The Keg is definitely one of my go to places. The food is relatively consistent, it varies a bit by location, but it you want great steak this is the place to go.
Last September I was working out in Victoria. That day there were numerous road closures and access to the downtown core was challenging. The taxi dropped me off a few blocks away and I stumbled upon a Keg. It was a welcomed surprise. I'd started work very early and hadn't eaten much so figured I may as well stop for an early dinner while the crowds die down.
This particular location was in an older building. I walked in and was greeted immediately by a gentleman that worked there. There were others close by and everyone was warm and friendly. I was escorted to a table on the second level. It was early. There might have been 3 table in total, so it quite which was nice. Often times I find The Keg can be quite loud so if you're planning a quite dinner, best to go early.
The waitress was also very bubbly and attentive. I looked through the menu and decided I wasn't going to order my usual. Time to try something different. A pistachio crusted salmon caught my eye. Typically I shy away from fish due to a bad experience as a child. I choked on a fish bone and was traumatised for years. At home I check, double check and triple check filets before preparing them. Oh well, life is too short you have to take chances sometimes. In the menu it was described as a salmon filet crusted with pistachios and served with brussel sprouts sautéed with bacon, garlic mashed potatoes and a maple butter drizzle. They had me at the pistachios and I love brussel sprouts so all was good. Plus who doesn't love bacon??? The waitress seemed surprised by my choice. I guess most people order steak. She smiled and said I would not be disappointed.
I indulged in a frozen margarita which was really, really good. Probably one of the best ones I've ever had. The food took a little while, but when my plate arrived it looked amazing. It was a fairly good sized portion of fish. Everything looked delicious and was perfectly placed. In fact it looked so good I had to take a picture. If I can figure out how to post it on my blog, I'll happily share it.
The fish was cooked perfectly. It was tender and moist. The pistachios added a nice crunch. When I took a bite with some mashed potatoes and brussel sprouts, there was a carnival of flavours and textures dancing in my mouth. The maple butter drizzle was to die for. I'm not a huge fan of maple syrup as I find it tends to have a bitter aftertaste, but this was wonderful. I wished there would have been more of it. It helped to balance the bitterness of the brussel sprouts by adding a subtle hint of sweetness.
My only negative comment would be that I found 4 fish bones. Thankfully it was more towards the end of the meal and there was no choking involved so I was able to finish the dish. I'll admit I had to force the last few bites in, but there was no way I was going to let any of it go to waste.
The habit of always finishing my plate may seem silly, but there are many good reasons for it. First of all growing up we didn't have a lot of money. Only Dad worked and there were many occasions where he was laid off or between jobs so Mom was great at never wasting anything. Every part of any animal was used. Food was never thrown out, that would be sacrilege. Secondly, I can be a bit particular. If something like soup is supposed to be hot, then I need it to be hot or I won't eat it or enjoy it. I often see people asking for doggy bags at restaurants and that's fine, but some foods need to eaten when prepared. Reheating will often over cook a beautiful dish. There are a few exceptions like stews and pasta's, but something as delicate as fish would definitely be over cooked and I just wouldn't enjoy it. Silly I know, but that's just me. Anything with bread usually results in the bread getting soggy and that makes me gag. Fried food, unless you're going to re-fry it, good luck cause you'll more than likely end up with a greasy soggy mess.
Back to my salmon. Once again, it was delicious. I found the price was very reasonable. The Keg is what I would consider a higher end restaurant so I fully expect prices to be a bit higher. Overall it was an excellent experience. The staff was attentive and smiling which further enhances the dining experience. My plate was beautiful making it all the more appetizing and I wasn't disappointed. Don't you just hate it when something looks good, but then it doesn't taste good?
I would strongly recommend this dish. For those who like fish, you will not be disappointed. The combination of the pistacchios, brussel sprouts, bacon and the maple butter drizzle really tone down the fish so it would also be a good choice for those that don't like strong fishy tastes.
Check it out, would love to get your feedback!
Carm Foodie
No comments:
Post a Comment