L2 Grill (Fantasyland) WEM, Edmonton

Can decent food be found at WEM? Overlooking the premium charge for tourists, of course.

L2 Grill
Fantasyland, West Edmonton Mall, Edmonton

Date: March 19, 2011
Occasion: wanted to try a new-to-us spot

Ambience: 8/10 Nice upgrade from the old restaurant. Apparently can change the colour of the lights to create different moods (we had red, not sure what that meant).

Service: Ours rocked. Fady (waiter) kept us entertained. Appreciate it when other staff walking by will take dishes/check on refills, etc.

Appies: Mrs CDW and Guest 1 enjoyed the show Fady put on as he created our table-side for two Caesar Salad. Was really tasty too. 9/10 Mr CDW and Guest 2 both had the Lobster Bisque in a very unique dual-bowl. 8/10

Mains: Mr CDW and Guest 1 noshed on Crispy Pork Loin. In spite of a good sauce and nice veggies, the pork was overcooked for both. 6/10 Mrs CDW was tempted by the Tagine of Chicken, which turned out to be more for presentation then anything. Chicken was fine, spiced potatoes were excellent. 7/10 Guest 2 had the Apple Wood Chicken.

Dessert: So we made our waiter work! Mrs CDW and Guest 1 were entertained again by Fady with the traditional table-side Crepe Suzette.. flambe and all. Was a show for that side of the room as well. Was ok. Sauce slightly overdone - was the floorshow. 8/10 Mr CDW had Touch of Gold - chocolate. Guest 2 enjoyed the Strawberry Bomb - light and tasty.

Price: $$$. This was overpriced. But they are trying to be high-end dining, and it IS at WEM afterall. Large wine list but had a premium on it too.

So maybe it's something to do with the chef? Chef Shane formerly headed up Sage (River Cree) and we had a similar experience, albeit with not good service there. Glad we tried it though and overall it wasn't a top 5 restaurant, but it might worth a try on another night.