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| - When I first moved to the area in 2011, I was new to an established neighbourhood, most places have their regulars and it takes a while to feel 'welcomed and wanted' anywhere. But not here.
Doris is a bartender at this place and she is freaking AWESOME! She immediately made me feel welcomed, special and important. I sat at the bar and her service to not just me but to the others was (and still is) impeccable. I ate a meal that not only was very tasty but very satisfying. It is because of Doris and that level of service that I returned, over and over again. There are other wonderful servers and bartenders (Paul is awesome as well... Jerry is amazing at pairing your food & wines together and his level of customer service is outstanding!) and yes, like any other place, there are some who aren't always up to par but not many. I miss this place trumendously since moving to Etobicoke but return as often as I can.
Food wise - I can say with great certainty (as I have had almost everything on that menu and have made SEVERAL recommendations to newbies) the food is excellent. My favorites are: Seafood Diavalo Linguine (linguine, seafood in a rose sauce), Seafood Bowl (medley of seafood in a flavourful tomato broth over rice), Goat Cheese Salad (cashew crusted goat cheese galette - SOOO GOOD!!), Chicken Pesto Penne is also one of my favorites. The portions are very generous, often times requiring me to take home the uneaten portions. The best 'bang' for your buck are the Nachos. Even 3 of us could NOT finish the plate! Their wings are on the small side but are really delicious (get them grilled). They cook seafood and fish perfectly. Their steaks are cooked to perfections as well! I never hesitate to try their several daily specials as they rarely go wrong.
But the BEST nights are Wednesday nights: Oysters! They have freshly shucked Malpeque oysters on the half shell... and the price is very reasonable ($2/ea). So if you are a fan of raw oysters, you don't want to miss it!
Saturdays & Sundays they offer breakfast until I believe 1 pm. They have the Traditional breakfast on at half price until 11am. I absolutely LOVE their breakfasts. The Florentine omelette with a side of peameal is my go to, or the smoked salmon and cream cheese (I sometimes get goat cheese instead) on a bagel is great (but expensive). All breakfasts come with fresh fruit, small baked beans and 2 toast.
Here's the thing: yes, it can be a bit pricey, especially if you are going to drink alcohol. I will admit that I find their wine selection very poor but you can find something to go with your meal. They have a decent beer collection and of course the barstaff can whip you up your favorite drink as well. It is not the best place to come if you are on a strict budget. But if you are, they always have some specials on that are reasonable and as I said, their portions are very generous.
I love this place.
It will continue to be one of my favorite hang-outs. I love sitting at the round bar when I go alone... the people are interesting, the bar staff are great and you can always catch a game or two or three from the TVs around the place.
You will not go wrong eating at the Pump House!
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