The Boreal Diner

Atmosphere was cute, but we were seated right next to a used book shelf, where people were staring at us as we waited for food. The service was lacking, with the waiter not filling our water glasses and instead providing a mason jar to fill our own- this always tends to drip and is not elegant. We were only provided with a fork and knife, to be used for the entire three course meal, which is a bit odd at this price scale. The servers were friendly, but missed details like who ordered what at our table of two. These details are expected at this type of restaurant. Bread provided to the table was not enough for the long wait for food, we only got once slice cut in 4 small squares to share.The appetizers were disappointing, my chanterelle tart was ice cold in the centre as if it has been stored in the fridge, and because of this the pastry was rock hard. My wife's scallops were overcooked and were finished with FAR too much salt to the point I heard her crunching on it loudly. The main dishes were not better- my wife's Kimchi noodle bowl was good but not spectacular- cheap places in town make it much better for $12 rather than $36 here. Also if we did not get three courses, the portion size would have been extremely small. The pork belly was completely soft and chewy. My duck pasta dish was also no better. I got dry duck breast shredded on top of bland pesto pasta that was quite chewy. The parmesan was added beforehand and had no taste. We were not offered pepper, salt or additional parmesan on our main dishes. The desserts had to be the worst of all. My molasses custard pie had no garnish or ice cream, and was bland with a bad texture- it tasted and felt like pumpkin pie without any spices and was most certainly not custard. My wife's green tea-peach cake tasted not of green tea, nor peach. It was quite bland and also was not presented more than being put on a plate. We love Bonavista very much and come each year to celebrate our anniversary, however this will be our first and last time eating at Boreal Diner. $165 later and we had to go for ice cream at Little Dairy King to actually be satisfied. I agree with other reviews that this is a blatant tourist trap, and being local I felt especially ripped off. I could not recommend this place to anyone.

Within this cozy beautiful restaurant you will find some really top quality local and creative food. There is also artwork and delicious coffee. Lovely staff, timely service, clean environment! I must add there was a good playlist tonight.

A really really great meal in Bonavista - gorgeous building inside and outside, and delicious food. The bread and miso butter was fantastic to start, and all other courses were fresh and tasty. Service was friendly and efficient and we would definitely recommend to anyone looking to have a nice meal in the area.

Think twice before you rate it less than 5 stars!!I'm a guy who prefers Indian food and very hesitant to have any other cuisine. Late night with few options ended up at The Boreal diner and boi was I lucky.Staff are very friendly, helpful and full of knowledge and the chef, absolutely amazing.He was able to prepare duck as per my dietary restriction and the taste of it, woooooooow.I highly recommend to plan your dinner here.

Great atmosphere and view during sunset from the top floor.The chef is amazing. I can’t say enough how delicious was the lobster soup. Desert deserves a special recognition as well.

Honestly wish I could leave 10 stars. My husband and I are here in Newfoundland for another one of our long road trips. This little gem of a restaurant served us the most unexpectedly creative and tasty gourmet meal we have ever experienced. New and refreshing food combinations, textures and presentations. Fresh, local, seasonal foods. Attentive service and appropriately timed courses. Like being in France! Casual, yet refined. Youthful. A bit funky, a bit traditional. I am in heaven. And the best part: not a single potato on the menu. If you have ever been in the Atlantic Providences, you know what I mean!!!! Boreal: we love you! Hey! Try the 5 course meal. Worth every single penny.

This place is really really fantastic. The cuisine is very special and unique. The lobster is to die for. The steak was also very good and the local crab was amazing. This place is highly recommended.

Spectacular! Exceptional local cuisine. Flavour was divine and portions were a decent size. Great service.

The best meal we had on our trip to Newfoundland, so glad we were able to make a last minute reservation! Complex, scrumptious dishes. Amazing value.

Honestly, what a cute and charming spot! Of all the restaurants in big cities I've been in, it was this one from a small town in Newfoundland that hit the big marks. Incredible!We were a party of four and we shared everything in the menu. The menu is small with about 4 appetizers and 5 Entrees, but they were all a hit.