I'm one of THOSE people that read the menu ahead of time, so I deliberately went to Elwood Bathers starving, so I could try three courses (It's the weekend, ok?). Entering the restaurant, there was the must incredible smell and while possibly heightened because of my hunger, I'm sure it would have smelled as delicious even if I weren't hungry at all.
We sat down and immediately realised that the other reviews are right when they mention how loud it is in here. Big floor to ceiling windows and concrete floors don't do much to absorb the sound, so you might need to preserve your voice until you arrive, so you can yell over to the people you're dinning with. The table was very narrow and hard to fit in drinks and water and phones and cutlery and plates etc, but we managed eventually.
The food came out really quickly and was presented beautifully. The salmon entree was superb and light, fresh and delicious. Really good. When the main came out, I was a little disappointed. The Fish 'n Chips were great tasting, but there was SO much salt coating it all, that I had to leave a big chunk of it (and remember, I'm still hungry at this point). The batter tasted good, but it was dense and doughy. The fish inside was beautifully cooked and white. Dessert didn't disappoint. Not only was it also very pretty on the plate, but perfect on the palate. I asked for an ice cream flavour substitution and they obliged correctly. It was a delicious chocolate fondant with vanilla ice cream and freeze dried strawberries. So yum.
The service here was pretty much spot on as well. Our waitress was friendly and nice, and when my companion didn't like their dessert, she offered another at no charge, or to have it removed from the bill. Everyone was accomodating and happy.
The negatives were ... Expensive parking. There's plenty of parking, but for two hours, it cost $12. The food is a bit on the pricey side, but that's why you come here for an occasion. The acoustics aren't great. When I say it's noisy, I mean it sincerely. It's loud. But the view of the water is gorgeous and the decor is nice, and overall I must say I will DEFINITELY come back again to try other menu items (and maybe try it for breakfast one day). read more