University Club

The rating is a very solid 4 but it should have been a 5. The issue is mainly that the atmosphere and menu are a bit «tradtional» and dated — think 15 – 20 years ago.
Until recently, this was literally a private club and membership was required to dine here. It still carries that feel and the interior is overdue for some renovations to freshen it up a bit. It is caught between old-​school-​formal and upscale-​business-​casual and needs to decide which it wants to go.
The server was very attentive, friendly, casual, knowledgeable, and very helpful. When asked about how salty the soup was by one of our party, she offered to let them have a taste before they ordered. She knew the menu well and provided good advice. I was convinced to have a desert with my lunch for the first time in eons (the pavola was wonderful!). She was was always there when needed but never hovering about.
The food was wonderful and was beautifully presented with prices that were very reasonable. If that were the only criteria, this place would get 5 stars.
Desipte a few modern touches, the menu fell like something that would have impressed me 15 – 20 years ago.
This is «nicest» best place you can eat within walking distance of the University, but if you want something that is a bit more upscale or trendy, you will have to get in a car and head to one of Kitchener-Waterloo’s many fine dining establishments.
In the end, it gets 4 stars and I expect that I will be back soon.

This place has consistently great food and service. I’ve been many times and have never been disappointed. Honestly, it is one of the better restaurants in Waterloo. Too bad it isn’t open to the public (at least I think it isn’t). It would be a great lunch option.