Connaughton's Riverdale Steak House

Connaughton's is an old world steakhouse favoured by the Riverdale political machine and different from Jake's, the other local steakhouse. I favour the Bavarian chocolate cake, but they run out of it too often. Service on the weekends is spotty. The regular servers during the week are exceptional. The menu could use a refreshing. Still, its crab cakes are wonderful. They need to work on bread for the table. That should be automatic at a steakhouse. One should expect that. Otherwise, a far more friendly steakhouse than Jake's. Price point is similar. Park across the street in the mall lot.

Quick turn around on a take out order. Big juicy burger with extra thick cut fries. Really hit the spot when I was super hungry. I've also dined in once at this comfy pub. Large wrap around bar and lots of table seating. Had a big Caesar salad and crab cakes. Food consistently good. Prices reasonable for amount and quality of food. I have a feeling I'll be returning as a regular.

It really depends on who you get here for service as the weekend staff are indifferent and the weekday staff are phenomenal. Inattentive and untrained as they are on the weekends, you notice a difference in the presentation. Also, refills are only if you disturb them. Instructed to add coulis to the plated cake, they failed. Notice the difference in the photos. Coulis, raspberry or chocolate, is critical to the taste and texture of mousse. It is not decoration. They need to retrain the weekend staff.

This Irish classic adjoins a huge Irish retail gift store with high-quality Irish merchandise. The food is exquisite. The chocolate cake is by far and away the best in the neighbourhood, and the service is friendly, considerate, and impeccable. The atmosphere is not stuffy. The regulars at the separate bar are gracious and connected, and the local movers and shakers. The typical steakhouse is Jake's in Riverdale. This one is where the old timers go. It is our Cheers in Riverdale.