Port Pub, Annapolis Valley
I visited this new gastropub this weekend. It is operated by the same chef as Tempest, which I have never found lived up to the hype. The location is very nice, with most tables having a view of the Cornwallis River. There is a large patio overlooking the river which would be great in warmer weather. The interior is light and spacious, with dark furniture. I found the service a little casual, eg. our waitress asked "how are yous?", but friendly and efficient. We drank the Red Ale and the seasonal special pumpkin martini, which both received thumbs up. Despite it being Thanksgiving, the special was a roast CHICKEN dinner, which was well prepared and served with mashed potatoes with a hint of celery root and roasted seasonal vegetables. I went with the lamb burger, with jack cheese and tahini, which was yummy. It was served with tabbouleh, which was made with couscous rather than bulgur and seemed to lack any seasoning - lemon juice, mint, anything to give it a flavour. Otherwise, the entrees were great. For dessert, the chocolate peanut butter pie on the web menu has replaced by a brownie, which was rich and fudgy and served with chocolate ice cream which probably came from Fox Hill Cheese, but was drowned out by an overgenerous amount of raspberry coulis, seeds and all. The special dessert was pumpkin apple crisp, with vanilla ice cream which was the better choice of the two,
This will probably become my "go to" spot in the Valley, offering an interesting and varied menu, made with quality ingredients. It would also be great spot for private functions like medium-sized weddings.
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Greg B
Oct 15, 2008 04:35 PM
I've been there a couple of times and was impressed. I was lucky enough to try the chocolate peanut butter pie before it went away and it was fabulous. I was told it was made in the Tempest kitchen and they were having difficulty keeping them supplied consistently. I also tried the beers made on site and enjoyed them, along with a root beer also made onsite. Main courses were all very nicely done. Recommended.
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re: Greg B
We were there on Saturday and were quite impressed. I'm with quof, never been overly happy with Tempest but the food at the Port Pub was very good. I had the "Local Braised Beef" on yummy garlic mashed potatoes. Others in my group has the "Nachos" and the "Fish and Chips" and both really enjoyed.
The beers were excellent as well. The service was very friendly and professional. I'll be heading to the Valley again this coming weekend and look forward to going back. I only wish it was closer to my home. EXCELLENT job overall.
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