Dining Out, Ottawa style: Buster's Bar & Grill

Yesterday, after a quick change in plans from some friends, I was picked up and brought out to the West End (Bayshore/Britannia area) for supper.

Now, I haven't eaten out much in Ottawa, but coming from Montreal, I will admit that I often have high standards for places. Montreal is considered one of the best restaurant cities in Canada, while Ottawa has restaurants, quality to be discussed.

Buster's Bar & Grill is located in the Lincoln Fields Shopping Centre. Now, in my experience, restaurants in malls do have the tendency to be sketch, but this one was not. It was nicely renovated on the inside, with tall, dark wood seperations so that you could sit in a variety of areas, such as the bar.

The food was a decent price and you did get a good amount. I have the quesadillas, which were stuffed with cheese, tomatoes, green peppers and onions and had a side of fries that I dare say, looked homemade. This was $8.99. I also had a Coke at $2.99, which was a bit steep, however, you also had unlimited refills, so the price did make sense to me then.

My dining companions had chicken fingers with french fries or mashed potatoes, as well as a chicken wrap. All reported that it was very good and filling.

Our waiter was this friendly guy who checked on us fairly often, but then forgot to bring us our bills. One of my friends had to flag him down at one point for them, which was a bit annoying, but considering how we were sitting around talking, I can understand the waiter's point of view.

Apparently, they also have live bands on Friday and Saturday nights, which does kind of break up the sports bar feel of the place. Honestly, it seems like a really mixed crowd of customers, from families to young professionals to this middle aged woman with too many tattoos.

Overall, a good experience. If it was closer to me, I would definately return, especially to watch a Hockey game.

Buster's Bar & Grill (Sports bar/family restaurant): B
2525 Carling Avenue, Unit 48
(613) 828-9004