I gave three stars merely for the actual experience. The food was only so-so. Dining in the dark was really cool, however. The waiters are all blind, and they know their way around the place very well. It is amazing to see them do it. That being said there were a few times where we were waiting around for a next course or a new drink or something like that. I believe the server forgot about us. We were very entertained with the whole idea of dining in the dark, so it didn't matter as much as it would've at a regular restaurant. read more

My first mistake was coming back to O Noir for a second time in quite a short time span (within a few months of each other) as I feel that this is a place that once you experience it, which all of you should, there's not much else to see (no pun intended). This is not a place I would go to for great food or service as it isn't about that and quite frankly, you won't find either. The waiter hardly visited our table, the food was blah and mediocre (and fairly over priced) and the portions small as my fingers danced around the plate swearing there should be more... I definitely got the wrong app... and I'm sure if I had sent it back, they would have changed it for me no problem, but by the time the waiter came by again, I was thankful I chose to indulge rather than starve as it would have taken far too long to correct this mistake...luckily I'm not a picky eater with no allergies or dietary ristrictions as I can see how messy (again, no pun intended) serving food in the dark can be for an establishment if those involved in plating and serving the food aren't careful. The concept of dining in the dark is cool, fun and unique which I respect but I do think it takes a certain type of person to enjoy their experience here... it is definitely not for everyone. It was my friend's first time here and although we loved the idea and had a great time experiencing this together, we both agreed that it was a one-time-thing and would likely not return. A few final thoughts: our reservation name was not on the sheet upon arrival although we called that day and spoke to someone to make it - luckily this wasn't a problem as it was a monday night and they just added it in. 2) My friend ordered a Heineken and we couldn't help but laugh at the hoegarden in his hand once exiting the dark room (shame on him for not being able to tell the difference...) but come on...this has me wondering what else is not what we ordered in that room..... 3) don't come here if you don't want to feel obligated to tip 18% .... groupon doesn't matter as they add the tip to the total of what the bill would have been prior to the discount.. then you are expected to not only tip on that but to tip 18% .... if this is the case, you better make sure your staff deserves it...... they add it to every bill "at your discretion" (what is the average person going to do?) And word it in a way so you hardly notice....just leaves a bad taste in my mouth. And I'm a server. So I get it. But you're robbing people BLIND (okay, maybe that one was intended). And that is what earned you the 2 star O Noir, auto-grating on a non-existent bill. read more

O.Noir - I ended up paying $50 after the 18% (pretty much) auto-grat on what my bill would have been with no groupon.. - Canadian (New) Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Staff are very friendly, and it's an exciting experience. It helps you disconnect and engage with who you're with and gives you a great appreciation for someone who isn't able to see. Food isn't too bad, calamari wasn't bad. The shrimp is a bit spicy, but they are a good size and they give you 5 or 6 for the entree. It comes with risotto which I found a bit bland, but it helps with the spice from the shrimp and veggies. Overall the food isn't amazing, it's not bad though. It's just the experience that I will remember. Everyone should experience this at least once in their life! read more

AMAZING place to go to in a group. I went with about 12 of my cousins and the meal was absolutely hilarious. The server was funny too- he made us laugh a lot. Completely recommend going here in a group! It is also a bit loud too- must be something to do with how you cant hear so you try make up for it with speaking loudly? The food is okay but the experience is why you go. read more

It was truly an amazing experience. To be able to only use 4 of our senses - touch, smell, hear, and taste. After our meal, the moment we stepped back out I actually felt thankful that I can see. I felt adventurous so I ordered surprise everything (appetizer, main dish, and dessert). It was quite interesting trying to figure out where my food was. I fumbled around and probably dropped food on the table without realizing. I had to feel for my cup of water and napkin. Which wasn't too too bad. The food was only decent, but hey.. I didn't come here for the food. I came here for the experience. Instead of "eating" my food, I was "tasting" it. The service was marvellous and the place was very nicely decorated (can't say for the inside though lol). I would definitely recommend O.Noir. read more

