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| - Why am I reviewing a chain like Jack Astor's, you ask? Because I'm not just reviewing any Jack's...I'm reviewing the NEW 2016 Jack's!
I've been a devout Jack Astor's fan for years. I'd give the old Jack's a 3/5 - it's a lively space with plenty of different options on the menu, making it a good choice for dates, family outings and get-togethers with friends. It's not the best food I've ever eaten, but it's decent. The new menu that I was presented on Sunday, however, has bumped them up to a solid 4/5 - a full day has passed, and I'm still thinking about my meal!
THE GOOD:
- I visited the location outside the Scarborough Town Centre. This location was recently renovated, and it shows - it's still got the same JA look and feel, but the space at the entrance is much bigger and there are wider rows between tables.
- Let's talk about the menu: W-O-W. Am I at JA or La Carnita? To my surprise (and great delight), JA now has beef, chicken and shrimp tacos! I went with the shrimp tacos, and while not quite as tasty as Grand Electric or La Carnita, they came pretty damn close. I was super impressed. For under $12 a pop, I'm going to be tempted to order these everytime I visit.
- For dessert, my girlfriend and I shared an order of donut holes. These came in a basket with powdered sugar, small wooden forks and three dips: caramel, a berry-flavoured one, and a chocolate dip with Baileys. They were like warm, spongy bundles of joy...I'm salivating just thinking about them.
- I also want to note that I always get great service at JA. They know how to hire people who are funny, personable and charming, which really is the cherry on top of an awesome dining experience.
THE BAD:
- Unfortunately, with change comes sacrifice, and that includes my favourite Jack Astor's menu item of all time: the Spinach, Artichoke and Goat Cheese Dip. It looks like I'll have to hit up Pinterest and make this at home myself... *tear*
All in all, it seems that the executives at Jack Astor's are making some wise choices with regards to their recent menu revamp. I highly, highly recommend you check out the new 2016 Jack Astor's for yourself!
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