We have tried quite a few times over the last couple of years to love this restaurant, because it is in our neighbourhood. Even before Covid, they were resting on their laurels, on lunch business downtown, and likely on loyal customers who have known the...owners for years. The food/menu was very tired and in need of a serious upgrade. Not a complete change, because to be fair there are a couple of gems on the menu, like the wasabi Caesar salad, and their house burger. Other items like the popcorn shrimp (a ton of breading on tiny shrimp), and the charcuterie board, really need to go. The charcuterie board is an insult. A few jarred preserves, and when I ordered it, a few pieces of run of the mill, Safeway-style cold cut and cheese (a slice of corned beef??) - that is not charcuterie!
Unfortunately a recent visit makes me think they will be closing soon. They were out of quite a few basics at the start of the weekend. Many of the regular staff did not seem to be around. Covid has been the death knell for many great restaurants, but I wonder if an update to their menu way before this, might have gotten a broader clientele interested? It is very sad because our experience with their service has been excellent, and we have always received a warm welcome. The surroundings are “old steakhouse” and the charm of the interior is terrific and really doesn’t need to change.
Too much reliance on a formula that worked 30 years ago, plus some real apathy and resistance to shaking up the menu now and then ( while keeping the real winners), is what brought Buchanan’s to this point.
To the owners I say, if you make it through this, please, please take a hard look at your menu, because if you don’t, I don’t think many other people will either.More