First off I have to say this place is AMAZING!!!! I for sure thought this would have turned out to be a disaster of a night but it turned out better than I expected. When this restaurant first opened I told myself I would NEVER go because I have to be able to see what I am eating. Out of nowhere I decided to post an event of facebook to see how many of my friends would be down to try this amazing concept. I was surprised after minutes of posting I had people confirming. In total 8 of us attend and I think that is what made this tones more fun. I was originally worried about the meal because people told me the food wasn't the greatest, I had the Roasted Red Peppers and Seasonal Vegetables with Goat Cheese for the starter and the O.Noir Filet Mignon Served with Potatoes and Vegetables for the main. I was extremely pleased with how everything tasted. Actually both dishes were delicious and I would recommend either one of them in a heartbeat. The experience, overall the service was incredible. From the start when out waitress Tracy brought us into the room to the the end. I have to admit i started to freak out for the first 30 mins then I got comfortable with my surroundings. Enjoyed laughs, drinks, and a great meal.. Would I return.. Yes.. with just one other person.. not sure.. read more

A novelty experience worth doing once and then perhaps again years later. There is definitely something to be said for eating in total darkness. It is incredible how difficult it is and it makes you realize how reliant on sight you are for the most basic of tasks. I was pretty much useless with a fork let alone finding my wine. Conversation is somehow more intense as you lose all visual cues. There is a collage of noise and, in the darkens, you really have to focus on who is speaking to follow the conversation. It makes for a very unique experience. Unfortunately the food is mediocre at best and that is what downgrades this to a novelty. If more attention was spent on the menu, it could be much more and would be likely something I would do more often or recommend with greater gusto. read more

I'd give O.Noir a fair 3.5 but I'll give the benefit of a 4. My first time! O.Noir was a nice experience, but only slightly underwhelming. I used a Groupon (which can only be used between Mondays and Thursdays) for our meal. The staff was friendly and very helpful. Each waiter seems to manage their own room, and they have a good system of having you navigate and get used to the surroundings. The food was fair, but the experience in the dark is unmatched. I did enjoy my filet mignon. For those with lactose intolerance a word of advice: don't go for the surprise dishes and prepare yourself for the lack of dessert selection. Perhaps O.Noir can provide a non-dairy option or two. Another note, try to keep your eyes closed during your time in the dining room, or else you'll find your eyes getting tired! read more

The whole point about this restaurant is experience eating in darkness. Dont expect much from food. Its good for testing your senses while siting in darkness. But even that, vanishes after a while and you would want to leave at your earliest. Its also expensive: you pay a premium (really) for the experience, not food. Idea of darkness is good, but only for the first 20-30 mins. No more. This restaurant is good for experiencing once. But not somewhere you go often. read more

I went to N. Noir restaurant on Church Street in Toronto last night, and it was an amazing experience. You start by pre-ordering your meal off the menu (appetizer, main course and desert), or you can have the option of ordering a 'surprise meal' which can be anything off the main menu (they will also accommodate you even if you need a gluten free meal) Once this is done, you are advised to shut off your cell phone and remove your watch or any items that hold or reflect light. You are then escorted in a dining room that is completely dark. It is so dark you can't even see your hand in front of your face. Suddenly your senses completely go into over drive. You can hear conversations from other people in the dining room loud and clear and you can smell every dish in that passes by you in the completely dark dining room. It gets even more interesting when you try and guess what you are eating. There were eight of us in our group and only person was able to guess the starter, main course and desert. The food is very good (not for gourmet pallets) but still very tasty and reasonably priced for a Toronto restaurant down town. Eating in the dark with nothing but your knife and fork (ok I cheated a couple of times and used my fingers) and drinking from a glass you can't even see is also a bit of a challenge,but it is the experience you are going to remember. I would definitely recommend this restaurant for a birthday party celebration or even if you just want to a restaurant experience that is fun and unique! The 4 stars are for the service and experience but I would give the food and menu selection 3.5. read more

