Sunday, May 8, 2005

The Pines, Jasper

One of these days we'll actual stay at the resort and enjoy the canoes, horses and more dining. Have been here for dinner as well, caution: make a reservation. It's a peaceful place. If not a little hilly.

The Pines
Coast Pyramid Lake Resort, a couple minutes outside of Jasper
http://www.coasthotels.com/hotels/canada/alberta/jasper/coast_pyramid/dining

Date: May 8, 2005
Occasion: in Jasper, wanted to try a new brunch spot

Ambience: 8/10. Beautiful view of Pyramid Lake.
Drinks: coffee was good.
Entrees: The CDWs went for the brunch buffet. We've had other hotel brunches. Even in Jasper. This one was a 7-8/10. Beef sausage - good and different. Everything was of good quality. Absolute winner: watermelon and red onion salad. Need a recipe for that.
Service: excellent.

Price: $$$. For the amount/variety of food it was kinda pricey.

The verdict? Go for a menu'd meal - dinner or lunch next time. Maybe a late night stroll over the bridge followed up by dessert...

Saturday, May 7, 2005

Villa Caruso, Jasper

When you feel the need to have a nice steak and a bit of Greek flair and you're in Jasper and you like a bit of view with your meal and you don't want to go to a hotel... where do you go?

Villa Caruso
Connault Drive at Hazel Ave., Jasper, Alberta
http://www.villacaruso.com/

Date: May 7, 2005
Occasion: Dinner, never had eaten here before, and keep meaning to

Ambience: First you have to mention the view. They know it's all tourists who are paying their salaries. They try to sit you with as much view as is available. And of course there's a balcony
Drinks: Mrs. CDW had a glass of G Peller White Zinfandel 7/10 while Mr. CDW sipped on a Cosmo 7/10.
Entrees: Both CDWs had the prime rib with garlic mashed and veggies. Sadly this was not one of the good ones. Overcooked, ordered med rare, served one med well and 2nd well!! Veggies were good as was the gravy. Mashed were just ok. 4-5/10
Service: great. Offered free dessert/coffee to compensate.
Dessert: (since it was offered) New York Cheesecakes. 5-6/10 Hoping this would pull up their reputation, it was kind of disappointing. Sauces were mushed berries that were far from fresh.

Price: $$$.

What tourists will pay for and eat. Can't say it'll be on our list when we visit Jasper next. If you've had a different experience, please comment.