Watermark Pub
It can be rather difficult to get out to Toronto Island in the middle of the week, but that doesn't mean that you have to stay deprived of its natural beauty and sailboats in the middle of our concrete jungle. Watermark Irish Pub is a gorgeous (and spacious!) pub and restaurant with a huge patio right on Lake Ontario.
Watermark Pub Interior
Located on the Harbourfront, Watermark is right by the docks, complete with dinner cruise boats, tourists, and that refreshing breeze. I've never eaten inside because the patio is extremely spacious, especially if you compare it to the cramped sidewalk "patios" in the downtown core. If you do want to eat inside, though, you need not read any further. The only reason I find Watermark to be review-worthy is for its great outdoor experience and view; the inside, conversely, is rather cramped and quite dark, reminiscent of the long, cold winter months that you'd probably much rather forget for now.
The food is nothing special, but it is tasty — just as you would expect of typical pub food. I've been there a few times, and I won't lie: I have a bit of an obsession for their sweet potato fries. They're the perfect snack to munch on with a pitcher of beer. They cost $9, and the rest of the food, as well, is pretty averagely priced — a bit pricier compared to smaller pubs in the downtown core, but nothing extravagant. I've also had their bruschetta, $14, which was pretty good, but not the best.
Watermark Pub Interior
In terms of drink selection, avoid the cocktails. I tried the Orange Silk on the waiter's recommendation since their Blue Wave machine wasn't working and, well, it wasn't a pleasant experience. The drink was so sugary and so strong that I ended up with a headache later that night. Stick to a pitcher of reliable beer, and you'll be happier for it.
They have a small selection of desserts, and they also have a selection of dessert drinks. I have yet to the try the Bailey's cappuccinos, but judging by the cocktails, I'm not too keen on experimenting.
While this review makes Watermark sound like a two-thumbs-down, that's not the point I'm trying to convey here. My best advice? Keep it simple! This is not the place for fancy, elaborate wining and dining. It's a great place to head off to with a good book, some friends, or even with a date at the end of the night. Get some appetizers, grab a beer or a glass of wine, and just sit back on the patio and enjoy the breeze, the view, and the buzzing energy around you, and you'll be sure to have a fabulous time!
Location:
207 Queen's Quay West, Toronto, ON M5J 1A7
Operating Hours:
Mon - Tues: 11:30 am - 10:00 pm
Wed: 11:30 am - 11:00 pm
Thurs: 11:30 am - 12:00 am
Fri: 11:30 am - 1:00 am
Sat: 10:30 am - 1:00 am
Sun: 10:30 am - 10:00 pm
Contact:
WWW: www.watermarkirishpub.ca
Phone: 416-214-2772