Such a wonderful and cool experience! Loved the entire concept of the restaurant, the entire staff was extremely friendly, and the food was amazing! I'm a vegetarian, and they were super accommodating with my mean (as I told them that when I arrived). As others have said - if you're not used to eating in the dark, I'd recommend wearing something you don't mind spilling on! read more

Gavin was awesome! Really down to earth and friendly. He made the experience enjoyable and relaxing. His instructions were clear and he genuinely seemed happy while working. The overall dinning was pretty good. It is something I recommend trying for sure. The food was not very good nor we the wine; but I feel no one is really going for just the food. I suggest going with an open mind and embracing the experience. It really helps to show you where you may be lacking in your communication skills. Tip: you get to pick your menu options before being led to the dark dinning room. read more

5 stars for the concept... i have never eaten in complete darkness 1 star for the food. Everything was salty and tasted like we were eating cafeteria food. I was not "surprised" by the "surprise" meal, it was kinda of boring. 1 star for the decor, it was a stuffy basement restaurant (not in the actual dark dinning room, but in the entrance bar area) We ate late, so when we left we noticed that one of the servers who was leaving at the same time was actually not blind (not that it was advertised that she was but she was wearing dark sunglasses in the restaurant)... again Im not accusing just highlighting. read more

Incredible experience. The darkness goes beyond what I had expected. Based on the food alone, I would only have given the restaurant 2 or 3 stars, but the experience itself was well worth four stars. I don't feel like I'd ever need to do it again, but highly recommend doing it at least once. read more

If you want the best meal of your life this isn't the place....and you'd be missing the point if that's what you were looking for.....but....THIS PLACE IS AWESOME! I went on a second date with someone that was by far one of the most scary, hilarious, cool experiences and definitely made for a funny story to tell my friends for days after. Don't let any negative reviews sway you- just go..with friends, with a boyfriend, or on a casual date! It made for a totally cool way to get to know someone. I'll definitely go back with friends for sure! read more

Two stars for the idea and "experience" No stars for the food, drink, atmosphere (the crowd) The concept of ONoir is enticing - dining in pitch darkness to stimulate your other senses, and to experience blindness. You think that with this concept, they would pay more attention to food quality and menu options. If my other senses are supposed to be heightened, then wouldn't it be a swell idea for the food to be creative, stimulating and well prepared? While my friends and I were initially excited about what was going on - that pitch darkness can be spooky (if you have anxiety, beware) we settled into disappointment and frustration as soon as the drinks came. I got the surprise starters, dinner, dessert and drinks. The drinks I received were watered down concoctions that didn't suit the food. My starter, rubbery calamari feeling alive on the plate while I wrestled with it using my fingers (gross!). My dinner, a sliced up, dried out steak with potatoes. Way too dry and salty. Dessert, a overloaded chocolate cake so decadent, it became nauseating. Try using your fingers to determine where the rest of it is - I can imagine my hand appeared as though covered in.... crap That being said, YEAH! the food isn't so good. The experience can be interesting through ---- especially if you're on a date. The wait staff is difficult to track down (you literally have to yell). However, the servers are legally blind - that adds to the interesting experience and if you can manage to yell one down, the conversation can be stimulating. Staff should consider cutting off some peoples alcohol intake. The amount of rowdy individuals yelling and screaming (seemingly drunk) was ridiculous, pretty much ruined any "profound" dark moments we had. Maybe the one in Montreal is better... EDIT: The calamari as claimed by comment never existed, yet unmistakeably I had it. It is in fact still also listed on the website for the Toronto restaurant under starters. read more

Overrated and overpriced. Valid for a one time experience but that's about it. The whole experience took over 2,5 hours. We were most of the time thirsty (wine and water are not served as often), hungry (there was a break of 40 min between appetizer and entree) or annoyed. The food was okay but the dessert was gross: it tasted like frozen dessert and a bad quality tasteless ice cream. I expected way more paying a total bill of +150 for 2 people (we had wine). read more

