Fernwood Inn
1302 Gladstone Ave.
250-412-2001
I’ll start with the positive feedback. Fernwood Inn has a great neighbourhood -watering- hole vibe. The server we had was bubbly and friendly.
I had the jerk pork sandwich and salad. I thought the basic flavours were good, but I found the aftertaste to be of resounding allspice. Good jerk should be balanced, with a nice savoury, sweet and spicy combo.
The few times I have been to the Inn, it seems there is an unpleasant odour in the air. Bathrooms? Maybe I’m just sensitive to smells, but it’s the first thing I noticed when I walked in. The price is on the higher side, and the execution on the food could use a bit more finesse. For a pint and some appies, can’t go wrong. Especially when their patio is open for the summer.
I grew up in Fernwood and am well aware of all the changes in this hood especially the Fernwood Inn ( past George and Dragon). The Fernwood Inn has a really good vibe going. I have had good experiences but I have had an equal amount of not so good experiences and that brings me to write this critique. There are a few servers there that need a refresher course in customer service or they should get out of the business. I was there last night for a drink and a snack with my brother and we both agreed that our servers attitude was one of “doing us a favor”. Not much more than an “order taker”. Asking a question about menu items was like pulling teeth. There was an effort to crack a smile but 0 personality. I felt like I was taking up his time. Also, when we needed a little attention (something was missing with our order) servers were walking around, I was trying to make eye contact, wave, call “excuse me” and got up to approach any sever to help complete the order.
I have had great food there and it is worth going for the entertainment on Thursday evenings. But unless they address there Nacho’s ($16 minimum) DO NOT waste your precious money. Lacking in the love to prepare this simple dish (boring and little attention to the presentation) but if you love corn niblets on your nacho’s fill your boots cause there is plenty of them as the main topping.