfast, and they didn't, though the service was a touch on the slow side.
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Review #19 - Cafe Istanbul
Cafe Istanbul
Variety: Turkish
Address: 5986 Spring Garden Road
Date Visited: Thursday, July 7, 2011
Orders: Hellumi Wrap, Falafel Wrap
Taste: 8 + 9 = 17/20
Portion Size: 6 + 9 = 15/20
Presentation: 8 + 9 = 17/20
Value: 6 + 8 = 14/20
Service: 6 + 6 = 12/20
Bonus: -
Minus: -
Final Grade: 75% (Good)
(Scoring: 100% to 140% = Exceptional, 85% to 99% = Excellent, 67% to 84% = Good, 60% to 66% = Satisfactory, 50% to 59% = Marginal, 0% to 49% = Poor, -40% to -1% = Abysmal)
Notes: Tasty food, but the price is far too high for the portion size - it's a bad sign when you need to pick up a slice of pizza on the way back to work after lunch just to tide you over until supper. The wait staff seemed rather indifferent and slow, leaving much to be desired.
Variety: Turkish
Address: 5986 Spring Garden Road
Date Visited: Thursday, July 7, 2011
Orders: Hellumi Wrap, Falafel Wrap
Taste: 8 + 9 = 17/20
Portion Size: 6 + 9 = 15/20
Presentation: 8 + 9 = 17/20
Value: 6 + 8 = 14/20
Service: 6 + 6 = 12/20
Bonus: -
Minus: -
Final Grade: 75% (Good)
(Scoring: 100% to 140% = Exceptional, 85% to 99% = Excellent, 67% to 84% = Good, 60% to 66% = Satisfactory, 50% to 59% = Marginal, 0% to 49% = Poor, -40% to -1% = Abysmal)
Notes: Tasty food, but the price is far too high for the portion size - it's a bad sign when you need to pick up a slice of pizza on the way back to work after lunch just to tide you over until supper. The wait staff seemed rather indifferent and slow, leaving much to be desired.
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Review #18 - Il Mercato Ristorante
Il Mercato Trattoria
Variety: Italian
Address: 5650 Spring Garden Road
Date Visited: Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Orders: Orecchiette & Ravioli
Taste: 9 + 10 = 19/20
Portion Size: 10 + 9 = 19/20
Presentation: 9 + 9 = 18/20
Value: 9 + 9 = 18/20
Service: 9 + 9 = 18/20
Bonus: 1
Minus: -
Final Grade: 93% (Excellent)
(Scoring: 100% to 140% = Exceptional, 85% to 99% = Excellent, 67% to 84% = Good, 60% to 66% = Satisfactory, 50% to 59% = Marginal, 0% to 49% = Poor, -40% to -1% = Abysmal)
Notes: Fine dining restaurants often serve miniscule portions for sky high prices. However, we were pleasantly surprised to find that Il Mercato doled out an excellent portion size for the money (hence the bonus point). The Orecchiette was a little salty, but everything else was top notch and we were both very pleased with our meals.
