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| - A few of us went out last week to try out the newly established Blake House. It turned out it was the grand opening, so it was jam packed -- sadly there was no room for us on the patio.
The inside is gorgeous, lots of dark wood finishes. For some reason I had it in my head before I went that it was going to be just a typical, grubby pub. I was definitely wrong! The place has a classy atmosphere, and as Kat mentioned, even "chic." However, it's still relaxed enough that casual dress is just fine.
It took some time for a server to come by our table, I think there was a bit of a mix up between the server and the host. I was impressed by the selection on the drink menu. There was lots to choose from, some interesting cocktails, martinis and even frozen drinks. Drink orders were taken and unfortunately they were out of the pinot grigio I wanted. I told the waitress any white was fine, just nothing sweet, and she said she would bring a Chardonnay. It ended up being a little too sweet for my liking, and -- ick -- tasted very floral. Partly my fault, I should have asked to see the wine menu. For drink number two I opted for a beer, since they had a pretty ample selection. I tried a Kronenbourg, and success! Officially my new favourite beer.
The menu had a pretty good selection too, lots of variety -- everything from poutine to some sort of samosa shepherd's pie. This isn't really my thing when it comes to going out to dine; I prefer to go where the resto focuses mostly on a specific type or ethnicity of food. BUT if you're going out with a group of people who can't agree on what they want, The Blake House will solve your worries. I didn't order anything though (I had eaten beforehand, expecting traditional greasy pub fare).
I found the prices to be a little steep, and like Kat said they didn't allow "grown-ups" to order from the children's menu. Sometimes a gal just wants a snack-size portion! I did try some of Karl's "Oooey Gooey Toffee Pudding"; it was tasty, but not not particularly gooey (or ooey, for that matter).
I agree with Chris that this place has a few bugs to work out, but once they do it could be a pretty cool spot.
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