Absolutely a MUST experience. I was SO nervous going in but turned out to be one of the best experiences. Food was DELICIOUS!!! Had the meat surprise - toooo good, chicken breast with potatoes and veggies and dessert dark chocolate mouse. My oh my it was delicious! I was quite hesitant after the reviews but glad I went with an open mind!! This experiences makes you really appreciate something we may take for granted every day! read more

Last evening, I attended O'Noir Toronto, (my 4th or 5th visit). I was with my girlfriend, (2nd visit), and her daughter, (1st visit). We were seated, our servers were Gavin and Taylor. About 10 minutes after we were seated a large group (approx 12), of 20 somethings, (from their voices etc), were being led in. The server had to stop part way to their tables to tell them to settle down, as they were being so loud, they couldn't hear his directions. They finally got seated and were being very loud, beginning to ruin our experience. One of the males kept pulling out his cell phone. He was warned twice, the "lady" seated with him, said he was deaf and didn't understand. The server said someone either needed to convey that he couldn't use his phone or take it away, as it was ruining everyone else in the room evening. Obviously, this person didn't get the message and pulled out his phone yet again. at that point the server, (I believe it was Taylor). Told the group that they had been warned and that they would have to leave. Miraculously, the "deaf" person said "ok ok it is away, I NOW know your serious". It made no difference, the server stood his ground and advised the group to get up and he would lead them out of the room. Most of them did so. The now "cured" deaf person, took out his phone and used the screen light so he and his "lady" friend could make their own way out, (which still took a few minutes as he couldn't even with the light find the door!! SHAME on this "lady" trying to use the excuse that he had a disability, in an establishment that employs people who are sight impaired! That is a REAL class act there. The servers were VERY apologetic for the remainder of our stay, despite us telling them it was NOT their fault and that they handled it with TRUE PROFESSIONALISM. Kudos to Taylor and Gavin for standing their ground and ensuring the remaining guests had a great experience!! As usual, the food was fantastic. I had all three "surprise " courses. My GF, had the Fillet, which while ordered Medium was a little scorched on the outside. The girl had Vegetarian stir fry, (she needed a to go container as she couldn't finish it all, the server said that is their second largest dish, with the pasta being the largest)..lol We WILL be back, again. read more

O Noir is an incredibly unforgettable dining experience. Partly because of the company that I came with and the dining in the dark concept. I have heard from friends that went about their experiences prior, but I was not prepared for how it would feel to be in total darkness. The first 5 minutes that I was in the dark was really scary. I felt completely out of control and I was telling the server that I needed to leave. The server, Dave was reassuring and said that he would bring me out if I felt uncomfortable after a few minutes. I found that closing my eyes helped a lot, because it was the feeling of having my eyes open and not being able to see that was really scary. I went with a big group and we had 8 at the table. I didn't know many of the people as it was with a social group. I thought that it was fine, I could hear everyone at the table and getting to know people in the dark is also a unique experience. The food was good and they cut the meat up to make things easier. I recommend getting the surprise dishes because it was fun to guess what I was eating. The best part of the experience was when the entire restaurant sang happy birthday together. I'm not sure how common this is as the social group that I was with really made that happen when we joined in with the waiters that were singing. I would definitely go back and I think it would be a good date restaurant too. read more

I am only giving O Noir a 4 based on the food (which I would rate a 3), however, I do think that it's an experience that everyone should try! (If you don't know yet, it's pitch black!) It may seem dark when you walk in- you'll find out why soon! You order drinks outside in the "lobby" area, and the waiters bring you into a a pitch black room. My eyes didn't calm down the whole time I was there, I saw flashes of light and weird optical illusions. It's unbelievably weird not to see anything. I almost panicked at one point, but didn't. You hear more than you normally would- some tables would start to get loud and you'd find that you'd be matching their volume. The waiters were great. I loved the "intro" they did, where they showed you where to find everything and touch to the right and left of your plate, etc. It was very helpful and reassuring for later. The food was mediocre. I had an appetizer and main, and some members of my party had a main and dessert. There was nothing wrong with the food, but it was relatively bland. You don't go for the food. The experience is worth it. If I ate the food for that price anywhere else, I would be very disappointed, however, do it once, with a group, for the sake of going. (When you come out, the "dark" room is so bright that it hurts your eyes! (You need to get adjusted before you can exit the restaurant!) Really awesome waiters, though. And make reservations! read more