Variety: Italian
Address: 5650 Spring Garden Road
Date Visited: Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Orders: Orecchiette & Ravioli
Taste: 9 + 10 = 19/20
Portion Size: 10 + 9 = 19/20
Presentation: 9 + 9 = 18/20
Value: 9 + 9 = 18/20
Service: 9 + 9 = 18/20
Bonus: 1
Minus: -
Final Grade: 93% (Excellent)
(Scoring: 100% to 140% = Exceptional, 85% to 99% = Excellent, 67% to 84% = Good, 60% to 66% = Satisfactory, 50% to 59% = Marginal, 0% to 49% = Poor, -40% to -1% = Abysmal)
Notes: Fine dining restaurants often serve miniscule portions for sky high prices. However, we were pleasantly surprised to find that Il Mercato doled out an excellent portion size for the money (hence the bonus point). The Orecchiette was a little salty, but everything else was top notch and we were both very pleased with our meals.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Review #17 - Rock Bottom Brewery
Rock Bottom Brewery
Variety: Pub
Address: 5686 Spring Garden Road
Date Visited: Friday, April 15, 2011
Orders: Beef, Pork & Bacon Burger, Panini Club
Taste: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Portion Size: 9 + 10 = 19/20
Presentation: 9 + 8 = 17/20
Value: 9 + 8 = 17/20
Service: 9 + 7 = 16/20
Bonus: -
Minus: -
Final Grade: 85% (Excellent)
(Scoring: 100% to 140% = Exceptional, 85% to 99% = Excellent, 67% to 84% = Good, 60% to 66% = Satisfactory, 50% to 59% = Marginal, 0% to 49% = Poor, -40% to -1% = Abysmal)
Notes: A solid meal. Wasn't sure how to grade the Beef, Pork & Bacon Burger - definitely enjoyed the principle of it, but it was really salty, and actually too big to be able to fit all of the fixings into a single bite, which was kinda annoying - having it on a soft kaiser instead of tough ciabatta might have helped. The panini was quite good, but a key condiment was omitted and it took a while to get it.
Variety: Pub
Address: 5686 Spring Garden Road
Date Visited: Friday, April 15, 2011
Orders: Beef, Pork & Bacon Burger, Panini Club
Taste: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Portion Size: 9 + 10 = 19/20
Presentation: 9 + 8 = 17/20
Value: 9 + 8 = 17/20
Service: 9 + 7 = 16/20
Bonus: -
Minus: -
Final Grade: 85% (Excellent)
(Scoring: 100% to 140% = Exceptional, 85% to 99% = Excellent, 67% to 84% = Good, 60% to 66% = Satisfactory, 50% to 59% = Marginal, 0% to 49% = Poor, -40% to -1% = Abysmal)
Notes: A solid meal. Wasn't sure how to grade the Beef, Pork & Bacon Burger - definitely enjoyed the principle of it, but it was really salty, and actually too big to be able to fit all of the fixings into a single bite, which was kinda annoying - having it on a soft kaiser instead of tough ciabatta might have helped. The panini was quite good, but a key condiment was omitted and it took a while to get it.
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Review #16 - botaniCa restaurant
botaniCa restaurant
Variety: Casual Dining
Address: 1960 Brunswick Street
Date Visited: Saturday, February 26rd, 2011
Orders: Roast Beef Dinners with baked potatoes & vegetables
Taste: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Portion Size: 6 + 6 = 12/20
Presentation: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Value: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Service: 9 + 9 = 18/20
Bonus: -
Minus: -
Final Grade: 78% (Good)
(Scoring: 100% to 140% = Exceptional, 85% to 99% = Excellent, 67% to 84% = Good, 60% to 66% = Satisfactory, 50% to 59% = Marginal, 0% to 49% = Poor, -40% to -1% = Abysmal)
Notes: This is a restaurant inside the Citadel Hotel. It was surprisingly small, and as a result, kinda intimate, which was a nice surprise. Our Roast Beef Dinners were billed as "Just like Mom used to make!" - a pretty accurate description. Not the fanciest meal in the world, and certainly a little small portion-wise than Mom would have served, but it was good and the service was quite good. A nice experience.
