01-11-2018, 11:43 AM
(This post was last modified: 01-11-2018, 11:53 AM by panamaniac.)
(01-11-2018, 11:15 AM)jgsz Wrote:(01-11-2018, 10:39 AM)panamaniac Wrote: Has anybody been to the Berlin since the new chef has been in place? The on-line reviews seem decidedly mixed.
We haven't been there since it first opened so it's about time we went again. And we will.
As for online reviews, like TripAdvisor, they can be very helpful if you know how to read them. Some reviewers don't like the high price of fine dining (they want what for a glass of wine?!) or their comfort zone (based on their other reviews) is burgers and fries. Often I see reviewers write inane things like "Best burger ever!" but notice they've only had one or two reviews and all close to home. Those reviews I dismiss totally. But some reviews can be quite constructive and we've gone to some restaurants based on good, detailed, reviews.
Regardless, the food scene in Waterloo Region is rather dynamic, especially when it comes to ethnic cuisines, but the Region is not yet a foodie destination.
Indeed, one can never take on-line reviews at face value (and that's true for restaurants, hotels, and tourist attractions). In the case of Berlin and other higher end fine dining establishments, I'm always struck by the number of people complaining about the (inadequate) portion sizes, and/or the high prices, and/or slow service. One is left wondering why they didn't just go someplace to scarf down 8oz hamburgers and poutine. Even in the case of detailled reviews that focus on the food, you can sometimes see that the reviewer fancies herself as the sort of foodie who's high standards are seldom met. Not helpful either way.