Boleskine Bistro

Address: 400 Boleskine Road
Phone: (778) 265-7745
Website: http://www.boleskinebistro.ca/
Price: ~$12 for a main
Notes: Something for everyone, huge portions, great prices and a little bit of Indian fare

I've popped by to the Boleskine Bistro a few times since their opening almost a year ago. Although the space has a bit of a utilitarian feel to it (although I can't quite put my finger on why...) and the menus could use a little polishing (in both the proof reading and design department...) the overall experience seems to be solid! They have plenty of specials, and lots of space for larger groups or private events.

The restaurant is located of in the semi-industrial, semi-residential dead zone in between Uptown and Tillicum, so a great spot for lunch or dinner after some intensive shopping. I cannot for the life of me remember what was in the location prior to the opening, but I think it is the first food establishment to operate in the location. The room is L shaped, with windows on two sides and a small bar area next to the kitchen. The decor is modern, with dark wood tables, beige walls and light tiles.

As always, I have a little bit of a pedantic rant about the over-use of the word 'bistro' as a synonym for 'restaurant.' If you're like me and think a bistro serves quick meals that are kind of european inspired then this isn't that - this is a pub style menu without the pub, serving a wide variety of hamburgers and sandwiches as well as classic mains and appetizers. They also cater to diners who need a fully gluten free menu, and are one of the few places that serves gluten free fries in Victoria! The menu sizes are generous for the price, and the service was quick and friendly.

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Food:
February 10, 2014

Shepherds Pie

This was my partner-in-food-and-life's choice. It was meaty and filling, well spiced and came with a nice side salad and plenty of dressing options. For $12 it was a great deal! The combination of ground lamb and beef made it nice and savoury, and I am certain the potatoes on top were from scratch - which is great to see!

Pakoras

I ordered these as my main, despite being on the appetizer list, after seeing a friend order them and fries the last time and being overwhelmed with the amount! They were very, very good - hot, fresh and flavourful. Even if they halved the portion size and charged a dollar less I would think it was a good deal! In the end my p.i.f.a.l. and I shared both of our meals 50/50 because as delicious as they were... perhaps not the healthiest of choices as my main caloric intake of the day! 

Lemon Meringue

Since we had split an appy and a main we opted for dessert - a nice slice of lemon meringue with a very healthy meringue on top! The drizzle made it a bit sweet for my taste, but it was still a satisfying end to a good meal.

Service:
February 10, 2014
We came for a late dinner, so there weren't many people in the restaurant, but they were helpful and accommodating, but not overly attentive!