Variety: Casual Dining
Address: 1960 Brunswick Street
Date Visited: Saturday, February 26rd, 2011
Orders: Roast Beef Dinners with baked potatoes & vegetables
Taste: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Portion Size: 6 + 6 = 12/20
Presentation: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Value: 8 + 8 = 16/20
Service: 9 + 9 = 18/20
Bonus: -
Minus: -
Final Grade: 78% (Good)
(Scoring: 100% to 140% = Exceptional, 85% to 99% = Excellent, 67% to 84% = Good, 60% to 66% = Satisfactory, 50% to 59% = Marginal, 0% to 49% = Poor, -40% to -1% = Abysmal)
Notes: This is a restaurant inside the Citadel Hotel. It was surprisingly small, and as a result, kinda intimate, which was a nice surprise. Our Roast Beef Dinners were billed as "Just like Mom used to make!" - a pretty accurate description. Not the fanciest meal in the world, and certainly a little small portion-wise than Mom would have served, but it was good and the service was quite good. A nice experience.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Review #15 - Gatsby's Bar & Eatery
Gatsby's Bar & Eatery
Variety: Casual Dining
Address: 5675 Spring Garden Road
Date Visited: Wednesday, February 23rd, 2011
Orders: Prosciutto & Goat Cheese Pizza, Nachos & Chocolate Milk
Taste: 7 + 7 = 14/20
Portion Size: 7 + 7 = 14/20
Presentation: 7 + 7 = 14/20
Value: 6 + 6 = 12/20
Service: 4 + 4 = 8/20
Bonus: -
Minus: -3
Final Grade: 59% (Marginal)
(Scoring: 100% to 140% = Exceptional, 85% to 99% = Excellent, 67% to 84% = Good, 60% to 66% = Satisfactory, 50% to 59% = Marginal, 0% to 49% = Poor, -40% to -1% = Abysmal)
Notes: To us, casual dining does not excuse lazy and inept service (hence the three minus points). The food was ok (prosciutto + goat cheese + asparagus on a pizza worked well, and pineapple on the nachos was a nice touch), but the service was beyond bad. The chocolate milk was clearly haphazardly prepared (we're convinced that it was Nesquik mixed with the expired milk of a rabid kangaroo), and although we mentioned that we were in a bit of a hurry and promised that the food would be ready in 15 minutes (seemed reasonable, given that the restaurant wasn't busy at all), it took closer to 35 and we had to rush through the meal, then practically beg the server to not only bring the bill, but then to come back so that we could pay. We probably would have enjoyed the experience more had the service been better. Instead, just like the milk, our palate is soured toward this joint.
Variety: Casual Dining
Address: 5675 Spring Garden Road
Date Visited: Wednesday, February 23rd, 2011
Orders: Prosciutto & Goat Cheese Pizza, Nachos & Chocolate Milk
Taste: 7 + 7 = 14/20
Portion Size: 7 + 7 = 14/20
Presentation: 7 + 7 = 14/20
Value: 6 + 6 = 12/20
Service: 4 + 4 = 8/20
Bonus: -
Minus: -3
Final Grade: 59% (Marginal)
(Scoring: 100% to 140% = Exceptional, 85% to 99% = Excellent, 67% to 84% = Good, 60% to 66% = Satisfactory, 50% to 59% = Marginal, 0% to 49% = Poor, -40% to -1% = Abysmal)
Notes: To us, casual dining does not excuse lazy and inept service (hence the three minus points). The food was ok (prosciutto + goat cheese + asparagus on a pizza worked well, and pineapple on the nachos was a nice touch), but the service was beyond bad. The chocolate milk was clearly haphazardly prepared (we're convinced that it was Nesquik mixed with the expired milk of a rabid kangaroo), and although we mentioned that we were in a bit of a hurry and promised that the food would be ready in 15 minutes (seemed reasonable, given that the restaurant wasn't busy at all), it took closer to 35 and we had to rush through the meal, then practically beg the server to not only bring the bill, but then to come back so that we could pay. We probably would have enjoyed the experience more had the service been better. Instead, just like the milk, our palate is soured toward this joint.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Review #14 - It's All Greek To Me
It's All Greek To Me
Variety: Greek
Address: 6196 Quinpool Road
Date Visited: Saturday, February 12th, 2011
Orders: Spanikopita, Pastichio, Chicken Souvlaki
Taste: 8 + 9 = 17/20
Portion Size: 8 + 9 = 17/20
Presentation: 8 + 9 = 17/20
Value: 8 + 9 = 17/20
Service: 8 + 9 = 17/20
Bonus: -
Minus: -
Final Grade: 85% (Excellent)
(Scoring: 100% to 140% = Exceptional, 85% to 99% = Excellent, 67% to 84% = Good, 60% to 66% = Satisfactory, 50% to 59% = Marginal, 0% to 49% = Poor, -40% to -1% = Abysmal)
Notes: A nice experience. The spanikopita wasn't the best we've ever tasted, but the mains were great - particularly the rice, which was simple yet perfect. We recommend making a reservation, especially if you're trying to make the early evening movie at The Oxford!
