Being early is key. We generally leave the office at around 11:30am and it's just under a 10 minute walk to get there (230 11th Ave SE, Calgary, AB). Unfortunately due to some meetings running overtime, we ended up leaving at 11:45am this past Friday and that resulted in a 30 minute wait at the restaurant for our party of 6. During this wait, I'd have to say I've never seen such customer service. The hostess was considerate, apologized for the wait but kept coming back to check on us (with a big smile!) and gave us frequent updates on when we would be seated. When we were finally seated, we actually had to split up into a group of 4 and a group of 2. They attempted to place us somewhat right beside each other which was hilarious (and thoughtful!), but I didn't mind this at all. I just wanted to sit down and order because I was famished.
I ordered the Smoked Meat Shepherd's Pie the first time I visited Grumans (shown below). At $15, this was well-priced for the huge portion it came in. The swirl effects from the baked mashed potato crust added to the presentation of the dish and once I took a bite of the mash, it was heaven in my mouth. The salad was interesting because the dressing was actually served warm. I didn't realize I'd enjoy warm dressing until now - this is going to have to be something I try when I make my own salads at home! I usually dislike how "cold" salads make me feel, this is mainly why I stopped making them for lunch. I realized with the cold winter days we have to endure at the moment, a cold lunch was not what my body enjoyed. So this seems like it could be the solution to getting fit from a "warm" lunch! The Montreal smoked meat within the pie was hearty and warm, with just the right amount of seasoning to not overpower the taste. Sure enough, I was so full that I basically walked back to the office dreaming of a nap.
During my second visit, I decided to try one of the many sandwiches. They all sounded so good but I decided to go with the $13 Old Fashioned Montreal Smoked meat sandwich (shown below). I'm beginning to see a trend ... The food came out within 10 minutes - so quick! I was starving since it was almost 12:30pm at this point. I didn't realize the amount of meat in this sandwich would be TREMENDOUS, as you can see from the layers and layers and layers of smoked meat. It was served on rye bread (yum!) with a layer of mustard. Personally, with the amount of meat that was in this, I would've liked to have a few more layers of mustard. I actually started to dip my sandwich in the ketchup that I was dipping my fries in. My boyfriend had ordered gravy for his fries and I was curious to try it, but that resulted in quick regret. Unfortunately, the gravy must have changed since the last time we came, because it had a very bitter taste to it which was not as appreciated by my taste buds. As it came to no surprise, I was stuffed after I finished this delicious sandwich. Yes I finished it. I debated eating only half of it and bringing the rest back to the office for a late afternoon snack. But I figured I might as well conquer this beast of a sandwich all at once.
We are going to be using Grumans as catering for a meeting next Monday. I've ordered the "Famous" Mac and Cheese, Smoked Meat Shepherd's Pie and the Three Cheese Spinach Ricotta Lasagna. Can't wait to taste it all! In the mean time, if you're thinking of a new place to check out for some delicious reasonably-priced food, take a visit to Grumans!
