Dirty Oar Public House — Restaurant in Innisfil

Disappointing Experience at Dirty Oar Public House – Especially for Families We had lunch today at the Dirty Oar Public House in Friday Harbour, and while we came in optimistic, the experience—especially concerning the kids' meal—was extremely disappointing.

To start on a positive note, the adults in our group found the food to be decent. Nothing remarkable, but overall good. Unfortunately, what happened with the children’s meal was shocking for an establishment of this caliber.

Our kids were hoping for macaroni and cheese, which wasn’t on the kids' menu. Since we were told there was no brisket available that day, we asked our server if they could make a plain mac and cheese (without the brisket). She checked with the kitchen and came back saying it was fine.

However, when the meals arrived, the kids took one bite and immediately started gasping for water—it was spicy! We tasted it ourselves and were surprised to find the mac and cheese had a real kick to it. Clearly not kid-friendly, especially when we specifically asked for a plain version. We set the dish aside and waited to inform our server, but she didn’t come back until everyone had already finished eating. At that point, she apologized and offered to bring something else, but it was too late—everyone was done.

Then came the final blow. When reviewing the bill, we were shocked to see that we were charged $28 for the brisket mac and cheese—even though it didn’t contain brisket and wasn’t eaten. We raised the issue with the waitress, who simply said, “I know, but it was on the menu.” When we asked to speak with a manager, he echoed the same dismissive attitude. Only after some back-and-forth did he agree to remove the charge.

This experience was extremely disappointing and honestly felt like a case of taking advantage. Between the lack of accountability, poor communication, and refusal to proactively correct an obvious issue, we left feeling frustrated and unwelcome.

We will not be returning, and we would caution other families—especially those with young children—to think twice before dining here. This is not how customers...

We had the privilege of hosting a client lunch at The Dirty Oar in Friday Harbour and it was a world-class experience from start to finish.

First off, the service. Our group threw a curveball when a client ordered a Ramos Gin Fizz (for those uninitiated, it’s a drink so notoriously finicky that most bartenders would politely steer you elsewhere.)

Not Daniel.

He leaned into the challenge, shook that thing like his life depended on it, and delivered a flawless cocktail that became a talking point at the table.

That level of care does not go unnoticed.

Meanwhile, Maddy, Xavier, and Adam struck the perfect balance of attentiveness without intrusion.

Drinks refreshed before we noticed, special requests handled with ease, and a genuine warmth that made our clients feel not just looked after, but valued.

And then, partway through, Manager Sarah came by to personally check in—something small on paper, but in practice, it made the afternoon feel bespoke and intentional.

And the food? Outstanding. The Halibut & Chips was fried to golden perfection, the batter crisp but light, giving way to halibut that flaked at the touch of a fork. The Steak Frites could have held its own at any Toronto steakhouse—AAA striploin cooked with precision, paired with a velvety brandy peppercorn sauce. And the Truffle Mushroom Pizza was the sleeper hit: earthy, aromatic, and indulgent without being heavy.

Each dish came out hot, plated beautifully, and executed exactly as described.

Beyond the table, the free underground parking took any logistical friction out of the day, and the scenic marina views at Friday Harbour provided a backdrop that elevated the mood.

There’s something about watching sailboats and yachts drift by that makes business conversations flow a little easier.

All told, The Dirty Oar gave us not just a meal, but a moment—a polished, memorable experience that reflected well on us as hosts. We’ll absolutely be back for more client events and team gatherings.

Thank you, Daniel, Maddy, Xavier, Adam, and Sarah, for making a stressful business lunch...

The worste experience I have ever had.

I will start by saying the first time I went here was great fast service good food. So I tried it again. This time it Took about half hour to just get water... and everything else. Thought it was a one off, so I tried it again.

This time was the worste experience I have ever had at any restaurant. I will nevr go back. And judging by other reviews things will not change. I went in with 4 people yesterday, there are to employees at the front, we said hello. And then there was an awkward pause so I said "can we just go inside? One of the employees just gave me a look and said noo... do you have a reservation?(with attitude) This whole thing already felt way off to me , I don't no why we received this kind of attitude and service right off the bat? We then we're seated on the patio becuase we were not a big enough group to sit inside... The sun was blazing in our eyes and there was no umbrella as they were used for other tables. We then asked for water and again took a ridiculous amount of time just to get water. Waited longer... and I could see there were 2 tables not in use in the shade. And we asked do you mind if we switch to the table over there. Again the older lady with blonde hair at the front who gave us the awkward beginning just said no.... shaking her head. That's it. I literally couldn't belive it. After that we asked for more water since we are sweltering in the sun. And again took a VERY long time just to get water... As we were leaving, thoose 2 tables still were not filled and there was ABSOLUTELY no reason we couldn't of took one of thoose tables. The least you can do is make sure we have water if you are sitting us in direct sunlight. The whole experience was just awful. From the attitude to the lack of service. I will never be going back. I have never wanted to just get up and leave so bad. But I already ordered food and didn't want to be that person. Even tho this restaurant does not...