Janet Lynn's Bistro — Restaurant in Kitchener

My husband and I went here for Halloween supper with our newborn daughter. Despite spending a small fortune, the food far surpassed the ambiance and service. Over the phone we made a reservation for two plus buggy. We thought we would have a date night to celebrate our daughter's two month mark but things took an unexpected turn.

The table at the front of the restaurant where we were seated was cold and drafty. I kept my winter coat on the entire time and left my daughter bundled up also. I asked the hostess/owner politely if the heat could be turned up or if we could be reseated elsewhere. Even my husband, who is not one to complain about cold, felt chilled. Over the phone we were told that we would be seated at the back of the bistro. The hostess proceeded to fumble with the baseboard heaters but then stated that they were already on maximum heat. We remained seated uncomfortably at that table for the duration of our meal.

While waiting for our appetizer to arrive, it dawned upon me that the wetness beneath my boots that I assumed was from the outdoors (mommy brain) was actually discards from previous patrons. I looked down to find a greasy mess of oil and what appeared to be meat. I ended up taking a baby wipe to my boots. For a restaurant of this calibre and especially during COVID, dining areas should be fully sanitized and maintained between guests.

Additionally, we were not impressed to learn that the table beside us had leftover bread after several refills while we were told they were out. We did arrive later on in the evening, but still an alternative could have been offered.

What saddened me the most is how unwelcome we felt when our daughter began crying. The hostess/owner (Monica) quickly approached and offered to push our daughter in her buggy at the front of the restaurant. I sensed her annoyance despite the seemingly kind gesture. I felt it was a subtle invitation to leave. While we try to prepare as much as possible for dining out, some crying spells are inevitable with babies. We tried everything in our control to calm her, but the pressure from the hostess only made things worse as did the cold dining area. We ended up taking our meals to go. I understand some restaurants are more family-friendly than others, but we have dined out at other establishments without complications. One would think that people would be more considerate given that: 1) COVID essentially has the world in shambles and we all could use a little kindness and understanding, 2) babysitting (if parents consider it an option) is off the table because of concerns about the virus spreading, and 3) patrons of local businesses are generous in offering up their support in spite of pay cuts...

Our visit to Janet Lynn's was, in a word, superb! By adding a few additional words I will say that our expectations were exceeded; and they were pretty high to begin with.

The environment was clean, tastefully decorated, and thoughtfully arranged.

Our Server was prompt, easy going, knowledgeable, and attentive in the just the right way.

The food for our party of three was brought at the same time by additional Staff so we could begin eating at the same time; a thoughtful touch not often seen.

I started with a "Winter Salad." It was delightful! Featuring organic greens, grilled pear, fresh clementine, black garlic dressing, toasted walnuts, and shaved pecorino cheese, it pretty much covered all the bases. Lovely.

Next, I tried the JLB Burger. I often have a burger when I visit a new place because I'm a burger guy and because you can tell much from how a burger is prepared and presented (there's really no where for a patty to hide). It was delicious!! The patty was cooked to perfection (no pink for me please); moist and so tasty. This excellent sandwich was adorned with; house smoked bacon, caramelized onions, white cheddar, roasted garlic aioli, lettuce tomato, pickles, hand-cut frites, served on a freshly baked sesame seed brioche bun. 'Nuff said.

I gave in to dessert when I heard our Server say, "Vanilla Cheesecake", and, "Creme Anglaise." Spectacular!

No, I did not tally up the calories. However, this was a meal that I'll talk about for a while. I will also endeavour to return -...

First experience in a dine in restaurant after lockdown.

Wonderful experience.

I had a wonderful dry cider, which was a great choice. Quenched my thirst before and during the meal.

The calamari was perfect with the provided aioli dip. Lightly coated and a great texture: not rubbery at all. The greens had a balsamic vinaigrette, and with a hint of sesame.

The homemade bread had a thick crust which I layered butter on, and consumed heartedly.

The main courses were a lamb burger and Thai chicken. Both were delightful.

The lamb burger had a homemade bun, and I could tell. It was just the right density for the lamb. I ordered the meat medium rare, and was not disappointed. The tzatziki sauce had a great flavour, and the lamb wasn't gamey at all. Lots of wonderful thick doubled fried (maybe triple fried) frites accompanied the burger. It was the perfect amount of food.

The Thai chicken was full of flavour. The mushrooms and carrots were a great accent to the curry. The green beans were a delight. Crunchy and juicy. The rice was as expected, but did not disappoint. The chicken breast was moist, and still juicy, not dry in any way. The curry was a bit creamy and elevated all the above ingredients into a quality food experience.

The service was fantastic (mind you were we the only patrons in the dining room).

I am already planning on going back to try the octopus as an appetizer, and the JBL...