Champs - Peterborough

We stopped here for lunch while passing through. The staff was friendly. I had the turkey avocado wrap with fries. The wrap was tasty and fresh, the fries were nothing special. My son ordered the chips and salsa, which I had to taste since the presentation was different to what I’ve seen before. The salsa is warm in a small cast iron skillet. It had a great flavor with a little bit of heat in the back but nothing overpowering. I did not have a bite, but my husband enjoyed the Chinese salad. We would come again if our son is with us since he has a picky palate but would choose to go elsewhere and try food with a little more pizazz.

I lived in Peterborough for many years and last week returned with my wife for a visit and a Petes game. After the game we stopped at a local sports bar that I knew of called Champs. The place was almost empty except for a couple of guys sitting at the bar, we weren't there 10 minutes and had just ordered our drinks when one of those guys came over and helped himself to a chair at our table and started to make advances toward my wife. In his hapless pursuit he told her that he was the owners brother in a feeble attempt to try to impress her. He proceeded to talk suggestively and wink at her. We got up and walked out without waiting for our order or paying. It was one of the most disturbing experiences of my life. Shame on the owner of Champs for letting this louse of a brother hang out and harass his customers and their spouses. He was like a predator lying in wait.

We originally planned to dine at another restaurant, but it was too crowded and we couldn't wait. Remembering our previous experience at Champs, we decided to give it another shot and we were glad we did. The service was relaxed and friendly, the ambiance was laid-back, and the food was excellent.

The food was average, to the point where I can't even recall what I ordered. The restaurant itself felt unclean. The service was decent.

We have been loyal customers of Champs for many years. The best time to visit is when Jesse, the chef, is working in the kitchen. He makes delicious soups and everything else we have tried has been excellent. The prices are fair and the portions are generous. They use fresh ingredients and offer a wide variety of options. We often ask for a takeout container because the sandwiches are large and come with generous sides. Jesse is usually working during lunchtime. However, we do not recommend eating there in the evenings as the food seems to be reheated from lunchtime and lacks freshness. We have had to send our food back several times due to lukewarm soups, stale fries, and a microwaved texture in other dishes. On wing night, the deep-fried wings are a good choice as they are cooked in large batches. Champs offers a good selection of beer, both bottled and on tap, but it is not a craft brewery so the options are standard. Mixed drinks are simple highballs, as this is a sports pub and patrons are mainly there to watch games. During major events like playoffs, the pub may be crowded and not ideal for a quiet dinner. The service is friendly, and you can pay by debit or credit at your table.