Out of the norm, I had a Dine Out lunch at Joe Fortes. It's offering two courses for $13.95 - a combination any two of appetizer, entree and dessert. Remembering my terrible Dine Out experience several years ago, I've given the restaurant more than one try to redeem itself. And I just gave it another shot with a lunch.
On Food
Instead of ordering a set of Dine Out each, my friend and I did something innovative - we ordered one set of Dine Out plus a half dozen fresh oysters. First, we ordered Kusshi and Kumamoto oysters. They were fresh and tasty. Then came the pasta. The sauce was very creamy and lots of bay scallops and rock prawns (found the prawns a bit too small though). The creme brulee was pretty good, although I'd prefer it to be firmer. Now it's too liquidy..
On Presentation
For whatever reason, I found its presentation a bit mediocre. I've been to Joe Fortes for dinner and brunch before and I've seen better plating. I'd say the dessert was well-plated, but the pasta....honestly, any restaurant can do that..
On Environment
It's a nice restaurant, I must say. And it's big too, with a second floor. I wish they would have a pianist on a Saturday afternoon so I could enjoy some live music.
On View
Looking out the window, you'll get a glimpse of the Robson scene.
On Service
I was quite satisfied with the service. Walking into the restaurant, I wasn't expecting that they would let us order only one set of Dine Out - I thought every diner at the table would order a Dine Out - but they let us do it so it was off to a good start. Overall the server was very attentive. I ordered a coffee and she came back to refill it when it's getting close to the last drop. And she's very good at accommodating to our share-plate idea. She remembered to change the plates in between the courses.
Joe Fortes Seafood & Chop House
Food: 8.5
Presentation: 8
Environment: 8
View: 7
Service: 8.5
Overall: 8
Photos
Entree: Rock Prawn & Bay Scallop Pasta - dill cream sauce
Dessert: Vanilla Crème Brûlée - caramel sauce
Fresh oysters on the side. Kumamoto = top half; Kusshi = bottom half.
