Barrington Steakhouse&Oyster Bar

Very nice restaurant. Lots of space between tables to allow for privacy. Food and service were both excellent.

When we passed this place on one of our many treks in Halifax we knew we had to check it out. So we made reservations and indicated that we were celebrating my birthday. We were impressed when we got there, great atmosphere. However, after a while got tired of the atmosphere as it took forever to get our meals. Now I understand the kitchen gets busy, but at least keep us informed. They did bring us some bread to tide us over, but two small pieces just does not cut it. We finally got our steaks, and they were perfect, worth the wait, but by that time, we were starving. Being a birthday celebration, I thought we would get some kind of dessert. Instead, a card signed by staff and a gift card for oysters or a glass of bubbly on our next visit by the end of the year. Since the restaurant is located downtown in a tourist area, they must realize we would not return. Very cheap gesture on their part. I know that if we returned to Halifax would not bother with this place.

Our reservation was for 7:45pm. Restaurant wasn’t full but apparently there were 2 large parties. It took an hour before we received any food and that was just bread. An hour and forty five minutes before we got our appetizers. Our server apologized and said that the 2 parties had placed extensive orders and ours got in behind theirs. At 10:15 one of our group went downstairs to ask when the kitchen closed and was told it closed at 10pm! We’d had enough and asked for our bill and although a staff member said our food was “being plated” but our patience was at an end. If the kitchen couldn’t cope with the pressure of a less than full restaurant, then they’re in the wrong business.

We went here for my birthday, and the steak was delicious. Comparable to Texas steak where we come from. However, the environment was very noisy and full of kids, which I couldn't believe you would bring kids to this expensive steakhouse. Our waiter was very friendly, and asked if we were celebrating something, and we told her, and we thought they would do something special. Like, give a free dessert or something like that. But nothing special was done. However, she was very nice. If you are looking for a good steak, this is a great place. However, just beware that the night we went, there were 2 tables with a bunch of kids, and they were upside down in the chairs, running, jumping over each other in the booths, and just out of control, it was not a romantic place at all.

I have been here maybe 4 or 5 times now in the last 4 months. I am not a steak eater so I can 't review their full meals. However, I go for their oysters with in house migonette and housemate 'cocktail sauce '. Their oyster selection is always top notch and accompanying bits are excellent. The ambiance is perfect for a date; conscious of price points, but I mean, Steak and oysters date night! The service however is where this review is really set. Their staff are outstanding. My first visit I was wary on my attire, jeans and a reasonably nice top. No jusgement, no eyebrows, perfect service. Next few times similarly dressed in jeans or leggings with some sort of casual top. Always always friendly server 's and front of house staff. I generally have come after I have been to the gym (yes showered and clean clothes) and tonight i was dressed quite relaxed with a hoodie and jeans. The staff did not treat me any different and were absolutely outstanding, friendly, informative and knowledgeable on my few questions. I always ask questions about tiny menu/recipe (migonette) changes. I have been served by a number of their staff and they are all wonderful. 100% recommend if you are looking for a treat for yourself, a date might, or just a glass of bubbly and some oysters (Tip Sip).