I recently “did lunch” with a number of my friends in and around the Comox Valley. They picked some of their favourite places; I provided a simple “luncheon review” form; we ate lunch, made notes, and rated from 1 (unacceptable) to 5 (excellent). Of the 6 restaurants we toured, 4 are reviewed here. Please note that receiving a “3″ on any item means that the restaurant experience was hitting “parr” here – and would likely be considered “good” or “excellent” in most (all?) other communities in BC. We are fortunate in this region: for it’s size, it’s a high-standard dining town.
Orange chocolate mousse at Bisque
Bisque: This is a favourite of a friend of mine and her mother-in-law. It’s easy to see – and taste – why: an intimate, unpretentious space with delicious daily specials. My prawns stuffed with escargot on a Caesar salad was unique and tasty. Our dessert – Orange chocolate mousse – was outstanding. Lunch for two: $45
Atmosphere/Ambiance: 3
Service: 4.5
Quality of Food: 4.5
Value for $: 4
Total overall rating: 4
The Kingfisher Dining Room
Great dining room. Wonderful place to relax over lunch. This was the first time I’d eaten here in quite some time. I’m going back, because my “Gartley Point Tower” deserves a repeat experience. Like dessert? I recommend the butternut squash cheesecake. Lunch for two, with one beverage: $60
Atmosphere/Ambiance: 5
Service: 4
Quality of Food: 5
Quality of Beverages: 3
Value for $: 3
Total overall score: 4
Linguini Arrabbiata & a slice of mushroom pizza at TOTO
TOTO: It’s kind of tucked away even though it’s on Comox Ave across from Simon’s Cycles – and worth looking for. Daily lunch pizza specials are tasty and light on the crust, heavy on things like mushrooms, cheese. I loved the spiciness of my linguini Arrabbiata. A personal visit from the chef impressed my luncheon date. Lunch for two: $35
Atmosphere/Ambiance: 4
Service: 4.5
Quality of Food: 4.5
Value for $: 4.5
Total overall: 4.5
Monte Christo & bubbly at Avenue Bistro
Avenue Bistro: I’m a regular here, and usually choose the pesto papparadelle. This time, however, it was my date’s dish that spoke about what AveB is getting known for: surprisingly deep flavours. She had the beet and squash ravioli with goat cheese. A simple dish, but stunningly dressed. Lunch specials are always good and well-priced, and the dense, dark chocolate mousse (shared) was a fitting cap to the meal. Lunch for two with two beverages: $60
Atmosphere/Ambiance: 4.5
Service: 4.5
Quality of Food: 5
Quality of Beverages: 4.5
Value for $: 3.5
Total overall: 4.5
Caveat: I’m not a “food critic.” I’m a “food reviewer.” I write and talk publicly about restaurants and meals that I like. When something isn’t working, I let the owner or manager know in private. If I’ve reviewed a restaurant it’s because I feel confident in recommending it. Having said that, every restaurant has it’s bad days, and some places won’t suit all tastes.
