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Jack Astor's Bar & Grill
Categories: Restaurants Canadian (Traditional) Nightlife Bars Canadian (Traditional), Bars [Edit]
184 Chain Lake DrHalifax, NS B3S 1C5
(902) 450-1370
- Hours:
Mon-Thu, Sun 11 am - 12 am
Fri-Sat 11 am - 1 am
- Delivery:
- No
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Private Lot
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Take Away:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Good For:
- Lunch, Dinner
- Music:
- Background, Music Videos
- Best Nights:
- Fri, Thu, Sat
- Happy Hour:
- Yes
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- No
- Coat Check:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Good For Dancing:
- No
- Has TV:
- Yes
- Caters:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
19 reviews for Jack Astor's Bar & Grill
19 reviews in English
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Review from Angela H.
11/11/2011 8 Check-ins Here
I love this location.
I rarely have ever had a bad night here. There's been an odd one but most nights they're top notch.
Of all the restaurant chains there are this has to be one of my favoritres. Their chicken fingers are fresh and never frozen (can we believe that? I'm not sure, but it tastes damn good!), their bruchetta is killer great and the chicken parm bow ties are stellar!
The staff is friendly and I love that all the staff pitch in to run food and drinks. It makes a staff a great team.
The only downfalls to a chain restaurant is that everyone goes there and sometimes on weekends you can wait anywheres from 10 minutes to 45. Major downer. If you are headed to dinner and a movie, check out the flick first, then hit up Jacks. -
Review from Martine M.
Tantallon, NS
7/27/2011
Hubby and I usually drop in for a weekend lunch at Jack Astor's once per month when it is not too busy. The staff there is terrific --- very attentive and friendly.
Most recently, we shared (had to as it is sooo large) the nachos with chili. They were the best ones I have ever eaten!
As a bonus, since I am part of their VIP club, I receive e-mails with coupons and other offers.
Keep up the great job! -
Review from Cassandra M.
Moncton, NB
5/2/2011
Do I feel ashamed for eating here? Maybe
Do I regret it? No.
We ordered take out from here on a lazy Sunday because my husband was going up to Chain Lake and we couldn't splurge on Opa! and I wanted to eat somewhere that New Brunswick doesn't have. So we ordered from here despite of some reviewers comments, which I totally understand. I was hungry.
The food was delicious. I might not be as put off about this place as others because to be honest I had never heard of it and had just noticed it a few days prior whilst driving through Chain Lake. I had no desire to eat in here because I knew what the patronage would be like and I knew it wouldn't be my scene.
But truly, the food was good. The service was prompt and the people were nice. -
Review from Kirk F.
1/29/2011
Not my first choice, but a solid choice nonetheless. I recently went for lunch with a friend. Here's my experience.
First up: a warning. If you're a vegetarian (which I am) this is probably not the restaurant for you. Very limited selection. Even less (nothing?) for vegans. The vegetarian items are also not marked, so you may have to do a bit of hunting.
While the vegetarian menu may be limited, the rest of the menu is quite expansive. Lots of tasty dishes are on hand.
Food:
I had the veggie burger with sweet potato fries (an upgrade). I was a bit disappointed when the burger arrived and I realized there was barbecue sauce. My mistake! It was one of the better veg burgers I've had in a restaurant. I was, however, disappointed the sweet potato fries didn't come with a dip. And the pickle spear was ... not good.
My friend had a chicken wrap with a Caesar salad as a starter. Both looked delicious and she cleaned her plate, so I'm going to assume they were!
Service:
I've only been a few times and while the service hasn't always been memorable, my most recent visit had some great service. All the staff smiled, were friendly and outgoing. As we were there for lunch on a weekday, both the hostess and our waiter asked if we were in a rush (which, if we had limited time, would certainly have been appreciated). Our server Shaun even went to the effort to remind us that if we were getting their apple pie for desert, we should order in advance as it takes time to prepare.
The food was delivered relatively quickly, again with a smile. Staff were easy to chat with which is always a plus.
The customary "How is everything?" came at just the right time as well - a few bites in to make sure we'd had a good taste of everything but not so far in that we were committed.
Ambiance:
While there is a "sports bar" sort of feel to much of Jack Astor's, it's not overwhelming. The paper on the tables is fun for killing time before food arrives, whether you're expressing yourself artistically or playing Tic-Tac-Toe.
