Situated in the village of Mount Pleasant, southwest of Brantford, is Devlin’s Country Bistro – an integral part of the area since its opening. The quaint setting of this authentic dining establishment is nestled in a former 18th-century home. But, don’t let this fool you… Featuring low lighting and soft jazz accompaniment, the atmosphere takes a backseat to its sumptuous 5-star menu.
With its exceptional service, regardless of the occasion, you can be sure a meal at Devlin’s is one you won’t soon forget. Featuring incomparable favourites such as their house-made Caesar Salad, teeming with garlic, and fresh lemon, and served with Reggiano cheese, as well as an amazing Bruleéd Buffalo Bliss Brie offering, it’s just the beginning of a uniquely curated dining experience in this Brant County establishment.
Devlin’s, for my family and friends, has been the restaurant of choice for celebration. Birthdays and promotions have been toasted over a glass of robust wine and inspired appetizers, entrees including wood grilled steak selections, savoury seafood, and rich pasta dishes, and a dessert selection that’s divine! In addition, many of their ingredients are locally sourced and featured in their menu selections, from cheeses to meats, fresh vegetables and choice of breads, Devlin’s not only uses fresh local ingredients where possible, but they also donate back to local charities – giving back to the community the best ways they know how.
Over the years, this restaurant has become a venue of choice for business and special occasions, milestones and recognizing life achievements, but it’s also a wonderful setting in which to experience decadent dishes for the pure love of great food and life, shared with family or friends. More frequently, and on a casual basis, they have also provided their delicious food fare in take-out orders, advertised in advance on their social media platforms and pre-booked for advanced sales. Seriously, if you haven’t tried their 14 oz. rib eye, are you even living?!
With the farm-to-fork movement, and the integral support that Devlin’s gives to local producers, it begs the question as to whether it’s overlooked as more of a fine-dining entity, as opposed to the wonderful setting in which standard drool-worthy dining in less fancier terms can be had. As an example, although some connoisseurs of fine food may turn up their noses at poutine dishes or macaroni and cheese, I happen to adore them (yes, adore.) Especially when it’s listed as a “5-cheese” creation, or the word “gourmet” sits in front of it. With adjectives like these, you can bet a noteworthy, authentic experience is being generated under the guise of a comfort food staple. And, I’m here for it!
The menu at Devlin’s has such a broad range that starts with a Charity Bread Basket and ends with selections such as Smoked Iberico Pork Chop or a Quinoa Power Squash Bowl. There’s something for everyone – including me, a steak aficionado indefinitely. I’ve never met a filet mignon, striploin, or top sirloin I didn’t love. Add sauteed mushrooms and you’ll have me hooked for life. Which is exactly why I chose to write this appreciation article.
If you’re searching for a place you haven’t yet been able to put your finger on as a fantastic combination of upscale and comfort dining classics, you’ll find that balance at Devlin’s. In fact, I highly recommend several visits, in order to get the full experience of all they have to offer. Indulging in their chef-prepared and specially curated creations is a form of self-care, trust me. In addition to taking that leap and savouring a mouthwatering meal, you’ll also be supporting a local business that spreads that support as far as it can and has been a cornerstone in the Mount Pleasant community for years as a result. Visit their website for more information, hours of operation, and menu selections. Follow them on Instagram and Facebook as well, to stay current on their flawless cuisine, special events, huge heart, and love for community.
Uncommonly Grand 