Has everyone been to Earl’s already? It seems that it is a popular place to eat in the downtown area. We enjoy Earl’s, but don’t go as often as it is not entirely kid friendly. When they removed all their high chairs, I think they were sending a message. This may be really good news for some of you.

There are a few staples that I think Earl’s does very well. The wings, Kung Pao and sticky toffee pudding are always respectable when I go. My wife thought her salmon was as good as a chain restaurant could provide.

The atmosphere might be one of the best in Saskatoon. A few years back, they really changed the style including a new lounge and bar area. There is more than enough room on most nights.

Since it is a chain, the price is reasonable while the service remains decent. I would recommend trying Earl’s if you have never been before. If you haven’t been in a while, nothing much changes as it is quite consistent with service and value.

For taste, I give it a 3.5 as it slightly better than average.

Atmosphere, better than most at a 4.

Price is average with most chains, 3

Service, again average with most other chain restaurants, 3.5.

TAPS -14

610 2nd Avenue North, Saskatoon

www.earls.ca

Chili’s should have been opened a year ago, but alas, it is finally here and open. Chili’s is a staple chain restaurant throughout the United States. I have been to many Chili’s from central Illinois to Honolulu and most of them are exactly the same. The salty chips and the American brewed iced tea hit the spot. You have to ask for the American brewed iced tea and they don’t realize that they even have it right now, but they do have it.

The taste is the same here in Saskatoon as it is in the Midwestern states and in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. You will get your monthly intake of sodium and more than you should eat in grease. It tastes good going down, but you will realize why so many Americans are overweight.

The atmosphere is right on par with all the other chains. The service surprised me since they just opened. You will have to wait a bit to get in, but the servers try really hard and do a great job. They don’t take reservations, but they do allow you to call in to put your name on the list.

You won’t go broke eating at Chili’s. There is no difference between the price there and at most other chains in town. The chicken crispers are worth trying, but your heart won’t be happy with you for the abuse.

TAPS -13

Taste – 3

Atmosphere – 3

Price – 3

Service – 4