Firstly: Don't go with a Groupon. Save yourself the surprise of the cost and the hassle when you pay for your meal. It DOES state on the Groupon that you should tip on the actual value of the meal and not the discounted bill, plus you have to pay the tax (but we were so rushed out that I can't tell if it was for the discounted bill or the full price). In the end, you literally spend 100+ dollars WITH the Groupon, and they show you what your actual bill would have been without the Groupon before tip-- and it's literally the exact same price. So, literally, all you "save" with this deal is what you would have paid for tip on a regular priced meal- so 15 or 20 bucks. You save 15 or 20 bucks if you go on a Monday-Thursday. That is the deal. That's what the deal should have been. Some deals have the "tax not included" in their vouchers, but I think they should just do away with it altogether- it's too confusing and it's written so small that so many people miss is and then are blindsided when they arrive at the venue and have to pay the tax. Some places (like the ROM, concert venues, etc.) don't charge you extra tax when you get there. What you pay for your Groupon is your ticket in the door. End of story. ANYWAYS... Our server, Gavin, was lovely and very accommodating. The food was alright, but definitely not worth 100 dollars for two people. I had the roasted veggies with goat cheese (yum), filet mignon (cooked perfectly, but too over-peppered by the chef) with veggies and potatoes (meh), and the chocolate cake with vanilla ice cream (average). My boyfriend had the mushroom salad (good), filet mignon (too peppery but cooked perfectly) and the fruit sorbet (amazing). I guess you pay for the experience, but walking in to that dark room hand in hand with your server is a completely individualized experience and everyone deals with it differently. I'd recommend you test yourself out at home first before paying 100 dollars for this because it could definitely be hard to handle for some! read more

I would never return to this restaurant. The server was the best part about this meal, he was kind and very funny. The food was over dressed with salad dressing to start and the main course showed up with frozen vegetables and over cooked food. For the price you pay, the food was awful. I would relate this experience to warming up a frozen hungry man in the microwave. Never again read more

My now boyfriend booked O.Noir for our first actual date so this place is very special to me. I read a lot of mixed reviews as well as watched some YouTube videos as to what to expect since I'm not good with the unknown. We got to the restaurant which was downstairs and it was dim inside. When you get in there's a bar area where you can have drinks to wait to be brought to the rooms. We also ordered our meals at the bar area before we went into the dark. The cost was $39.95 for a 3 course meal or $32.95 for a 2 course. We both had the 3 course surprise meal. At first I wanted to order the items but then I thought to myself why not get the surprise meats it's not everyday that I come to this place. You do have the option of not picking the surprise meal if you're not adventurous. The servers were all fully or partially visually impaired in the dark rooms. There are 2 area one side for large groups and one side is more intimate I guess for couples. We went to the couples side and basically have our hands on the shoulder of the server and followed him into a pitch dark room. All camera and flashlight had to be turned off before you entered the room. The server will guide your hands the entire meal as to where the table, chairs, cutlery and drinks are. At the beginning it was hard to adjust but after awhile your eyes are more adjusted but you still can't see. It's pretty cool since your smell and taste senses heighten and the food was amazing. I had wine with my meal which was an adventure trying to not spill each time I reached for my glass. Our first surprise course was grilled octopus it was delicious. Our surprise mains was steak. It was cut for us so that we can just eat it. I had to use my other hands to guide me to the food and to my mouth. Third surprise course was chocolate cake. So good. Not sure if it was a good idea for the first date since you can potentially have food all over your face and clothes by the time you were done. My boyfriend tried to be sweet and fed me in the dark but the food went into my cheek! Lol when you're done the server guide you back out and you're pretty much blinded by the bright light. It was an amazing experience, service was great and the food was fantastic! I highly recommend everyone to come experience O.Noir! read more

