Last night, Chad and I left Grace in the very capable hands of my sister and headed out for dinner. We picked a local restaurant that I like. I was keen to go there as they had just finished a long over due renovation and I wanted to see the decor and the new menu.
Well the decor was definitely an improvement, but I really understood what my brother in law and sister meant when they talk about unresolved concepts in design. It looked pretty good, trying to mix the age of the building with modern touches but parts of it just didn't work, or were "almost right", but didn't quite go together.
The new menu seemed to show that the direction now was more everyday food. Gone were the scallops, duck and such, replaced with more bistro fare Nothing wrong with that, but given the prices were still $35 for mains level, I assumed a gourmet twist. I was wrong.
I ordered the squid rings for entree. The waitress asked if I wanted the entree before my main.....ummm, yeah, I'm wacky like that.
When they arrived, I knew we were in trouble. A hush went around the tables near us as I was presented with the dish. I had no idea what to say, let alone how to tackle eating it. In all my life, I've never seen squid rings presented like that.
The rest of the meal was equally confusing and a bit disappointing. Steak was clearly a cheap cut, very fatty and not the quality I'd expect at $37.
And as for dessert, well Chad had their "famous" truffle. Presentation was very basic and taste a bit bland. And my creme burlee, it came with shortbread?!?! I still can't figure out why.
The staff were sweet but a bit bumbling. Mains came while we were still eating entrees and no cutlery. Who ordered which steak got confused and coffee got forgotten. All forgivable and I'm sure they'll get the kinks sorted as the new staff settle in.
Finally the new name. Growing up, I knew the restaurant as either The Prospect or Picton Street. They changed the name to GBS last reno, but food was great so I excused them for that. This time they have gone with the odd name of The Good Home. Again, I get what they are trying to do, create a home away from home, but surely they could have come up with a better name that leveraged the past of the place. But that's the marketer in me coming out.
Always disappointing when a favourite place loses it's way. Hope they hire back their old chef and an interior designer to refine the new look.
My summary, go to The Good Home for basic pub food, well meaning service, and a pretty nice atmosphere. But don't expect the tasty fare of the past.
Score: 6.5/10
