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| - Went here with a couple of my girlfriends, one of whom had dined here before about a month ago. First of all, she's not exactly a foodie and second, she's not a big red meat eater however she kept raving about their Braised Beef Short Rib. I'll get to that shortly.
We went on a weeknight so the place was empty, though we heard that Thursday night is one of their busier nights with live entertainment. Although we were one of very few tables, the service was still very friendly. We had a server named Sheantelle whose knowledge of the menu item were impressive. She also shared with us her top picks. The bartender was also very knowledgeable and honest as a friend of mine was wanting a drink with less sugar and was asking for any kind of alternative. He was honest and explained to her that with that particular drink, it would be impossible. Coming from the hospitality industry and having dined at 4 and 5 star restaurants, we appreciated this feedback. The service alone I'd rate 5/5. Now, come the food reviews.
**Update** Went here last night and Cameron served us. He was the only server last night since it's a slower night. Although there were more walk-ins that came in later in the evening, Cameron was able to tackle the floor. After a mix-up with our Shrimp Platter order, he was completely understanding and still left a positive vibe for the unfortunate incident (shrimps were undercooked and cold). My rating of 5/5 for the service still stands.
[Appetizers & Sides]
Jerk Chicken Poutine - One of the best I've ever had and I try to stay away from potatoes due to the sugar levels but I couldn't resist. If I had died from a diabetic coma after this poutine, I'd die happy. Normally when it comes to poutine, I'm all about the cheese curds and the gravy. This had neither. They used white and yellow cheddar melted with a spicy chicken gravy and of course, jerk chicken. The jerk chicken was perfectly seasoned and I'm guessing it was grilled (to perfection). I'd go back just for this poutine. Although listed as an app, the portion was more like a meal portion. Definitely something I'd recommend if you're just feeling peckish and are wanting to try something a little different. 5/5
Callaloo Dip - Pretty much a new favourite at RD. First off, where else will you be able to have dip with callaloo? On top of the delicious appetizer, it was accompanied by tortilla chips and fried naan which was amazing especially when it comes out so fresh. Four of us shared the dip and even had a some dip leftover so Cameron was generous enough to bring us some extra fried naan. I'd personally go back for this dip. 5/5.
Fried Plantain - A staple side for any Caribbean restaurant. Although the presentation was very nice, was really nothing spectacular. The slices were thin, though, nicely fried. I prefer the slices to be a bit thicker and even on its own (ie. minus the rum butter sauce). 3.5/5.
[Entree]
Lobster Mac & Cheese - I was personally expecting chunks of lobster baked in with the Mac & Cheese but you actually get a lobster tail. Wasn't the biggest tail size and the Mac & Cheese itself was nothing spectacular, though, we still enjoyed this dish. Paying $21 may be a little too much but it's acceptable. 4.5/5.
Braised Beef Short Ribs - As with my friend, red meat is not my first pick but because she herself kept raving about it as well as our server, we had to try it and I am very happy that we did. The Flintstones sized portion was slow braised to perfection that the meat literally fell off the bone and melted in your mouth. It also had just enough fat, though, it was still quite lean. I'm sure if I was able to see it in its raw state, it probably would've had a nice marble look to it. Not only was it perfectly braised but it was also braised in rum and molasses. The entree was also served with a large serving of sweet potato mash and grilled vegetables. All of which were also nicely cooked. They were also simple yet flavourful. The portion size is definitely worth $21 if not more. 5/5.
Southern Fried Chicken Supreme Breast (aka Chicken & Waffles) - Now, I'm a big fan of chicken and waffles. One of my go-to spots in L.A. is actually Roscoe's Chicken & Waffles. But seeing as RD is obviously a higher scale than Roscoe's, it'll be a little different. The difference is that the chicken was breaded but more with bread crumbs. The meat was white meat which was quite juicy. The breading also had a nice crisp to it. However, the chicken itself lacked a little bit of flavor but then the spicy maple syrup complimented it quite nicely. The waffle was freshly made and was light and quite airy. The dish also came with a side of vegetables. The portion of the chicken was pretty small and personally, I didn't feel that the price was worth it (even though I was treated for the night). 3.5/5.
I will definitely be coming back here and this may very well be one of my new go to spots out in the East end.
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