Checked out Cardinal Rule for dinner with a friend. She has gluten allergies so we're always on the hunt for places that can accommodate. That's the good thing about Cardinal Rule - their menu offers selections for vegetarians, vegans and gluten allergic.
The first thing I noticed when I walked in was the cool painted argyle pattern on the wall...love the teal and black colour combo.
I ordered the veggie panini ($7) and soup of the day which was parsnip pear ($5). My friend ordered the mango cold rolls ($4) and the small noodle bowl ($6) with a glass of shiraz ($7).
My sandwich was good but very run of the mill - vegetables with goat cheese and pesto on a thin hamburger bun similar to the ones you can get at Loblaws. The soup was decent - a simple puree of pear with a hint of parsnip and a bit on the lukewarm side. The panini didn't come with a side or a garnish which I found somewhat offensive.
My friend's noodle bowl was a generous helping of soba noodles accompanied with a few sprigs of baby bok choi. Mango rolls were decent.
Service was very friendly and food came in an appropriate amount of time. I did notice that the restaurant smelled a bit like old lady potpourri and the scent of cigarette smoke wafted in but no one was smoking in the dining room.
Could be a fun place for drinks and/or brunch but I would probably pass on coming back for food. 2.5 stars all around.