XII Old Fashioned is becoming our favorite go to for a fantastic couples night out. Mike has done an exceptional job creating an elevated and elegant dining experience. The food is outstanding and worth any wait for the attention to detail and crafted quality. Live jazz and an intimate setting make the ambiance unique, warm, and inviting. The waitstaff personalizes your evening with thoughtful and attentive service. A definite stand out in the GTA. See Aejaz, he’ll take great care of you!
Right off the bat, I will go out on a limb and say this is a hidden gem of Oakville. Literally and metaphorically. Partly because of its inconspicuous narrow entranceway and partly because everyone I've mentioned it to, has no idea it exists. Because of this, it gives speakeasy vibes, as the passageway opens up into an intimate restaurant complete with bar, booth tables and a small performance space. It's a 1950's whiskey lounge with red brick and dark wood accents, trimmed with pictures of Frank, Dean and Sammy, all in a library style setting. We went there for a birthday celebration with little to no knowledge (or expectation) of what we were in for. My daughter had selected it so we knew it was going to be upscale dining with a hefty price tag! It was, but it was worth it. Our early reservation had us seated first, the restaurant was empty, we hoped that wasn't an omen. Fortunately it soon began to fill up. Our server, Rachel, was pleasant and attentive. She took our order and kept our glasses filled with the upmost efficiency. The only slight negative was the kitchen, lots of cooking smoke entering the dining room and food preparation was slow. It took an hour for our lamb lollipop appetizer to appear. I'd argue it was worth the wait. The lamb was delicious and the mint crema definitely heightened the flavour profile. I had planned to eat two but after the kids raved about them, my wife had a different idea. So I had one and a bit because the woman who didn't want an appetizer "can't eat a whole one!" The unexpected bonus was the piano and singer, crooning out some rat pack classics and appropriately selected Christmas tunes. Both artists sounded marvellous. Self described as an old fashioned restaurant it serves various dishes including both wet aged and dry aged steak options. I actually ordered the 'ol blue eyes burger. My son ordered the 20oz Bone-In Rib Eye, daughter has the Petite Filet and the wife had the Chairman's Greens with a steak. Steak sides selected were the Mac N' Cheese and the Brussel Sprouts. I had a bite of the rib eye and it was juicy and had a good level of marbling. I'm not a Mac N' Cheese guy, I find it an underwhelming addition to North American menus that must have Italians rolling in their graves. However XII's Mac N' Cheese was something else. It wasn't "saucy" but it was "sticky" with a rich, sophisticated cheesey flavour profile. I never order it but would seriously consider ordering it next time. I had a couple of bites but boy was it more ish. Now, onto my dish, an unassuming and reasonably priced burger that packed a wallop. As the 'ol blue eyes name suggested this was going to have an element of blue cheese. It did. I find blue cheese a hit an miss on a burger. When it misses, it's often because it's barely noticeable or on the contrary, noticeable in a bad way. This burger packed a punch, it crept up on you slowly and then slapped you in the face with full on blue cheese goodness. The burger itself was thick and juicy but, like most burgers worth their price tag, the pattie shifted around in its bun and you had a hard time keeping it centred and the whole thing in one piece. Accompanying the burger were truffle hand cut fries. In short, they were banging. Crisp yet fluffy inside with a healthy dose of truffle salt that engulfed the tastebuds... best truffle fries ever. Time to table on these dishes was also lengthy. Our server said that it was being plated but still took another 10 minutes. Though I sound like a broken record but it was worth the wait. As is customary, the boy was treated to a complimentary birthday dessert. He was served the XII Layer Chocolate Cake which was sumptuous. Not too sweet, moist sponge and a good size, enough for four spoons to comfortably massacre. Overall, this was a fantastic dining experience. Price tag was a kick in the wallet but next time we visit, we will leave the over exuberant ordering youngsters at home. And there definitely will be a next time.
Unbelievable. Jazz was our server! He was fantastic, very knowledgeable of the menu and helpful with suggestions. My boyfriend had the ribeye and I had the fettuccine along with multiple starts and sides. Everything was DELICIOUS and had a uniquely delicious flavor. The vibe was perfect for us as well, we loved the speakeasy feel and the live music was lovely. Incredible talent. We will definitely be coming back!
Old Fashioned was a wonderful experience for my husband and I for our Anniversary. From the moment we sat down the service was exceptional, including a celebratory prosecco to start the celebrations thanks to them. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and the live music of piano and singing was beautiful. The steaks were exceptional. I don't think we have ever had more delicious steaks. I would highly recommend for anyone wanting a nice romantic spot, or a higher end experience in a small intimate atmosphere.
Probably one of the best cooked steaks I've ever had . Service was amazing Ajazz guided us through the menu . The owner Mike came out to say hello . Definitely recommend it.
Our first time dining here, and what a treat on a Tuesday!!! We made reservations just in case, and I would recommend making one (even for a table of 2) to ensure prime seating. We sampled a few different cocktails, indulged in scallops and lamb lollypops, split the filet with multiple sides, and then still found room for dessert. Michael and staff made sure all of our dietary restrictions (gf/df) were met and provided a beautiful experience. The space is cozy yet elegant, the food is masterfully crafted without being pretentious, and everything tasted better than expected. Thanks to all at XII for your hospitality, we can’t wait for our next visit to enjoy the live music!
What an overall disappointment this entire dinner experience was. Booked for a 7pm reservation to celebrate a birthday. Quoted ten minute wait which turned into waiting an hour for a table. Dinner service then took 2.5 hours. Food was okay but not worth the long wait. Crab cake appetizer was decent, steak was chewy, dessert less than average. Disappointed the manager never came to our table even when the restaurant had quieted down. Birthday never acknowledged. Our server was apologetic and sweet, but service was slow. Unfortunately, cannot recommend this restaurant after really looking forward to this dinner.
XII - Old Fashioned Restaurant is a Canadian Restaurant based in Oakville, Ontario. XII - Old Fashioned Restaurant is located at 151 Lakeshore Rd E, Oakville, ON L6J 5C3, Canada.
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