Shakey's - The New Look!

I decided to check out a local pub called Shakey's located at 2255 Bloor Street West.  I had been in 4 months ago when I was in Bloor West Village and to be honest with you I walked right back out.  I had to pass a few homeless looking fellows when I went in and the exterior matched the interior.  It was a very boring sports pub with old TV's, a musty smell, and a boring atmosphere.  At this point food was out of the question.

Three weeks ago I walked past this location again and was in a state of shock.  They had shut down for some renovations and man did it work.  Shakey's is an entirely new place.  The revitalized bar with a new display of draught taps, the reduction of clutter on the walls, 7 brand new large TV's, fresh new warm colour choice of paint, and new ceiling lighting makes for a new look that is 100% different then before.  I was very impressed and followed up a week later for some lunch.  

The menu didn't have more the 15 items on it which seemed a little disappointing.  Though there is two ways to look at a simple menu.  If there is enough to satisfy the standard patron looking for a quick bit to eat then the basic menu works.  But from the new look it seems as though they are looking to attract more of an upscale crowd and that means you need to have some unique different menu items that will intrigue people to purchase them.  Regardless I had the chili fries and a caesar salad and my guest had the burger with a side salad.  The food was great but the only issue I had was that the lettuce was wet.  It watered down the dressing and made the caesar salad very bland.

I went back again one evening with a small group and we were enjoying some beers and decided to order some nachos.  They are the BEST nachos I have had in the Bloor West Village area.  I was very impressed once again.

The service at lunch wasn't that great as the bartender socialized with some regulars.  One might argue that they are there everyday and tip well but I would say that it is those guys that should understand when you need to focus elsewhere to ensure new guests become regulars.  The evening server seemed a little bitter upon arrival but started to warm up as the night when on.

I would recommend Shakey's to a group of guys looking for a place to go to watch the game.  There isn't a lot of seating, so for any big event I would get in there early. 

The best part about Shakey's is that at the bottom of their menu they indicate that all of their food comes from local suppliers in the immediate Bloor West Village area.  It is great to see a local company supporting its neightbours.

If you are looking for a quick lunch, a bite with the guys, or simply drinks in a pleasant atmosphere then this is your place.  With a basic menu, fairly good service, and a great atmosphere I would rank it a 7.5 out of 10.

Enjoy the Game.

- The Hungry Ginger