This place was definitely a must try when visiting Toronto. All the staff are blind, so you are given a dining experience from their perspective. There's nothing like it where I'm from so I would totally recommend to tourists. The food was good, and it was fun trying to use silverware without sight, as well as, using your taste to figure out what you tasted in your steamed vegetables. read more

What an experience it was! Loved this place. Defiantly worth going to for the experience not so much for the food. The surprised vegetarian was delicious but not so much a fan of there penne pasta with cream sauce. The waitress was really nice and she gave us good directions as to where to sit and walk. Also, where our drinks and food is. I couldn't have asked for a better night spending it in the dark with other strangers not knowing what we're going to eat..good laughs and wine spilled at the end of the night lol. A day in the life of a blind person, thankful for having my eye sight! read more

I had once heard of a restaurant concept where you dine in complete darkness. But I had no idea until a friend told me that such a experience could be had here in Toronto. Hence, O.Noir. It is indeed an interesting and unique concept for the uninitiated. I'd highly recommend making a reservation, since there are two scheduled dinner service hours each night. Don't fess too much about what to wear, because who cares what you're wearing when you're eating in the dark (and you might get food on your shirt). Upon arrival, you place your order beforehand, and you're also free to have a drink at their dated circa-1970s bar (which thankfully is lit). Then your blind server will call your party, introduce oneself by name, and lead you into the dining hall, seating you each of you individually and giving you clear instructions on what to do and to expect. Indeed it is pitch-dark inside--like, there's not even a lit EXIT sign in sight. "Awesome decor," indeed. My dining buddy admits to feeling freaked out and claustrophobic at first, but adjusted well to the scenario after a few minutes of chatter and a drink. I kept my cool. Your server will bring your meal and it's up to you to figure out if it is what you ordered and how or if to use utensils in the dark. Our server was very accommodating. But service within the whole establishment generally is slow. You wait forever between courses. I wonder if they intentionally structure the timing of the meal to make it easier for the servers to do their jobs, since it seems like most other diners got their entrees or whatever at around the same time. The food overall was quite enjoyable and filling, but not extraordinarily great. My dining partner thought everything in his mouth was wonderful. But I thought the food within our dining context and for the price left a lot to be desired. Notwithstanding other people's comments on the food quality, I'd thought they'd be full of imagination and put a lot of emphasis on being creative with exploring taste. Sure why not, since in the absence of light one cannot "eat with their eyes"--for I can care, the dishes could look like fresh dog crap (and of course I wouldn't know it) but taste like heaven (probably a bad example, but the 'Iron Chef' episode of Futurama comes to mind). But nope. The menu, which is prix-fixe, is very small, but also includes the option of a surprise course (I had a surprise desert). O.Noir is a very fun and novel, unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience worth checking out nonetheless, even in its gimmicky-ness, and may leave you having a bit more respect for the visually impaired (even for someone like myself whose lifelong extreme nearsightedness scares a lot of friends). But as a restaurant concept, O.Noir is certainly a culinary opportunity that hasn't been exploited well. {Located on SW corner Church and Charles St, below-grade entrance. TTC: a short walk on Church from Wellesley subway station... or an even shorter walk from Bloor/Yonge station.} read more

A really cool experience, and the food was not nearly as bad as some reviewers said. Food is not scalding hot, but that is for safety reasons, I am sure. Its interesting to *see* what you notice without your sight. And having a blind waiter, in itself, was a fascinating experience! He knew exactly where the table was... where I had to reach out with my hands to find the table and my chair. My friend and I both went for the roasted red peppers for the appetizer, filet mignon for the main, and chocolate cake and ice cream for dessert. All the food was tasty, and the steak was a perfect medium rare as ordered. Again, the food is not able to be kept warm on hot plates, so it cools down quickly, but it arrived at our table warm, not cold. The piece of cake was tasty - but huge... it was only when I ran out of ice cream and could still feel cake on my plate that I realized how big a piece it was... couldn't finish it! If you are up for a fun and fascinating experience, give it a try. But if you expect a gourmet dinner, and can't appreciate the fun, this is not the place for you. read more

