Travail Basement Bar — Restaurant in Robbinsdale

My husband and I finally got to go to Travail after it being on our bucket list restaurants for so long for The Office tasting menu (s/o to Travail for the spontaneous BOGO that put this in budget—never booked something so fast!), and it exceeded our expectations across the board. I typically judge restaurants in part by answering the question: Could I make this at home? A: absolutely not. The chefs deserve their spots, and the creativity in making it align with The Office so flawlessly? Next level. The drinks were delightful, unique, and complemented each bite. The space was gorgeous, interactive, and contained so many easter eggs from the show that were so fun to spot, not to mention the little field trip and activities that kept us giggling like delighted kids. Apart from the food, drinks, creativity, and atmosphere, I have to mention the amazing team. It was our first night out after our baby girl came six weeks ago, and the team celebrated with us in such an authentic and kind way, and they did an incredible job explaining each part of the experience and engaging with everyone. We started on cloud nine and finished on cloud ten! Really hoping we’ll be able to make it back in the future.

Pics of some fave dishes and moments. Every piece of this was...

I really enjoyed my experience here in the first week they were open. Paid reservations worked out really well - $10 per person, with all of it going toward the bill. Cocktails were the usual prices, $12-$13, but they also had the option of getting mini-cocktails for $6. The cocktails I saw were next level, including a smouldering cinnamon stick as a stand-in for a cigarette.

These folks do dramatic presentation really well. I asked for a mid-level brandy to finish the evening, and the bartender brought it to the table and told me a little bit about the history and philosophy of the brandy house. My wife wondered if I had made a costly mistake with my vague request, but it ended up being $10.

Food was amazing as usual and fairly priced. The standout for me was the Poutine - it was even more amazing with the sauce from the asparagus fries. I thought the shrimp might have been a little bit soggy, but they were so delicious that I convinced myself that was exactly the way they were supposed to be.

I'll definitely be...

We have been to the bar once before and this food wasn't the best. We had hair in the potatoes (waiter kindly apologized and gave us a free drink which was perfect, thanks!) but the the lasagna was burnt and a few other not great food bites here or there. However, that being said the trivia was fun, the atmosphere and acting really gave us a good time. In the past the food was better but I'd still go back because they constantly change their menu and the staff really is kind. I highly recommend any pop up themes they do. Halloween was still better and food more inventive. Overall, please go and have a dinner and show with...