An enjoyable experience but not my first choice.Listed in: I Eat in Chains
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Review from D B.
Halifax, NS
4/18/2011
My family went to Jack's this past weekend - the food was great and the service even better. I like that our server said all the servers work as a team so if yours is not in your line of sight you could ask anyone for anything that you needed. The server also made excellent suggestions on what to order.
Hubs had a steak that was cooked to order - he thought it was a bit on the small side but changed his tune later when he left stuffed to the gills! His sides were mashed spuds and veggies and he also ordered a big sundae to end his meal - a lot of food!
I ordered the shrimp pad thai with the sauce on the side - shrimp were big and fresh and veggies also fresh and crisp - the sauce was a little too sweet and bland but OK. Portion was huge and I had enough for lunch the next day - my meal also came with chopsticks which I managed to eat my whole meal with! Yay me! I had a nice glass of merlot and skipped desert!
My DD had the kids Jack's pasta with cheese sauce - a little on the thin side with the sauce but a nice cheesey flavor all around. She cleaned her plate.
I personally feel that most of the restaurants at the Park (Boston Pizza, Jack's, Montanna's and East Side) do very well with all the shops and the movie theatre there. When we left the crowd was lined outside the door to get in. Jack's may not be high class dining but you do get a good meal that is consistently done well. -
Review from Philip H.
Halifax, NS
2/2/2011
Very noisy, unpleasant lighting due to the abundant TVs looping the same videos over and over. I do enjoy the humorous far side comic strips framed on the wall.
I used to go here for the Chicken Fried Chicken. They took it off the menu, but will make it for you for an extra cost, and it's still not the same as it used to be. le-sigh.
Crayons on the table had old food stuck to them... gross. I enjoyed doodling on the paper covered table (with the clean(er) crayons).
Service is quick and I've always had friendly staff there (which is where the 2 stars come from). -
Review from Nick B.
Halifax, NS
2/15/2011
Let's be completely honest. Reviewing a chain restaurant and expecting it to be somehow special is silly. There's no point to it. For a review to be useful, you may as well review a place for what it is.
If you're looking for some unique dining experience, or a quiet, intimate unique setting, you're looking in the wrong direction.
Jack Astor's is successful as a chain for a simple reason - the restaurants get pretty good, and not particularly boring food out of the kitchen to customers efficiently and with friendly service. This location is no exception to the rule. It's a formula that works.
I like Jack Astor's for a couple of reasons for a simple meal. First, the menu isn't boring, but also isn't overwhelming. While it has a lot of staples they do have some neat creations. I can say that I've never really left there disappointed with a meal. Their service is fast, friendly, generally attentive, and that's important. Second, they participate in my employer's WorkPerks program which means I get a 15% discount, which is always good.
It is what it is, and it does what it does pretty well. Not bad as a safe choice... and in Bayer's Lake your choices are pretty much all chains anyhow. -
Review from Jesse G.
Timberlea, NS
1/19/2011 3 Check-ins Here
One of my favourite restaurants, and the one I visit most. The thing that makes this place is that atmosphere and service. They do everything they can to make you feel comfortable, without stifling you. Somehow, me and my boyfriend always manage to get the same server, and he's always talking to us like we're old friends. The tables have paper on them and they provide you crayons, so let your inner artist or tic-tac-toe champion go wild.
The food here is nothing to sneeze at, either. I'm a big fan of their burgers; they're probably the best burgers I've had at a chain-restaurant. They're piled high with cheese and whatever toppings you choose, all on a big hunk of juicy beef. And they toast the buns.
If you're going to eat here, you have to have dessert. I'd recommend the apple pie (order it with your meal, they make it fresh), or the Bailey's fondue. Both are amazing, and I come here half the time just for those.
Awesome food, amazing service, comfortable atmosphere. This is my go to restaurant, and for a reason. -
Review from Shawna D.
Chester, NS
5/28/2010
Jack Astro's was the place to hit for the burger crave. We started with the Garlic Cheese Bread.
The Burgers we exceptional. We did have to wait a bit for a table, but no worries, and if you do have a bit of a wait, they give you a disk that will light up when you table is ready.
The room is loud, this is a family restaurant, but worth the trip and the food is reasonable priced. -
Review from Sarah A.
Halifax, NS
2/14/2011
Why do Chain Restaurants have shipping paper for table cloths!?
I can't think of anything else to do besides play Hang Man, and I highly doubt the servers care that I drew a pair of boobs on there.
