Silver Birch is a welcome addition to Washago - the space is cozy, the staff are polite, and it’s clear they’re aiming to bring elevated dining to the area. We had a reservation and were seated in the front room, which was quiet and comfortable - chairs were great, temperature was perfect, and the overall atmosphere made for a relaxed evening.
A nice bonus: they allow BYOB wine with a $20 corkage fee, which we found very reasonable and appreciated the option.
We started with the Caesar salad, which had us hopeful given the description of a house-made anchovy‑garlic dressing. Unfortunately, it fell flat - no bold garlic or anchovy flavour, and the dressing tasted identical to store-bought (likely Renee’s). The croutons also tasted pre-packaged, like the kind that comes in a bagged salad kit. It felt a bit misleading based on the menu description.
For mains: • I ordered the special pasta of the day (shrimp, scallops, green onions, cream‑based sauce). The seafood was cooked well and the portion was fair, but the flavour was underwhelming - it needed more seasoning, acidity, or depth to really come together.
• My father had the Rigatoni Bolognese, which was a much stronger dish - hearty, rich, and full of flavour.
• My mother had the Tetrazzine - baked pasta with chicken and mushrooms in a cream sauce. It was rich and comforting, and she enjoyed it.
Overall, the portions were satisfying, and the service was warm enough. But for the menu to live up to its descriptions, we’d love to see:
• A true house-made Caesar dressing that’s bold and fresh
• Improved croutons or fresh-baked ones for texture and quality
• More attention to seasoning and flavour development, especially in specials
We’re rooting for Silver Birch and hope they continue to refine their dishes - there’s a lot of potential here, and we’re glad to have new dining options in town. With a few adjustments, it could become a...
Read moreSilver Birch Restaurant in Washago, Ontario, is a delightful dining establishment that has recently undergone renovations, making it a standout choice in the area. With its renewed ambiance, good food, and top-notch services, I wholeheartedly recommend it to both locals and visitors alike.
The restaurant's newly renovated interior exudes a welcoming and modern atmosphere. It strikes the perfect balance between chic and cozy, making it an ideal setting for various occasions, from casual dinners to special celebrations.
Now, let's talk about the food. The menu at Silver Birch offers a diverse range of options to cater to various tastes. From classic comfort food to more adventurous dishes, there's something for everyone. The quality of ingredients and skillful preparation are evident in every bite. I was particularly impressed with their fresh seafood offerings and succulent steaks.
Service at Silver Birch is attentive and friendly. The staff goes above and beyond to ensure a memorable dining experience. They are knowledgeable about the menu, providing helpful recommendations and accommodating special requests with a smile.
In conclusion, Silver Birch Restaurant in Washago, Ontario, has successfully reinvented itself with its recent renovations. The combination of an inviting atmosphere, delicious cuisine, and exceptional service makes it a must-visit. Whether you're a local looking for a new favorite spot or a traveler passing through, I highly recommend giving Silver Birch a try. You won't be...
Read moreCulinary gem in an unexpected place. Tucked into the village hub in Washago this classy new facade, 2 tiered patio, upscale interior and passionate ownership is a definite "going back again." We went by motorcycle for our anniversary. I felt comfortable in a black tshirt on the patio. Somehow my wife transitioned from riding gear to lovely dress in a flash... Our chicken and beef medallions were both visually beautiful and tasted delicious. Well thought out wine list. ( I drink rum, so that is second hand info ;) 2 minutes off Hwy 11 at 169. 20 minutes North of Orillia and South of Gravenhurst. Call for reservations on Casino nights was our hosts wise recommendation. In season several ingredients and herbs are grown on site -- great touch. ** I don't write this for money or out of boredom. I only take a minute to help others narrow down the multitude of choices out there. If my 5 star is different than yours, I sincerely apologize. It's VERY much my experience that MY energy and efforts to be kind and polite do improve interactions. Truly, if I have a sub par interaction, I won't "Review" for the world. Be brave and tell the owners there is an issue in a timely fashion. One little casual 3 Star from you might not seem a big deal, but to a fledgling or small business they can really roadblock them as they try to...
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