EXILE RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE, St. John's - Downtown - Updated 2024 Restaurant Reviews, Menu, Prices, & Reservations

Does this restaurant offer highchairs for toddlers?

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About

Thrill your senses with a dining experience at JAG’s Exile Restaurant, with exquisite plates to tantalise your taste buds and an embracingly warm atmosphere, you’ll find yourself on a flavour adventure here again and again.

CUISINES

Bar, Contemporary, Canadian

Special Diets

Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options, Gluten free options

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Brunch

FEATURES

Reservations, Seating, Parking Available, Street Parking, Valet Parking, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Wine and Beer, Free Wifi, Table Service

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4.0

160 reviews

Excellent

72

Very good

43

Average

25

Poor

12

Terrible

8

InfiniteTravellers

Geneva68 contributions

Good but there is room for improvement

Jan 2020 • family

Music was great and the volume was pleasant. Service was slow. Eggs Benedict with salmon was good. More effort could have gone into the plating and presentation of the potatoes that came with the dish. All the was food was unfortunately cold. They need to work on getting food out to customers sooner. The jag burger my son ordered was burnt - they tried to hide the burnt part. Overall I still like the place but feel they need to put more effort into consistently delivering quality food and service to to customers.

Written January 13, 2020

This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Geoff D

Glasgow5 contributions

Not worth the money

Sep 2021 • couples

The tenderloin was excellent and cooked as requested but two ordered duck, but no duck. Had to order moose lasagna which arrived only warm with cheese not even melted. Had to send back for microwave and even then was dry and tasteless. Lesson learned, don’t order something from a big pan made earlier in the day and then served after a quick microwave warmup. Desserts were generous size and tasty. Ordered a whiskey drink and charged extra to make with bourbon instead of the premium rye advertised. Menu was limited as one diner doesn’t do fish. No homemade pasta, nothing special. Had nice comfy seats and a pleasant server. Other server clearing the table asked two diners to pass her their plates, never saw that before. I expect more when spending 500$ on a dinner with only one wine and drinks.

Written September 1, 2021

This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Cory A

Thank you for taking the time for a review and we appreciate your feedback. We are disappointed we didn't exceed your expectations. Your satisfaction is important to us and we will be using the feedback you provided to make improvements to ensure we offer an exceptional experience for our guests in the future. I hope that you will consider dining with us again so that we can have another chance to provide you with a superior experience.

Written October 15, 2021

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

SLH

St. John's306 contributions

Hip spot downtown with a variety of options

Aug 2021 • couples

Arrived for dinner at 8, it was quite busy and was informed of same upon arrival. A bit slow to get drink orders out but since it was slammed that was ok. My drink was quite tasty (the cherry oh baby), boyfriend didn’t quite enjoy his (expected a stronger whiskey drink vs the sweet one he got but that’s what you get when you order the unknown). Ordered olives and feta with extra bread, it was good. A bit surprised I was charged 4$ extra for a little bread where anywhere else would’ve just sent some out as there’s quite a large portion of dip to bread ratio. Friends ordere scallops, I think they were 13$? Two medium and one tiny scallop on some purée? Def not worth it. Brussels sprouts looked burnt but a big portion and they seemed to enjoy it. They had no beef as apparently a table of 25 showed on the day they had not booked? Which was a major disappointment. Because the beef was what the couple raves about as being very good. Cod was ok? Stuffed Chicken was ok. Desserts were delicious and big portions. Server was friendly enough but we didn’t need to hear her grievances with the table of 25 or how slammed she was at every interaction. We get it. Overall I would return, it’s nice atmosphere and good was good overall.

Written August 23, 2021

This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Cory A

Thank you very much for taking the time to leave us a review. We really appreciate the feedback. We strive to provide a superior guest experience and your valued comments will help us improve.

Written October 15, 2021

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

R Neil P

Paradise1 contribution

Hungry and Disappointed!

Dec 2023 • couples

My wife and I had dinner there on 28 Dec 23. Service was efficient but the meal was disappointing. The lamb shank was “entry level” at best and the JAG burger and side was just not edible after one bite. Little effort was taken to make it right and we walked away hungry and disappointed.

Written December 29, 2023

This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Cory Abbott

Very sorry that your meal did not meet your expectations. You do appreciate the feedback. We strive to provide the best guest experience that we can and your feedback will help us improve.

Written April 29, 2024

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

G R

1 contribution

THE BEST appetiser in the city!