Anyway, I guess I could rate all the restaurants that use the shipping paper for table cloths to be worse than this one, but seriously... who eats here!? Well I did, once... and I think I had something wrapped in something else, with a kind of dipping sauce... and it tasted like plastic. -
Review from Laura O.
Halifax, NS
2/1/2011
First of all, I just want to say that I'm absolutely shocked and confused how there are several reviews on here stating that Jack Astor's is their favourite restaurant along with awarding them a five star rating. WOW. Okay. Moving on...
I usually wouldn't eat at a franchise restaurant unless I was absolutely forced to, so yes maybe I am biased, but last night's experience with my girlfriends just reinforced what total crap these kinds of places are and it makes my heart sad that they continue to make so much money while great locally-owned restaurants who support local farmers are struggling. End rant.
I arrived with half of our party to find our other half still waiting at the front of the restaurant, as they have a policy to not seat reservations until half your party is there. I didn't realize Jack Astor's was such a trendy, prestigious and sought-after dining establishment as to make people wait in the front, with no seats, while the doors opened and shut, blowing in freezing winter air. Interesting.
We were seated in the Elvis Booth, which I have to admit I still get a kick out of - when I was in highschool I used to wish for the Elvis Booth and I still thought that Jack Astor's was a nice place to eat. How naive was I? I also used to eat meat back then so of course I had many more menu options than now.
I ordered a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon by the glass and to my delight and surprise, it wasn't off, so I was able to enjoy it. I ordered the vegetarian fajitas thinking this way I would have more control over my meal; I could construct my own fajita, and I knew they would come on a sizzling skillet - how hard is it to screw that up? They did arrive in exactly that fashion along with chopped iceberg lettuce, grated cheddar cheese, sour cream, and salsa (from a bottle). There were also white soft tortillas. The vegetables looked like leftover items from a stirfry (which was also on the menu). There were carrots, zucchini, and snow peas along with the typical onions and peppers. The menu had only outlined the onions and peppers, so yes I was a tad confused, however I gave the other vegetables a try anyway. I had chosen "cajun" as my seasoning but unfortunately I didn't really taste any sort of spice or flavour at all, beyond the sautéed vegetables on their own.
The vegetables tasted old and one of them was definitely starting to go off, as there was a musty taste in my mouth. I suspected it was the green pepper. After my first fajita, I stopped using the carrots and other un-fajita like veggies as I wasn't really enjoying them being in there. It still tasted musty... I am confident it was the green pepper that was going moldy. Ew. No - I didn't say anything... I was hungry. I avoided the green peppers.
When I got my bill I saw that the fajitas were $15.95. Seriously. I am still suffering from a franchise food guilt hangover today. I could have enjoyed a gourmet pizza from Saege for that and instead I consumed old vegetables, salsa and sour cream from bottles, ice berg lettuce and store-bought white tortillas. SHAME.
For those of you that enjoy food from these box restaurants... that's your perogative. Good for you. I just ask that you try similar items at locally-owned restaurants with local produce and real chefs - and you might realize that your favourite burger or pasta is at a whole other level at these establishments. Please? -
Review from Lacey H.
3/31/2010
Somehow on Sunday, post-bowling party, I ended up at Jack Astor's with a group of friends. The Indian Buffet nearby was closed and we were all very hungry after our intense competition.
To all of our surprise, Jack Astor's ended up being a great time. Most of us ordered the veggie burger with either fries or salad and one amigo ordered the regular cheeseburger. Andrew and I opted for a pre-game greasy cheese bread, which was all that and a bag of chips.
The V-burgs were so tasty. Loaded with grilled mushrooms, BBQ sauce, cheese, toms, onions and lettuce plus condiments, with a pickle on the side. Complaints at the table ultimately decided that the pickle tasted like horse, but besides that, all was spot-on.
I ordered a tangy lime beverage, which I quite enjoyed, while the others went with beer and water. Our server was friendly and laid-back and the 30+ TVs made it so we were all hypnotized by the glowing lights and color during our meals.
All in all, a good experience. There are a few veggie/vegan choices and definitely a ton of options if you're willing to eat anything. If I just so happen to find myself here again, I won't complain. -
Review from Darren G.