One of the best experiences that I have ever had. Both my friend and I decided it was the best thing that we did on our trip to Toronto. We had two courses, the surprise appetizer with steak and then with pasta. The filet ranks in the top five meals that I have eaten. I would definitely go again, and keep telling everyone about what a wonderful time we had. I wish we could redo it now that we're back in NYC. If I ever make it back to Toronto we will certainly be returning. As many times as we can!! read more

I really wish I could give this place a better review! If they'd improve the food and get rid of the mildew smell, It'd be 4 stars or better. For $32, the only thing edible was the steak and the starter salad, but you know what? To dine in the dark, to help employ people with a disability, to know that 5% of your dinner profits go to charity? I think its worth it. Here's my long review: It's very cool being in 100% darkness. Only twice did I accidentally put my hand into the food. Unlike most others, I used my fork and I did a good job clearing my plate. It was also fun was attempting to "cheer" with our wine glasses. Our server, Diana, did a great job. She asked us if we were ready for our mains and gave us extra time when we weren't. Brought us extra napkins and asked the table next to us to try to keep it down a bit. Great server. Negatives: the lighted bar area is pleasant, but inside the restaurant you are instantly hit with the smell of mildew. But where we sat it didn't smell as strongly and I was able to ignore it. It's very noisy inside when there's a big group. Also, some people don't turn their cellphones off (despite 3-5 requests). Please do this! It's very annoying to see someone's cellphone flashing across the room. The food: I recommend the steak and a salad (maybe ask for "light" dressing.) I had the Octopus to start and it was so disgusting that I was going to send it back. It was the bartender's recommendation, too! My friend, who is far too polite, traded me for his surprise starter, which wasn't bad. Just some marinated roasted red peppers and cherry tomatoes, arugula and a balsamic vinigrette. For the main, I had the steak, which was really tender and nicely seasoned. It's supposed to come with potatoes and veggies. Since reviewers said they were awful, I asked for the risotto - big mistake! The risotto was so bland and completely overcooked. I got a few side veggies and they were edible. We skipped dessert, but had the pinot prigio, which was drinkable. I think everyone should come here at least once. It's a fun and novel experience and it helps that they have a charitable angle. Maybe I'll try the one in Montreal next time! read more

Came for my boyfriend's birthday. The seafood was really good. We had the surprise seafood and I had shrimp risotto, they had a reaaaaally nice charred barbecue taste I loved it! The wine recommended was amazing as well. Our waiter was really nice too! It was kinda difficult to eat not knowing where everything is but it was an interesting experience. The only downside was waiting over 30min for the main course, I was starving! read more

Very cool experience. Who knew eating in the dark would be so difficult and fun. read more

I went there almost a year ago.. I think the experience is one of a kind, and anyone should experience it at least once in their lifetime. Food is definitely only mediocre,and it is overpriced for the quality. Since there are limited choice on food, I think that it should be amazing, but its not. How can you charge people so much, but the food is not at its best quality? I could get better tasting food elsewhere for a cheaper price. If they want customers to come back, they should improve on their food. Or reduce their price. Otherwise, customers will just go there for the experience,and never come back. The service is good though. Thumbs up for that. read more

Very interesting experience. The food not so much. I ordered the shrimp and risotto dish, the shrimp was burnt and risotto was bland. The veggies on the side were plain green beans. Definitely not worth the price. Dave was a friendly waiter. read more

