Address: 444 North Summit Street, Toledo, Ohio, 43604

Phone: +1 419 243 7664

Price Range: $$$$

Website: https://brimhousetoledo.com

Brim House

Brim House, located within the Renaissance Toledo Downtown Hotel, sets the stage for an upscale dining experience with scenic river views. Overseen by Chef Aaron Lawson, the restaurant combines classic American cuisine with inventive seasonal twists. The atmosphere is inviting and warm, with both indoor and outdoor seating options to enjoy the picturesque views of the river and the bridge. While it's certainly a focal point for upscale dining in Toledo, the experience has its ups and downs.

One standout feature of Brim House is their Chef’s Table Series. This multi-course dining event is a celebration of culinary artistry. During one such event, a 7-course dinner was beautifully orchestrated with perfect cuisine and drink pairings. Despite minor hiccups like the walleye dish served cold, the staff’s immediate offer to remake the dish showed their commitment to guest satisfaction. However, such isolated incidents slightly mar the overall experience.

For breakfast and brunch aficionados, Brim House offers a compelling menu. Favorites include their Eggs Benedict, which has garnered praise for its flawless execution. The avocado toast, on the other hand, wasn’t particularly impressive with its bland and seemingly frozen avocado – considering its pricing, you're better off trying a different dish.

When it comes to the main courses, a few dishes stand apart, primarily the salted caramel pork belly and the duck fat fries. The pork belly is luxuriously rich and the fries are simply indulgent. Additionally, the banana French toast is a delightful breakfast option worth trying, providing a sweet start to your morning.

Diving into drinks, cocktails can be hit or miss. A recommendation is to skip the Old Fashioned as some have encountered poorly made versions. Opt instead for a local IPAs or wines, where the staff usually have excellent recommendations to enhance your dining experience.

Service here can be inconsistent. While some staff members like Connor exhibit great hospitality and food knowledge, others seem overwhelmed or disinterested, especially during busy periods such as holiday seasons. However, the outdoor seating area, poised with comfortable arrangements and unmatched views, makes up for many service-related shortcomings.

Making a reservation at Brim House is highly recommended, particularly for dinner or during peak times. The restaurant accommodates private dining events and has a flexible arrangement ideal for larger groups or special celebrations. Breakfast reservations might not be necessary, but it's always a safe bet during weekends.