West 81 FoodCo, — Restaurant in Huron-Kinloss

We celebrated our wedding anniversary yesterday evening at West 81 and everything far exceeded our expectations. Tucked away in Point Clark, we were met with a cozy atmosphere, greeted by a waiter that that was friendly, knowledgeable and easy to talk to, and presented with a diverse menu that had a unique blend of all our favourite Italian and Mediterranean style dishes.

Despite that they closed at 8pm, we enjoyed a four course meal and at no point were we made to feel rushed. At one point we were the only customers in the building and our waiter played our wedding song knowing that it was our anniversary, truly going the extra mile. The food was phenomenal, each dish with a personal touch, perfected over years and years in the culinary industry. Of note, the escargot, was our favourite, served in a garlic butter, white wine, lemon and parsley bath. The consistency was extraordinary. We finished our evening with the creme brulee which was on the house, and the owner Paulas homemade hot apple cider.

I cannot stress enough how fantastic it was to enjoy a fine dining experience, close to home. Despite not having their liqour license, our glasses were never empty. Our waiter, Sasha, tended to us well, delicately balancing the need to check in, while also giving us space to enjoy our meal and time together. Thank you West 81 for the fantastic experience, you’re our new favourite restaurant and we will be back...

I was excited to try West 81 because I know Chef Ricardo is one of the best chefs around. On first entry the vibe was quaint and cozy. The white chairs and tables are a fresh look. Paula greeted us at the door with a warm welcome and seated us in the front by the windows. We were gifted the pleasure of having Sasha as our server, his passion and knowledge of the details in how the food is prepared all the way to why Chef Ricardo uses the ingredients he does is such an added value. We shared the grilled octopus which was done to perfection without any chewiness, cheesy garlic bread sticks, and duck skewers which were also the special that night and so tender.. I had Spaghetti frutti di mare, which had three huge juicy shrimp and filled with clams.  We ended the meal with sharing the carrot cake, which has the most delectablly light icing. The thought and care in Chef Ricardos presentation, the quality of food, and marrying of flavors is so well executed. Although they do not have liquor license yet, the experience and flavourful food we enjoyed superceded any need we had for alcohol.  I can't wait to go back and try the rest of the menu....

It pains me to leave this review about West 81, but I think it's about time that this is said. The inconsistent hours and service are killing this restaurant.

I love this restaurant, every time I went to this restaurant in it's first year of operation were great. Food was always on point and great service. A little expensive but hey, it's a boutique restaurant and everything is expensive these days.

Now 4/5 times I try to go here I'm unable to be served. Either they're closed for some unknown reason, have no reservations available or for some reason are sold out of whatever food I was looking to order.

The last straw was a couple of weeks ago I was getting back to my local home after a long shift. I called to grab some take out and the person who answered the phone said "sorry, we're not doing take out today". Like, give me a break, just wanted to get a burger to go, not looking for a reso for a 3 course meal. But no flexibility on this decision, it was going to be Ramen for dinner tonight.

I've been a loyal customer since this spot opened, but now I'm just not going to bother, need to find a usual spot that's a bit...