To sum this restaurant experience up in one word is really easy since only one comes to mind when describing all the aspects of this dinner: outdated. From the decor to the service (although it was phenomenal) and especially to the food, the locale hold true to its well implanted roots on Toronto’s dining scene.
Located in the center of the city (just a block or two north of the Eaton Center) the interior of this gloomy and windowless building is decorated with dark, flowery wallpaper complimenting the pitch black wall to wall carpeting and its way-too-dim lights. Its history and fame attracts the stuffiest of business men and the strangest variety of tourists making the atmosphere even more uncomfortable. The waiters are exceptional at presenting the guest with classic service, waiting on you almost hand and foot, however, they’re constantly rushing to flip tables.
For dinner we split the Chateaubriand for two ($90) which was a phenomenally well cooked piece of meat (at least some redemption for the restaurant). It was carved at the table by our waiter and therefore made for an even more exciting meal. The sides for the meat were very outdated and unappealing (although good perfectly) showcasing steamed asparagus, a PIPED rossette of squash puree (who pipes purees anymore?!!?), fries, etc. Desserts we didn’t even bother trying since their quality and taste were very predictable from their unappealing descriptions (apple pie, new york cheesecake, etc). One thing that they didn’t really lack was a hefty selection of wines. Their cellar allows for a 20 page wine list and prices ranging from 60 to 5000 per bottle.
Overall, I’m very glad to have experienced such a piece of Toronto’s food history but it’ll definitely not be a place I return or recommend.