Julia Ristorante

I took my husband here on an anniversary. The food was okay. I had heard a lot about this place, and I guess I really bought the "hype" and had high expectations. I was kind of let down by the whole experience, though. The food, as I said, was okay, but nothing extraordinary. I am a good cook and the dishes I chose are easy ones to replicate at home. The waiter hovered around us far too much. The benches in the booth were not deep enough and uncomfortable to sit on for the length of time it took to finish eating. There was a loud, and I mean really vocal, large family seated next to us, obviously celebrating something, too, and they really detracted from the ambiance. Shouts and hurrays overpowered everyone else's conversations, and my husband and I found ourselves falling into silence because it was just too much of an effort to compete above the din and try and converse with each other. So, again, this didn't add to the enjoyment of the evening. The bill was high, but that was expected. It is downtown Oakville, after all.

We've been going to Julia's for years, and we have never been disappointed. We always get the guacamole and the skillet shrimp. I've gotten to know the staff pretty well over the years- it's nice to see the same faces both from the service staff and in the open kitchen. They seem to change the menu pretty often, so there's always new food to try. This is a friendly, welcoming restaurant.

I have been to Julia's on numerous occasions because the atmosphere is enjoyable and the entertainment is incredible. I cannot complain about the food, it is unique and delicious. The service however, on this particular day and in reflecting back on a couple of other past visits, was disappointing to say the least. Not one smile to be seen on the faces of the staff, there was definitely a lack of enthusiasm in the air which made the all in all experience less pleasing!

Went for Sunday brunch and had the eggs bene - it...

Went for Sunday brunch and had the eggs bene - it was good but not spectacular or memorable. I have no complaints since they delivered on what I was expecting. However honestly the best thing about this restaurant is the location - I can stroll and shop before or after a satisfying meal. The menu is decent and offers a good variety. I would still recommend it.

I have eaten at Julia's about 10 times in the...

I have eaten at Julia's about 10 times in the last 3 months and ate there again today with my daughter. It is a casual but elegant atmosphere in an excellent location on lakeshore in downtown oakville. I have tried about 9 of their dishes and in every case the food was fresh, well presented, and tasty. The menu tells you the health benefits of each meal which is really cool, and the service is excellent both when its busy and when its empty. The doesnt compare to a high end restaurant in New York or Las Vegas, and the service isnt the best ive ever had but there are about 30 restaurants within a 5 minute walk of Julia's and ive eaten at half of them and keep preferring this restaurant. great wine selection too - small but good selections