Press Reviews
Toronto Life Magazine – March 2010
In the historic Heenan Building (named for a legendary former mayor) on Cobourg’s main drag, The Northside’s large dining room—all taupe hues and white linens—gives off a luxurious air that feels more big city than small burg. The setting comes through, however, in the tranquil vibe of the patrons and the pleasant balance of friendliness and formality struck by the servers. Chef John Devlin’s supremely confident bistro cooking, meanwhile, includes juicy house-made venison sausage, grilled and served on a zippy grainy mustard–cream sauce. Lightly creamed lobster bisque is sumptuous and satisfying. Braised in cider with caramelized leeks, a lamb shank served with root-veg hash is gorgeously tender, with sweet and subtle spice notes. The well-seasoned 12-ounce rib-eye—a 60-day dry-aged black Angus—is cooked to medium-rare and served with a dollop of garlic butter and gently roasted green beans. Desserts also excel, especially a velvety and sweet sticky toffee pudding cradled in an enormously deep bowl. Wines steer toward New World, with notable locals like Prince Edward County’s sumptuous Huff Estates off-dry riesling.
Taste of our Community – North Side Grill
by Jessica Gibson
On Saturday July 5th I had the pleasure of joining my parents, Patty and David for lunch at North Side Grill in Cobourg — located at 92 King Street West. We were greeted warmly by one of the owners, Jeff, and given the option to sit anywhere we wished. Being a beautiful day, we chose the welcoming large covered patio!
Time to order – drinks first! We chose to start with a Huff Estates 2007 Rosé from Prince Edward County, and found it to be an excellent pair to a warm day. Our server brought fresh bread with a garlic hummus to start, which was a great way to begin our meal.
Everything on the menu was very appealing. There was a nice combination of your everyday dishes with a unique twist. We started off with the soup of the day – a chilled cucumber and watermelon soup with a splash of champagne – perfect on a hot day! Patty had the chilled poached salmon with grape tomatoes and cucumbers served on a bed of bib lettuce. Presentation was great, and the salmon was cooked to perfection! David opted for the Kobe beef burger with pancetta, brie, charred tomato and a gherkin relish. Hope you’re hungry! This burger is piled high with first class toppings and paired with a refreshing caesar salad. I had the turkey club on toasted light rye with pancetta, aged cheddar, lettuce and charred tomato. Best club I’ve ever had! The turkey was thinly shaved and the pancetta was a great change from regular bacon. I paired my sandwich with some thin and crispy frites — delicious!
The service was also outstanding! Jeff, and our server Chris were more than helpful when it came time to make our dessert choices. Most important part of the meal, if you ask me! We decided to get Toby’s homemade strawberry shortcake and the peanut butter chocolate fudge cake made by Jeff’s mom! The shortcake was light and fresh – a perfect summer treat. The peanut butter fudge cake was simply amazing. Nothing better than home-baked goods! And nice coffee with our dessert was the perfect end to a great meal.
North Side Grill was all in all a wonderful experience. Many thanks to Jeff, Chris and the team! Whether you plan on spending an afternoon with the family or out for a romantic evening, this is the place for you!The Northside