I decided to write up a recent meal we had at the Keg Mansion. I know, I realize it's not an AYCE, but I thought I'd add it anyways. Food is food and if you are spending a pretty penny on a nice meal, you should know what to expect right? The "Keg Mansion" is an old house that has transformed into a restaurant. The outside seems to be under quite a constructional mess, so getting into the parking lot can be a bit of a commotion especially since it sits right on the corner of Church and Wellesley.
We came here on a spontaneous notion after a long week at work and we were trying to find the most opportune time to spend the two Keg gift certificates for $50 we had been given at Christmas. As soon as you walk in the front doors, you immediately feel welcome by greeters and then once your eyes can adjust to the dark lighting inside, you look around you to see the decor which is luxurious with high ceilings, leather chairs, golden ornaments and lavish chandeliers that drop down to view. There's also a real fireplace in the front parlour, lit of course which adds a nice touch and warms the room. The menus were all separated. Now, this is real elitist dining when you are asking to see the 'wine list' or the 'dessert menu'!
We ordered from the Keg's classics menu. My partner had the 12 oz sirloin steak and I had the prime rib (cooked to medium rare). For $38.00 each plus tax. This came with a salad, warm bread, and that's about it. Literally. My prime rib was very boring, and plain, with lots of fat and the occasional bit of gristle. My partner enjoyed the sirloin steak, but with words like 'okay and fine' I get the feeling he wasn't blown away. I had the keg fries as a side order (which tasted a lot like Burger King), and a spring mix salad which tasted very very much like onion. The dessert (from a different menu) was worth the meal. It was a warm brownie, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream drizzled with caramel and chocolate sauce....Oh did I mention they totally had me at chocolate?
After the meal we "toured" the mansion. Would I come back with a gift certificate? Yes. Without one, no. That pretty much sums up my views about a la carte dining. I much prefer the AYCEs! :)
Overall rating: 7.0/10.
