Apt613 checked out the menu at the latest British invasion in the Byward Market. Opened in early 2016, The Red Lion takes over the prime corner at Clarence and Parent previously occupied by Empire.
With a soon to be heaving patio we chose an early weeknight evening to explore the atmosphere and pub fare on offer.
A huge lion rampant marks out the new entrance via the patio which feels much more natural and inviting than the previous venue’s side entry. Once inside it’s a classic Canadian interpretation of the British Pub with lots of diamond buttoned banquettes and deep red walls. The cozy style works well in the large space but a neutral wall colour would add greater authenticity and would contrast effectively with the burgundy furniture and dark floors while complementing, even showcasing, the large windows which are always a standout pub feature.
Photo courtesy of The Red Lion.
With 15 taps there is a satisfying mix of domestic, craft and import beer. Massive kudos to the team for stocking award winning London Pride; the UK’s top selling ale is a very appropriate and authentic tap for this venue. There is also an extensive wine and cocktail menu available. The by-the-glass wine selection is under $10 while bottles range from high 30s to vintage choices in the 100s. The Red Lion also features a weekly Thursday wine night where you can explore the by the glass range for only $4 or get 25% off their bottle selection. The drinks menu is fun and inventive and we opted for the signature Red Lion Cocktail which mixes beer with spirits and juice for a refreshing kick that would make a great summer night post-work recharge.
Salt & Pepper Calamari. Photo by Jennifer Cavanagh.
Consulting our skilled server, we opted for the Crispy Beef Strips and Salt & Pepper Calamari starters. The beef, attractively presented in a small curry dish, was a spicy bowl of sticky sweet and sour goodness. While saucy rather than crisp and resting on a bed of rice noodle this opener is more than generous. However, the calamari were the top choice of our two starters. Though I prefer mine with slightly more crunch the quality of the squid was first-rate and the delicate seasoning exceptional. Coming with a side of arugula and crème fraiche this is one garnish not to be left on the plate as it complements the calamari gorgeously and the fresh simplicity is delicious in its own right.
The starters are so generous I was well pleased to have selected the Tuna Tataki Salad as my main while my date chose pub favorite fish n’ chips. The tuna salad is a perfectly proportioned blend of seared tuna, greens and vermicelli. Generous on the tuna, the dish is served on a stylish stone platter with an eye-catching sweep of pesto to stir in as suits your palate.
The fish and chips comes on faux-newsprint with crudités and wedge chips. The haddock was outstanding – a high-quality firm meaty fish with no hint of fishiness. The batter though appetizingly crisp at the ends was slightly soggy towards the middle which was unfortunate given the tremendous quality of the fish. The innovative tartar with wasabi and green pea provided a nice tang and twist on the traditional while the garlic infused malt vinegar for the rustic chips was a flavoursome nod to the meal and venue’s legacy.
Open daily until 2am, it’s a welcoming spot for dinner or drinks with nibbles and a side of good banter also you can mix it up on Fridays and Saturdays when they feature a late-night DJ.
See you on the patio this summer for drinks and calamari.
The Red Lion is located at 47 Clarence Street in the Market. It’s open Mon-Fri from 11am-2am and on Sat & Sun from 9am-2am. For menu and information, check out their website.
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