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Went for the Winterlicious menu, and was very glad I did. Atmosphere was warm, formal. White tablecloths, waiters in aprons and vests. Crumb sweepers. I found all of this to be friendly and accessible, and the service was punctual and pleasant, but a little perfunctory* (see bottom) at times.
Our party of four covered almost every dish on the list, except for the chevre parfait for dessert. Soup was the stand out starter, with a lovely, rich-flavoured broth and perfectly poached egg. The smoked salmon was tender and melted in your mouth. Spinach salad was competent, but not entirely memorable.
Mains were all very good, but I liked my pork chop the best, and it came with a very tasty sweet potato puree and braised cabbage. Pot au feu had a tender short rib and dashi broth that I sopped up with bread.
Sticky date pudding for dessert was one of my favourite things. A very moist pudding/cake with candied ginger and warm sauce poured on top. The sauce was so luxurious that I could have had a bowl of sauce and I probably would have been happy.
*I really couldn't find too much fault, but I took off a half point for atmosphere. I know it is Winterlicious, and they are trying to get many tables through. Service was very quick, and efficient, but at times I felt as though it was a bit of a factory atmosphere -- process the clients in the fastest (although polite) manner. This wouldn't stop me from going back, and although I wouldn't make this my weekly neighbourhood stop, a once in a while might be nice. I think it would be interesting to explore the outer reaches of the regular menu.
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