Description: There are a number of Ric’s Grills in Western Canada, and they tend to get good reviews (according to the write-ups provided to the customers). This establishment, in a second floor location on one of Victoria’s most interesting streets, is a feast for the eye. It’s an extremely stylish room done in dark browns from the attractive wood tables to the fabrics in the booths to the walls. The latter are hung with a display of smart, attractive abstracts in which the reds dominated. Add some stained glass, marble tile and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the street and it’s all good. The lighting is subdued with small fixtures hanging above the tables. The décor is 10/10.
The service was also a 10/10; who would have believed that the waitress was from our home town 3000 miles away? The menu? The menu is extensive; there are salads ($5 - $17), soups ($6 - $15) and an amazing steak menu (What cut did you want, how big and spicy or not?), for steak is what they do ($24 - $38). You can even add lobster or prawns to that big boy. You’ll also find chicken, lamb, and fish ($24 - $39) as well as pasta in the $20 range. Throw in the big wine list and there’s something for everyone. For sheer choice, let’s give Ric’s 10/10.
We placed three entrée orders: halibut, a 16 oz. spicy rib steak (That would be me, but even though we had arrived early, there was no rare prime rib left.) and a spinach salad with calamari (my daughter, the fussy vegetarian). With all the preamble, the meal was only fair…in fact it was a let-down. We are rarely critical with a restaurant, and with so many things going for it, we were prepared to love this one. I’m afraid I do much better on my own barbecue and that has never cost me $130 plus tip.
On the other hand, the next night we ventured out to the India Curry House at the foot of Fort Street (250-381-7427). Ambience and atmosphere: 5/10, service: 6/10 (and that might be a little generous), and food 8/10. Better, and for 2/3 the price.
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