Oct 2021 • couples

Our experience at Exile was incredible all around. Excellent cocktails, amazing service, and a delicious, well balanced, bright duck dish. However, the star of the meal was the moose donair onion rings. This was, hands down, the best appetiser I have had in St. John’s in years. The combination of salt and savoury and sweet, with the variety of textures, was unbeatable. I cannot recommend this dish enough. I had dreams about it the night after. I have craved it ever since. It was a feature for that night, but most Fridays and Saturday, similar culinary delights are on as the special. However, I insisted to the staff that this item in particular needs to be a permanent menu item.

Written October 9, 2021

This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Cory A

Thanks so much for the feedback! So glad you enjoyed the moose donair onion rings!

Written October 15, 2021

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Glenys M

St. John's7 contributions

Not the quality I expected

Mar 2022 • none

Went there today to try their burger for the burger challenge; My friend chose the moose Marsala dish. Burger was smothered in purple slaw and the patty was bland and unflavoured. The Moose Marsala was also not great. The moose was tough and the rice dry with no sauce. Chutney thick and cold. Just OK food.

Written March 12, 2022

This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Cory A

We’re sorry to hear that you were displeased with the quality of your recent meals at Exile. We feel our team created a unique burger for this challenge and we have gotten a number of rave reviews on it. We do understand that everyone’s tastes are different and it’s regrettable that you did not enjoy it but we appreciate all feedback. I trust that if there was an issue with the quality of your moose masala that your server rectified the issue when advised. Again, our apologies, and we hope that you return to dine with us at another time.

Written March 16, 2022

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Leonard C

St. John's25 contributions

I will never go back

May 2024 • friends

Start with positive. Very clean. Prompt service. Very clean. Complimentary water. Complimentary bread and butter. Now, blaring music. Great if you really have no interest in speaking to whoever you are with. I ordered two appetizers. Pad Thai Brussels and Crispy Salt Cod. Being a Newfoundlander I do know what cod tastes like. What was served? Pad Thai Brussels? Looked lovely. Not much of anything else on plate bnut it was a substantial portion of brussels. Crispy Salt Cod? Looked lovely It tasted like a mixture of wet potato with some minuscule portion of something that might have been a white fish at some point. I had perhaps a half spoon full. My friend had Wild Labrador Arctic Char. Char has to be served either fresh or smoked. It is not enhanced with either aging or freezing. I asked what it was like and was told dry. I do not recall ever complaining about a dish in a restaurant in Nfld before. Maybe I have but I am old. I told the young waiter that the Crispy Salt Cod was not satisfactory. He nodded and took the dishes and it was on my bill. I know I should have tipped because he didn’t cook it. But I couldn’t. I will certainly never go back there.

Written May 27, 2024

This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Cory Abbott

Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. We're delighted to hear that you appreciated our cleanliness, prompt service, and complimentary offerings. Your kind words about these aspects of your visit mean a lot to us. We apologize for the aspects of your experience that did not meet your expectations. We're sorry that the music volume hindered your ability to enjoy your time with your companion. We appreciate your comments about the Pad Thai Brussels and Crispy Salt Cod. Your insights, particularly about the cod, are valuable to us, and we will review the preparation and quality of this dish to ensure it meets the high standards we strive for. It's disappointing to hear that your friend did not enjoy the Wild Labrador Arctic Char. We understand the importance of serving fresh, high-quality fish, especially to guests familiar with its true taste. Regarding your interaction with our waiter, we apologize that your concerns were not adequately addressed. We will use your feedback to improve our service and ensure our staff are better equipped to handle such situations in the future. We value your patronage and hope you might reconsider visiting us again. We would love the opportunity to provide you with a more satisfying dining experience.

Written July 22, 2024

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

GoodFood&Drink

118 contributions

Average, so Disappointing

Oct 2022 • none

Food quality was slightly below what we expected since our last visits. Our group just didn't find the flavors to grab us. Still love the floor length windows, warm ambiance, and turned up music. The mid room seating - both chairs and banquette while attractive are just not at all comfortable. Fully understand that serious challenges are upon our locally owned eateries - we will try again!

Written November 21, 2022

This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Cory A

Very sorry to hear you were not completely satisfied during your last visit to Exile. We appreciate your feedback. Glad to hear that you enjoy the ambiance of the restaurant. We look forward to your next visit and to giving us another opportunity to provide a memorable dining experience.

Written December 9, 2022

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Tony G

6 contributions

Exiled to eat here...Perfect!