The experience of eating blind is great fun, albeit a little messy. It's something I recommend anyone interested try. However, it's probably not worth the return visits. Most people I talk to complain about the food. I understand that as a restaurant food is most important. But in my opinion, you don't come to. O.Noir for the food, you come for the experience. As far as the food goes, "Fine" is the best word I can think of. Wasn't bad, but wasn't great. When you can't see, there's a comfortability in predictable food. Especially stuff that's not too gross to eat with your hands My favourite part of the dinner is being brought in making a chain with all the diners' hands. As well as being oriented to find the cups and cutlery. My friends and I were laughing at each other when we first tried to eat. Everyone went in expecting to use their cutlery, but most of us used our hands. It was funny how loud we would talk even when we knew everyone was at the same table. While we consciously understand that people are there, it's hard for our bodies to figure that out. However, as a restaurant that specializes in dining without the sense of sight, O.Noir does very little to play with your other senses. With a heightened sense of touch, you can really feel the cheap furniture and place settings. One dollar plastic placemats and old banquet chairs don't feel great to use at a restaurant that charges $50 a person (and probably saves tons of cash on their electric bill). The room was very loud as well. I don't blame the restaurant for people talking loudly (I was guilty), but if there's a way to soundproof better, they should consider it. Overall, it was a fun experience I'll always remember, but probably not one I'll visit here again. read more

Delicious food and a humbling experience. The whole room was giggling as everyone tried to butter their dinner rolls (I ended up with butter on my lap... I would recommend wearing clothes you don't mind getting a little food on!). We shared a surprise starter and a surprise dessert and we are so glad we did! Ordering a surprise lets you have a little fun with the experience. Our waiter Nazir was great and helped to increase our comfort level with his guidance and explanations. read more

Went downstairs to restaurant area. You check in and then get a menu to look at and decide what you want to eat. Only one person going around taking orders so it was a bit of a wait until we had ours taken. Then you line up, meet your server then go inside into the dark. Server was Dave and he was really friendly and kind. Inside- tables and chairs seem of somewhat cheaper quality - no tablecloth and you get tissue napkins instead of cloth ones. Big gap between meals as well so our entire meal was 2 hours. We all ordered the three course meal. Mine was surprise vegetarian. Food was cooked well and well seasoned but the quality is average. I'd say for the price it was average but you're paying for the experience here. The experience was worth it. It's hard to eat without seeing what you're eating! Try eating a salad in the dark with a fork! We ended up using one hand and one fork haha anyways it was a neat experience. read more

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First of all. I have soooo much respect for who ever came up with this idea. This place is all about EXPERIENCE. Dont be picky about the food. Its not WOW but its just fine. Go there for one of the most unbelievable experience in your life time. You will appreciate it. read more

Food was horrible, my steak tasted like meat loaf smothered with salty gravy. Noise level was way too high not a place where you can enjoy your meal. Please don't bring your date there if you're trying to impress her. My salad was cucumber, tomatoe and onions and feta cheese .... puke .. I can make better salad than that. I had a slice of caramel cheese cake to go only because I couldn't stand the nuisance of people talking over one another. Believe me when I said your local bakery would of been better. 3 course meal and my total damage was $50 :/ Yeappp ... feeling getting wripped off with nasty cafeteria food. By all means give it a shot. But you might as well throw in a microwave dinner and shut off the kitchen light and pretend you're there. Ps: Are all the servers really blind ????? Makes me ponder ???? Pss: I wanted to rate them (-) stars, guess that's not possible read more

My friends wanted to come here and I was a bit nervous since I never ate in the dark before. We had to walk downstairs and there is a hall way before checking in with the hostess. Then we are at the bar where we place our order. The restaurant is pretty dim and I didn't really know why but that's makes sense because after eating in the dark for an hour, your eyes are not adjusted so the bright light would be painful. The food was pretty good. I felt pretty adjusted to the atmosphere and it was fun. I also sat next to the wall so that helped. Like others have said, you don't really come here for the food and the portions. I did like my food though. I had the octopus salad, filet mignon and chocolate mousse. The filet mignon was precut so that helped. The chocolate mousse was a bit too sweet though. I don't know if I would come back though but the experience was good and the food was enjoyable. read more