Barnsteiner's is a frequent participant in Toronto's Winterlicious and Summerlicious events. I'm guessing this is one of the reasons why their ratings are so much lower than they deserve to be. My experience, entirely outside of these two events, couldn't be more different.
I've been to Barnsteiner's several times due to its proximity from my place of work, and I've received nothing but excellent food and spectacular service. The interior is tastefully decorated and very much in line with the upper-class, Yonge/St. Clair neighbourhood. The wait staff is attentive and very friendly, which is a great change of pace from their counterparts from similar, upscale restaurants in the area.
I've tried the Bavarian Mac-and-Cheese as well as the Potato Gnocchi and both are phenomenal. I've heard great things about the Mushroom Risotto, and that's probably what I'll be trying the next time I'm around.
Don't let the Winterlicious crowd skew your expectations. Barnsteiner's is a gem.