Aug 2020 • none

Great atmosphere, staff, food and drinks with reasonable prices. Stayed at the hotel and a perfect place to dine. First time I could easily hear and enjoy the great music but could also hear my wife talk without shouting like other loud restaurants. We’ll be back, LOVED the scallops appy, and paella main!

Written August 18, 2020

This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

918cva

Thanks so much, Tony for the 5-star review! So happy you enjoyed your first visit and we can't wait to see you again.

Written August 19, 2020

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Mandy

1 contribution

Overcooked and overpriced

Feb 2023 • business

Starter was lovely, a pear salad! The main which was a fish dish was awful. Overcooked and chewy and when I complained it wasn’t received well. The dresser wasn’t much better than the main. Wouldn’t bother to eat here again. There are much better places in St John’s to eat.

Written February 14, 2023

This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Cory Abbott

On behalf of our entire team, I would like to apologize for failing to exceed your expectations with your visit. Your satisfaction is important to us as a valued guest. We will be using your feedback to make improvements so that we can provide exceptional experiences for our guests. We hope for an opportunity to host you again in the future.

Written March 23, 2023

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Anita C

1 contribution

Lovely staff, mediocre food.

May 2023 • friends

The service was erratic and poor from the start. I don’t blame the staff as they were extremely hard-working and lovely, there just didn’t seem to be enough of them. The food was very average, and didn’t live up to its description on the menu. It was mediocre in flavor and visual appeal. Given the fine dining prices, I expected much better. The wine selection was decent and well priced. The experience was enjoyable overall, only due to good atmosphere, and the company of good friends.

Written May 27, 2023

This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Cory Abbott

On behalf of our entire team, I would like to apologize for failing to exceed your expectations with your visit. Your satisfaction is important to us as a valued guest. We will be using your feedback to make improvements so that we can provide exceptional experiences for our guests. We hope for an opportunity to host you again in the future.

Written June 21, 2023

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Shawn D

Upper Tantallon31 contributions

Good food but a little expensive

Aug 2022 • family

The atmosphere and decor focused on various musical artists. The music playing was classic rock mostly. Not too loud. I had the trout which was well seasoned and I enjoyed it. Others had the cod and burger. Everyone liked the meals. The desserts were also tasty. Overall we enjoyed our visit.

Written August 13, 2022

This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Cory A

Thank you very much for taking the time to leave us a review. Very glad that you enjoyed your meal and we look forward to seeing you again soon.

Written August 19, 2022

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

yyesiamtrish2

Victoria1572 contributions

Good food and fun decor

Jun 2022 • couples

We didn’t stay in the hotel, but visited this restaurant for breakfast. The food was great, and the service was as well. Really enjoyed the creative decor both inside the restaurant and outside in the hotel lobby area. Very comfortable seating and relaxed atmosphere.

Written June 9, 2022

This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Cory A

Thanks so much for taking the time to share your experience with us. We really appreciate the feedback!

Written July 8, 2022

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Revord

11 contributions

Disappointing Again

Nov 2021 • couples

Similar to last time we tried this place… just OK. Very nice atmosphere and off the charts on interior design and detail, however service and staff knowledge is middle of the road. Also the fact the bar closed at 10 PM was surprising!! Staff informed us it was still on COVID Hours…. 12 PM is more reasonable.

Written November 27, 2021

This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Cory A

Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review. We appreciate all the feedback we receive both good and bad. Very sorry that we didn't meet your expectations on your last visit. With COVID restrictions lifting we hope to return to more regular hours soon. As you can appreciate navigating this pandemic for staffing and operations has been challenging. We hope we can see you again soon.

Written March 14, 2022

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

jeep_girl_00

St. John's2078 contributions

One of the Best in the City ❤️

Feb 2023 • couples

Exile is in my top 3 restaurants for St. John’s. I’ve been dining there 2-5 times a year since their doors opened. It doesn’t matter if I have 1 or 25 guests - everybody always leaves happy with 0 complaints, which is rare! Exile - I love you, you never disappoint! I love the rock & roll vibe; hands down the most comfortable chairs (great if you suffer from back pain); service is always fast, friendly and professional; food is consistent and delicious; I never have to ask for a drink or refill; and you always accommodate my special requests or modifications - you are amazing! You ROCK!

Written February 15, 2023

This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Cory Abbott

Thanks so much for the kind words. We really appreciate you taking the time to share a review with us. Thanks for continuing to support us and we look forward to seeing you again soon!

Written March 23, 2023

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

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