The Black Dog Village Pub & Bistro

Right from the get go this was one of the best places we have been to in a while. They were full and directed us to the bar to wait for a table . The bartender was so knowledgeable about single malts it even impressed my brother in law who is a avid scotch connoisseur. We waited less then 15 mins much too our shagrin as we would have love to have tried more the bar had to offer. We all had the chicken breast which was so tender and covered in the most amazing cream sauce. Then the entertainment was Royal Wood that night . he was unbelievable there entertainment roster is the who's who of Canadian music. As quoted from Royal Wood - the Black Dog has always been a place I look forward to coming to when on tour. If you are a well know Canadian Artist chances are you've played the Black Dog. All around one of the best dinning experiences EVER . Will recommend to anyone.

Wonderful atmosphere, very good service, FABULOUS FOOD!

We started with the cheese plate for two .... four beautiful selections, an opportunity to try some special cheeses.

For our main course, we shared two appetizers ..... a spinach salad and lovely spicy shrimp. Excellent combination. The salad was delicious ... the crunch of bacon and pecans was devine. The shrimp was cooked to perfection ... not an easy feat, I've noticed in restaurants!

I definitely think think this is THE place to eat in Bayfield! Highly recommended!

I have been to this restaurant a number of times (I even went before it became the Black Dog). It was definitely better when I first started going, and seems to be continuing in its decline. I loved the fish and chips when they were first on the menu and really liked them with the salad. Last time I went no salad, too bad. The curry was good and a nice portion. Loved the salmon on potato. I am a fan of a good burger and was really disappointed in the tasteless burger, and would never risk should a letdown again. It always surprises me when a pub can't make a good burger. Wish that things would start to improve here.... Service is spotty, from great to terrible. Once our waitress "forgot" to bring our change before she left for the night (the manager was very apologetic). I have had this happen in Toronto too but didn't think it would happen here.

I ordered a Boddington's, but they were out. They had no other light beers (in a pub?) so I ordered a Leffe which was fine. The meal was a little slow in arriving, but the waitress was nice. My burger was very bland - it tasted plainer than a Big Mac from McDonalds, and came with hardly any toppings, and none that would warrant the $10 price for the burger. It wasn't hot - sort of tepid. The fries were a bit soggy, but at least somewhat tasty. The waitress seemed genuine when I shared my concerns, but the manager didn't come over to follow-up (if the waitress passed on my concerns) except to silently remove a plate. My wife's salad was good, she said, and they gave a refill which for a pub is worthy of recognition. The atmosphere was mediocre, with quite a bit of chatter and no music, and slow meal delivery. And the bathrooms were inadequate.

First ordered a $49.00 bottle of wine only to have it served in a glass that smelled of a dirty rag. When brought to the attention of waitress (we seemed to have 3 that night)I was asked if I wanted it transferred to a new glass, UGH...no. Escargot was luke warm but portabello mushroom was piping hot underneath. Calamari had way too much breading, but dipping sauce was very good. My pasta sauce was like wallpaper paste and no taste. Husband's steak seemed to be good, but twice baked potatoes should be baked. The shell had been deep fried then mashed potatoes put in. When we received the bill, there was no adjustment for the glass of ruined wine. When we asked about it, the waitress who presented the cheque, not the original one, said "I have no idea what went on, so I can't adjust." Nice. Please keep in mind that we were there for lunch the same day and it was fabulous...what a difference a few hours make. Ambiance was not pleasurable, should have sat outside instead of listening to the non-stop loud chattering of the waitresses to the bartender. Music would have been nice.

Best place I have ever been!
I can't count the number of times I've been to this beautiful establishment. Service is great at the bar and on the floor. Every single dish on the menu is great...quote me on that. The fish and chips are possibly the best in Southern Ontario.

The selection on draught (Bass, Mill St., Guinness and more international delicacies) is equalling amazing, perfect for anyone who enjoy's a relaxing pint!

I feel bad for those who had a "bad" experience, they don't know what they are missing.

Cheers!

P.S. If you enjoy a fine scotch...there is no place better!

The staff were quite nice and the pub is warm and welcoming.
The food was not up to par for the cost. The curry tasted like it had been cooking for hours and too concentrated in flavour.
Burger was OK, cooked well done.

I have been to this pub a number of times since it opened and have always been more than happy with my experience. This is a gem of a pub, with a wonderful, warm atmosphere and friendly servers. But what always makes it great is the food and beverages. Everything tastes like it has been made from scratch, with a lot of attention to detail. Be sure to try the house-made soups and desserts (the Peanut butter tart is amazing!). We will definately go back.

The Black Bean soup was excellent!
Usually their fish and chips are great. This is the third time I have ordered this item with complete disappointment! The fish was overcooked and a very small portion. The menu change to coleslaw from a small mixed green salad is a definite mistake. Their side salads are always good! The coleslaw was awful! The house red wine is excellent. The dessert was reported to be very good. One last comment - the band was too loud, even though we were seated at the very front of the restaurant.

Bayfield is a beautiful spot for dining however I don;t know if the drive was worth it at the Black dog pub.
The servers were nice but the food was very average and rather pricey.