A facebook post showing some of the new renovations actually piqued my interest to visit Locavore again after many years of not having dined here...in fact, it was probably named something else the last time I ate here!
At first inspection, it seems quite snug inside, and we went in at 7pm on a Friday night, so there were a few Friday night knock-off-drinks patrons at the new (quite funky curved) bar. According to another facebook tidbit, there is still the same number of tables as before, it's just that the room has been rejigged a bit.
We had a table upstairs, and the noise level given the time of the week/evening was acceptable. It isn't quiet, so if you're looking for a cosy affair, perhaps look elsewhere. But it is fun and interesting, with local artists' works hanging on the walls (some for sale too!). The upstairs seating also concerned me as I know (having worked with some) that not all waiters are uber-energetic at the best of times...but our waiter was outstanding. Prompt, friendly service with a good knowledge of the menu and, more importantly the beer/wine list (it was Friday night after all!)
I have to preface this next section. I (and another dining companion) had a fantastic meal. However...
There was one diner at my table that was disappointed. The fish cakes had little to no 'fish' flavour. All potato, slight lemon taste, no fish (I tasted a bit of fish in there, but my dining companion insisted she could taste 'no fish').
The vegetarian gnocchi dish was also listed as coming with goats curd, which another of my dining companions had ordered, but it came out with zero goats curd. It may not seem like a huge issue, but when that's one of the things that pushes you to choose one menu option over another and it doesn't come out, it is a bit disappointing.
As I said though, the steak was sublime. Melty, delicious steak, with a perfectly cooked mushy and delicious béarnaise sauce was divine. That paired with a very reasonably priced Bird-in-Hand shiraz made my night. Literally no room for dessert.
Overall we had a really nice night. It's a warm atmosphere and the service was really good...perhaps just order another dish if you're after something fishy! read more