I finally gave the Lakeview another chance. I showed up at 4am-ish, to avoid the crowds. The chocolate milkshake was the BEST milkshake I have ever had in my life. And I have had many a milkshake.
I was pleasantly surprised to find out that they make their poutine with vegetarian (mushroom based) gravy. At the time, I thought the only problem was that they needed to make sure the gravy was heated up to a temperature that would make the cheese melt properly when poured onto the fries. I later spoke with another vegetarian friend who told me that he had asked his waiter there to look at the ingredients of the gravy they use.
I was unpleasantly surprised to hear that it actually contains animal fat. Way to go Lakeview. I take back anything good I said about the poutine.
The Lakeview just might be the place for late night snacking, but they seem to be running an amateur operation. I continue to meet folks at area bars and restaurants, and they all say that the food just isn't up to par.
And what's with all the menus smelling TOXIC??? Is it the paper they're printed on?