Variety: Greek
Address: 6196 Quinpool Road
Date Visited: Saturday, February 12th, 2011
Orders: Spanikopita, Pastichio, Chicken Souvlaki
Taste: 8 + 9 = 17/20
Portion Size: 8 + 9 = 17/20
Presentation: 8 + 9 = 17/20
Value: 8 + 9 = 17/20
Service: 8 + 9 = 17/20
Bonus: -
Minus: -
Final Grade: 85% (Excellent)
(Scoring: 100% to 140% = Exceptional, 85% to 99% = Excellent, 67% to 84% = Good, 60% to 66% = Satisfactory, 50% to 59% = Marginal, 0% to 49% = Poor, -40% to -1% = Abysmal)
Notes: A nice experience. The spanikopita wasn't the best we've ever tasted, but the mains were great - particularly the rice, which was simple yet perfect. We recommend making a reservation, especially if you're trying to make the early evening movie at The Oxford!
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Review #13 - Argyle Bar & Grill
Argyle Bar & Grill
Variety: Casual Dining
Address: 1575 Argyle Street
Date Visited: Saturday, January 29th, 2011
Orders: Chicken Cobb Sandwich & Chicken Cashew Stir-Fry, Chocolate Explosion cake
Taste: 7 + 7 = 14/20
Portion Size: 7 + 7 = 14/20
Presentation: 7 + 7 = 14/20
Value: 5 + 6 = 11/20
Service: 4 + 5 = 9/20
Bonus: -
Minus: -
Final Grade: 62% (Satisfactory)
(Scoring: 100% to 140% = Exceptional, 85% to 99% = Excellent, 67% to 84% = Good, 60% to 66% = Satisfactory, 50% to 59% = Marginal, 0% to 49% = Poor, -40% to -1% = Abysmal)
Notes: Our worst review so far. The food was extremely average - nothing special - and the service was very poor, particularly for such a slow night with plenty of staff on-hand. While the food came out relatively quickly, the waitress never returned to refresh the drinks, left the table full of empty plates for a very long time, took forever to come back to inquire about desserts, and we had to literally go and find her to try and get our bill - she was busy talking to her friends. I doubt we'll be back anytime soon.
Variety: Casual Dining
Address: 1575 Argyle Street
Date Visited: Saturday, January 29th, 2011
Orders: Chicken Cobb Sandwich & Chicken Cashew Stir-Fry, Chocolate Explosion cake
Taste: 7 + 7 = 14/20
Portion Size: 7 + 7 = 14/20
Presentation: 7 + 7 = 14/20
Value: 5 + 6 = 11/20
Service: 4 + 5 = 9/20
Bonus: -
Minus: -
Final Grade: 62% (Satisfactory)
(Scoring: 100% to 140% = Exceptional, 85% to 99% = Excellent, 67% to 84% = Good, 60% to 66% = Satisfactory, 50% to 59% = Marginal, 0% to 49% = Poor, -40% to -1% = Abysmal)
Notes: Our worst review so far. The food was extremely average - nothing special - and the service was very poor, particularly for such a slow night with plenty of staff on-hand. While the food came out relatively quickly, the waitress never returned to refresh the drinks, left the table full of empty plates for a very long time, took forever to come back to inquire about desserts, and we had to literally go and find her to try and get our bill - she was busy talking to her friends. I doubt we'll be back anytime soon.
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