Despite the good food - we were extremely disappointed with the Chef/Owner’s lack of acknowledgement and care to his customers.
We are a group coming from Montreal, and we come to Stratford every September. Each visit we go out for dinner on the Friday and Saturday night. Elizabeth came highly recommended for the food and we made our reservation in April. The day before we arrived, we were told that we would be sitting at the bar and that they could not give us a table for six. We called and were told they could not give us a table despite the fact that we made the reservation months earlier. Given that we were informed of this on such short notice, we were unable to make a reservation anywhere else as every other restaurant was fully booked.
We went to Elizabeth and shared our frustration with not being given a table, especially as there were 2 tables of six set. The server apologized and said that it was because we booked through Resy. When we asked if there might be anything that could be done, she said that she would speak to the owner/chef. We sat at the bar and the service and food were excellent, but we were not able to communicate easily as a group. The chef is visible and at no point acknowledged us or came over. At the end of the meal, when the bill came, we asked again if there could be any compensation … Again, she said she would ask the owner, but he shot us a look and then ignored us.
Being the owner and chef this feels very surprising. Had he come over for 45 seconds right at the beginning and acknowledged our disappointment for the seating and offered us some sourdough bread or a small appetizer to share, we would have been very appreciative. A small gesture of acknowledgement would have made all the difference and yet we walked away, feeling that he does not care and his priority is definitely not customer relations.
In Montreal, and when traveling, I aspire to eat locally and support local chefs, and businesses. In my experience, the owners or chefs, prioritize customer relations, and personal service and that is the aspect that always leaves me raving about a place and recommending restaurants to family and friends. The chef/owner of Elizabeth not only did not acknowledge our disappointment but was visibly rude and dismissive of our concern.
It’s a shame, because I think he’s a good chef and makes good food, but I would never go back and I would never...
Read moreTried this quaint restaurant after a matinee play. Strongly recommend having reservations as wait time was about 2 to 2.5 hrs. on a Saturday evening. Chef Brian and his staff provided an excellent dining experience we will highly recommend to others! Everyone was greeted immediately when they came through the door. The dining concept is to order several things from the menu, to share at the table, so that everyone can have a little taste of everything. We started with a couple of warm bread platters with garlic parmesian butter and literally could have eaten just that all evening; absolutely delicious! Our group also shared a salted beet entree, octopus, meatballs, three types of bread pudding, honey butter chicken, fried cauliflower and the feature entree of a double pattie smash burger and fries. In delivering each entree the wait staff took the time to explain what each plate consisted of. The presentation of each plate was very professional and enticing. While each plate was not accompanied by the typical potato and vegetables, every entree had its own special garnish, from pommegranite seeds, spring mix or sprouts to fruit pieces, all to enhance the flavour of the main item. The atmosphere was very comfortable, with tables for dining as well as a small bar to sit up at for the coctail special of the evening. And Chef Brians personal music playlist selection was perfect to add to the ambience. We look forward to returning to Elizabeth. in the future. Thanks Chef and Gentlemen staff, for...
Read moreFor our wedding anniversary, my husband and I decided to celebrate with dinner at Elizabeth, and it was an experience we won’t soon forget. From the moment we walked in, the warm, intimate atmosphere made it feel like the perfect place for a special occasion.
We started with the duck fat potatoes, which were perfectly crispy and indulgent, followed by the Wagyu meatballs—tender, flavourful, and absolutely delicious. The butter chicken wings were a standout, with the perfect balance of spice and richness. Every bite felt like it had been crafted with care and attention to detail.
And then, there was the espresso martini. I still dream about it! Silky smooth, with just the right amount of sweetness and a bold espresso kick—it was the best I’ve ever had.
The service was exceptional, with a staff that was both knowledgeable and welcoming, making the evening feel extra special. Every dish was beautifully presented, and the flavours were perfectly balanced, showcasing the restaurant’s dedication to quality ingredients and expert preparation.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable dining experience in Stratford, whether for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, Elizabeth is an absolute must-visit. We’ll...
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