Going to this place is like diving into a time warp - faded decor, stale carpets, cane & walker dependent clientele. It's not meant to be insulting or ageist but upon entrance to the restaurant it feels like living a relic of history back a few decades ago.
At the same time I was told from independent sources that it's a family owned business that manages to hang in over decades in sea changes. I have also heard good reviews about this place thru word of mouth in accidentally and unexpected contexts. I have also accompanied older folks on a few occasions here when this place remains their favourite one.
During those occasions - I think the food is competent at a competitive price point. Service is excellent without being intrusive. Overflow parking available at the back is a bonus but generally not a problem in the area anyway. If one can get over its retirement home ambiance (which I managed to - if food is the main item of consideration) I think Windfield's punches above its weight.
The garlic bread was decent - and on the house -- but you can order more -- essentially all you can eat. I thought that was quite generous. And I find that bread more than adequate and have no complaints vs other finer restaurants around the area. I have tried their NY steak as well as roast beef. The NY steak that I order is often made/defaulted more Chicago style and medium rare and which I appreciate. I have had the roast beef on one occasion which was overcooked and without hesitation the waitress got one for me another piece which was medium to medium rare. I was told by my party however that pork chops have been consistently overcooked and on the tough side and dry. Fries were just mass-produced frozen fries. The drink menu is limited but not restrictive but given the venue never expected this to be a wine cellar. Desserts are on par with better establishments based on feedback and having tried it thought were decent.
In the end it's competent niche, and offers a wide selection of comfort food for a tailored demographic. The nit-pickings described certainly are not fatal. If only a background lullaby were in play this could be escape heaven - a non-chic inner sanctum within an increasing busy and frantic Toronto that could put even the most serious diner to snooze. read more