You know those days when you just want to pig out and get your hands dirty? Well, have I got the place for you…
If you’re like me, you’ve heard rave reviews about Bookers, drove past it a few times when passing over the 4th Ave flyover, made a mental note to stop next time…and now, years (literally, years) later…you still haven’t been. Well guess what, you’re missing out.
Yes, the exterior is a little “rustic” or “shabby chic” one might say. But, trust me, the inside is a whole different world. And even if it wasn’t, the food is so good that you’ll be whisked down south, totally ignoring your surroundings.
The Mr. and I headed down to Bookers for the big taste. One night I was cruising through the menus, and I thought hey…ribs..brisket..brownies..what’s not to like?! And knew we had to finally make it in.
I chose the $35 three-course menu, which was enough food to feed a small family. And Cole – he splurged for the $60 gourmet menu – which literally was enough food to feed a family!
The host guided us through the industrial space to our table, where we both got to sit on the comfy booth chair (for once). He asked us how long we had been meaning to visit for, and surprisingly said the longest he’s ever heard is 8 years. 8 YEARS. Can you imagine that? We no longer felt embarrassed about admitting it had been 2 or 3 for us.
Our first course was probably the healthiest of all. But when you come to a rib and seafood joint, you’re not thinking about health. I had the salad with a lemon-oregano dressing, while he had the clam chowder.
Our mouths watered as we watched dish after dish served to neighbouring tables. The second “appetizer” was a bucket of crab. Legit.
Normally this would be enough for a meal, each piece slathered in warm, melted butter.
^Probably my favourite shot ever
And then, smoked chicken wings. You know how you usually get about 10-12 measly wings at those other restos? Well, not here. The pile seemed never-ending. By now, you should realize that you better wear those stretchy pants.
Each wing was loaded with soft meat, coated in a mild sauce, and undeniably delicious. If there was any thought in my mind that I should restrain myself, it quickly vanished as I gobbled wing after wing after wing. Luckily, Cole was pretty preoccupied with his array of other courses so he didn’t mind.
Once we were completely stuffed with appys, out came our main entrees. We had hoped to order the brisket but unfortunately it was sold out. That being said, the ribs were excellent. We each ordered a half rack – which meant about 7-8 ribs, meaty, tender, and smokey flavoured.
Paired with the softest mashed potatoes, a creamy coleslaw, and brown beans.
Eating them I began to feel like Francis Underwood, season 1. Totally savage.
Luckily, I wore my most stretchy pair of leggings so I was good to go.
On the verge of the meat sweats, our last course was meat-free and perfect for my insatiable sweet tooth. A warm brownie sundae, smushed into a mason jar, underneath a generous heaping of cool vanilla ice cream. All topped with the most important piece – a maraschino cherry. This place is my JAM.
I will most definitely be back. Considering the restaurant group also owns Vintage Chophouse and Rush, I should’ve known my meal would be fantastic.
Ladies, forget those fancy cocktails and tiny Hors d’oeuvres, and gentleman, I shouldn’t even need to coax you.
Parking is available on the street, and seriously, wear your casual clothes. You wouldn’t want to get a stain on those pretty white shirts (like someone who’s name I won’t mention….)