Lower Sackville, NS
2/15/2011 1 Check-in Here
Party of five on Valentines day need I say more. This was the test. They were geared up for it and the waits were short. Food was excellent and enjoyed by all. My wife loved the Greek salad, one of the best she has ever had. This place has to be one of the best in the chain theme restaurant genre.
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Review from Bethany J.
Halifax, NS
4/9/2010
Jack Astor's is always a guaranteed winner. The menu - although reduced from previous years - is varied enough to provide options for everyone in your party, vegetarian or not.
The last time we were there, my boyfriend had the fish and chips (always a safe choice) and I had the Mediterranean Chicken Focaccia. The fish and chips were amazingly good - the batter tasted as though it had a light coriander touch, which gave it that little something extra. My sandwich was interesting and the pungent goat cheese added a layer of flavour that ordinary cheeses would not have contributed.
Jack's is good any time of day, although if you're headed at dinnertime, consider calling ahead for a reservation. You can order appetizers in the bar, though, so waiting for a table is relatively painless.
Here's a tip: if you're with a group, try to get the round Elvis booth! -
Review from Joshua Y.
Vancouver, BC
10/14/2009
Fun, fun, fun!
Jack Astor's is a blast! The staff are quick on their toes and most of the time very friendly! One thing I love about Jack Astor's which Rob v. mentioned in his Review, is that they give you the electronic disks so you can walk over to Chapters and read some books or magazines while you wait for the signal to head back because a table is ready. I love the food and the service is good enough that, in my opinion, its worth waiting around if you have the time.
The food is all I need to fill me up and it tastes great! The Cheese Garlic Pan Bread is to die for and is a great way to kick off your meal! One downside is Jack's Ultimate Nachos. They aren't that Ultimate in my opinion. They are about as Ultimate as Ultimate Frisbee is. And if you've read my previous reviews you know I am a self proclaimed expert on Nachos. So if Jack Astor's doesn't make the cut you know I take that statement seriously.
What really brings me to Jack Astor's are their Burgers. Senor Jack's Jalapeno Burger is heaven on earth for Burger lovers. And of course you can have a side of fries, soup or salad. And surprisingly enough, the salads aren't that bad. But I have Scottish heritage in my blood so I'm a meat and potato kind of guy. And I am not disappointed when I have their fries.
All-in-all Jack Astor's is a solid family or group restaurant. If you are looking for a "Zen-like," dining experience, this might not be your spot. It is a bit loud, but not overly loud. Their are televisions everywhere and some good music most of the time. If you want some fun while you eat, head to Jack Astor's. -
Review from cheryl d.
Halifax, NS
3/8/2010 1 photo
I love this place! I love the bread, the service, the price and the atmosphere.
If we are looking for a good meal before a movie or if we're looking to catch a bite to eat while our shopping, we most often stop in to Jack Astor's!
I will mention that if you go on a Friday night, be prepared to wait in a long line up! It's the busiest day of the week and every family in metro must go! The waiter/ress writes the time they served you on the table with a crayon as well as their name.
If you go to try the food, you have to order their famous home made bread!! YUMMY! I fill up on it before I usually get my food so most times, I leave with 80% of my meal in a paper bag! -
Review from Ruth D.
Halifax, NS
1/23/2010
Admittedly, when I think of Jack Astor's I immediately think of long lines. And while that usually means the food is good, it also means long waits. So more often than not, after a movie, we look to go somewhere else.
That said, it's a great place to go with kids earlier in the day - no crowds, quick seating, special attention to kids, who actually get their orders in while the rest of us are figuring out what to eat.
As for the menu, it's varied - lots of pub fare and at least five choices of burgers. We didn't really know what the big fuss was about until we ate the Smokey Jack with smokey bacon, mozzarella and a stack of crispy onion straws. My jaw is still locked open from trying to take a bite...just kidding, but it really is hard to do. -
Review from Emily W.
Halifax, NS
11/14/2010
it's a family restaurant so it's a bit louder, but the atmosphere is still nice.
the food is good and priced well, since their portion sizes are HUGE. While you wait for your food, there are fox trot cartoons on the walls in the dining room, and paper to draw on at your table. my husband and i love spinach dip, and theirs is one of the better ones we've had since moving to halifax. -
Review from Rob v.
Halifax, NS
3/6/2009
A regular haunt for us. Always good food, with fast service. Pretty busy on Friday evenings, but they use those electronic disks so that you can wander around the area while you wait for 1/2 hour or so. Unfortunately you CAN'T make reservations.
