Wednesday 1 August 2007

Rogue's Roost

Where: Rogue's Roost, 5435 Spring Garden Road, Halifax
When: Saturday, July 28th 2007
What: Two piece fish and chips, $8.50+tax

On a hot and steamy Saturday afternoon, a friend and I sought out beer and food before heading off to the midway (which was over by the time we arrived). We found ourselves at Rogue's Roost, a popular local bar and restaurant on Spring Garden Road. We sat ourselves at a table near the big windows over looking the street to enjoy our meal and some people watching.

We started off by trying to order a drink. We both got a bit confused at what was available on tap, but in the end choose bottled beer (Red Stripe for me, Sleemans Honey Brown for my friend). We each ordered the two piece fish and chips and settled in to people watch, except the street was almost dead. Where did every body go?

Rogue's Roost
Red ale batter fish and chips.

The fish and chips arrived promptly, nicely arranged on a big plate. One thing I like about Rogue's Roost is the big plates. I also like that the fish is not piled on top of the fries. I don't know why this bugs me, but it does. I think I'm worried the grease from the fish will make the chips soggy.

I like the fries here, even though they are not hand cut. I guess I just have a thing for big fries, plus they sprinkle special seasoning on them which is a nice touch. The tartar sauce was sub par, probably not fresh. I didn't really like it at all but if you're used to bottled tartar sause, you might like it. The garnish provided, which I guess is an alternative to cole slaw, was a little salad. I wish there had been a bit more of it since I actually like vegetables now. Missing was vinegar and I didn't think to ask for some, but it's a standard at most pubs that have fish and chips.

The fish was good, but I found one of my pieces a little overcooked. The batter was tough and chewy in a few spots. Overall though it was nice. The fish was tender and moist and filled with flavour. I liked the redish colour of the batter.

At $8.25+tax, Rogue's Roost has a great fish and chips platter at a decent price. Their staff is fast and friendly. Multiple servers checked on us throughout the meal. They have an extensive imported and domestic beer list, plus you can get a variety of their own microbrews when available. It's a stylish bar with a cozy feel where you can sit and watch the (normally) busy Spring Garden road below. I will definitely be returning to Rogue's Roost for fish and chips or to try something else on the menu. As my friend Tina exclaimed "Those fries were wicked!" I agree!

I give Rogue's Roost 4 little fishies out of 5.

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