Bardi's Steak House — Restaurant in Toronto

Went a few nights ago for a NYE dinner. No special menu/prix fixe but that was alright. We were greeted and seated promptly. Our server, an older gentleman who seemed like he didn't want to be there, took our drink order.

My girlfriend ordered a cocktail called a Last Word. A not often heard of, but simple cocktail. Without missing a beat our server said 'A what? No, we don't do weird stuff here.'. Not "I'll see if the bartender can do that' or 'Could you tell me what's in that?' Just a flat out refusal.

From there we ordered our food which came out promptly and was actually very nice, if a bit dated in it's presentation. Crab cakes with a mango salsa, a cold smoked salmon plate, and we both had the NY steak for our mains. Now, when I say dated I mean the plates could have been from a fine dining book from around 1997. The steak had just a simple plating with the meat, side and a cherry tomato and sprig of parsley for garnish. No jus, no veg.

As I looked around, I couldn't help but notice the small things that made the whole experience feel a little cheap. There's a large cabinet fixture in the middle of the restaurant, likely holding various supplies, but the handles and doors are all very worn and faded. The wood paneled wall we were seated beside had dust all in between the slats and on the sill. And, for some reason, all other tables had candles but ours had a beside lamp with an ugly shade.

On the whole, the restaurant (decor, service, food) has an air of "We've been here since 1966 and we're still here, so why improve?" And I have to say it was a little disappointing. I understand that with covid precautions and protocols, service can be interrupted or altered, but I have a strong feeling that the problems at Bardi's started...

Our second time to Bardi's and will be the last time.

Went there for lunch in October and it was pretty ok. However, today was beyond aweful. No wonder why the restaurant had only 2 tables between 12 and 2 pm including us.

I ordered exactly same thing - The Ontario steak. Funny that they do not have dish size but I did not ask since I knew it was the same with last time. BUT the steak was like half of the size from before, perhaps less than 4 oz. I ordered well done but it was 50% burnt and very dry. I had half left in the plate and was starving that I stuffed myself with french fries which was also burnt mostly.

The waiter was very unprofessional. He was mumbling all the time that we could barely hear what he said but well ,fine.

My glass had full of lipstick print on the edge. It was so gross and when I called him, he took away without saying a word.

We asked for some bread which was usually provided before steak comes. Until we asked, he did not bring anything; when asked, he brought some old bread - used to be sourdough...

Not sure what happend to this restaurant. We all understand that inflation hits pretty bad but doesnt have to shrink the food quality and service this much while charging...

Sure, it is good steak; but I can get certified angus beef at numerous other places and get the service, atmosphere and other accompanying food to go with it that far surpasses this place and at a more reasonable price.

I was disgusted with my fries - they were hardly luke warm and I could tell they had been re-fried more than once as there was hardly any potato left in the fry. I asked for new ones. What did I get? I got my old fries, reheated in the fryer! And don't expect any vegetables to come with your meal either - that would be too much to ask. Ceasar salad was boring and the french onion soup was good, but tasted exactly the same as the one I get from my local supermarket. On top of that, it was all over priced with no value add.

The wine was good - however we had to get the cheapest bottle at $45. The next cheapest was around $125 and up to over $1,000.

Hmm. Service? what service? our waiter treated us like we were not welcome; didn't say hello or how are you or even happy new year (yes, this was new years eve). I've had better service at a franchise restaurant where at least they smile!

The whole evening reeked of stuffy pretentiousness. I will never go there again and I will never...