Ancora Waterfront Dining and Patio - Ambleside

I've never been a fan of Ancora, and my latest visit only solidified my disdain. The location is great, but that's the only redeeming quality. We decided to give it another shot the other night because Earl's was packed, leading us to Ancora.

What greeted us was not just a disappointing meal but a bizarre experience. We walked into what was essentially a ghost town at 7:50 PM on a Saturday night; only three tables were occupied. You'd think this would translate to quick service and a warm welcome, but no. Instead, we were met with chaos among the staff. When we asked for a table for two, you'd think we asked for the moon. There was a ruckus, and then someone had the audacity to inform us that the kitchen couldn't handle any more diners.

Let's break this down:
1. **Staffing and Competency Issues**: If your kitchen can't manage to cook for a handful of patrons, there's a severe problem with staffing or kitchen management.

2. **Operational Mismanagement**: It was 7 PM on a Saturday, and your restaurant was nearly empty. This isn't just bad for business; it's indicative of deeper operational issues. How does a kitchen in a half-empty restaurant claim incapacity?

This experience at Ancora was not just a culinary disappointment but a testament to poor management and service. If you're looking for a place where you're not just another number but an inconvenience, Ancora is the spot. However, for any semblance of dining pleasure or efficiency, look elsewhere.

Won’t be shocked when their doors don’t reopen.

Atmosphere: 1

Food: 1

Service: 1

The Ambleside unit of the Ancora Waterfront restaurant is gorgeous! We had an awesome experience overall. Phenomenal service from start to finish and great selection of sushi and appetizers. The lobster roll was out of this world, just a bomb of different flavours; my favourite was the ceviche mixto though. The dining room has a wonderful decoration and the view to the Ambleside Beach is glorious.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Amazing food, nice staff and right by the water! 👌🏽

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Vegetarian options: The food was great, they had options for vegetarians. Servants were so kind and helpful.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Seafood

While the ambiance is exceptional, the food and drink fall slightly short of expectations. The menu is creative, but the flavors can feel underwhelming and not as bold as anticipated. Similarly, the cocktails and wine list are decent but nothing particularly memorable. Overall, Ancora is more about the atmosphere than the culinary experience. If you’re looking for a beautiful setting, it delivers, but the food may leave you wanting more.

TOTAAALL SHAKEDOWN!! buyer beware: I went there to grab a beer and they have a policy that you have to buy food. so I was forded to buy food lol. they didnt tell me the policy until after they gave me my drink. a few minutes later a waiter came up and told me I must order more. i’ve made it a point to tell everyone i know not to go there. We get ripped off on prices at these places as it is. and now entrapment lol.

It is hard to rate this restaurant, on one hand its beautiful, great location by the sea, great service and great music, on the other hand very mid food, taste wise just not matching the price and freshness is a hit or miss, loved the yucas bravas though. Also shoutout to our waitress who i forgot ur name, u were amazing. Btw the restaurant had no customers at all, and in two hours we were there only one other table was occupied ( weekday 7ish pm)

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 3

Service: 5

Hey! I've been told that I posted my review for the wrong location... Apologies! Here's my review for the right location this time... :-)
Had dinner at the West Van location on Thursday night 2024) (Sept 18, 2024) and it was a truly outstanding experience! We had a series of starters, all fresh and each one tasted better than the one before! The beet salad was beyond outstanding though, I must say! For our mains, I had the roasted cauliflower and my husband had the duck. Again, they were wonderful. A beautiful mix of Peruvian and Japanese flavours. The service was swift and attentive without being over bearing. Our server knew the menu inside and out, giving us great advice. Although we live in Ottawa, we’ll be back when next in West Vancouver!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Ceviche Mixto, Bluefin Tuna Tataki

Great Lobster Risotto 🦞 😋

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

We have been to Ancora couple of times before. Not sure what has changed recently but the quality of service and food has dropped drastically. Service was sub par. Food arrived 40 mins after appetizer. Server’s excuse was they make everything from scratch. Ordered shrimp risotto, it was so bland.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 2

Service: 1

I would give 5 to 5

Super good experience after of the baptism of my little boy.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Lobster and Shrimp Risotto, Seafood

Great place! Great team! One of our long time favorites.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

I absolutely love Ancora Ambleside. The atmosphere is welcoming, and the staff goes above and beyond to make every visit special. The food is consistently exceptional, with each dish bursting with flavor and beautifully presented. The desserts are equally delightful, making it impossible to resist a sweet ending to the meal. I highly recommend Ancora Ambleside for anyone looking for a truly memorable dining experience.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Lobster and Shrimp Risotto

Went for anniversary dinner with my wife. Everything was excellent. The sablefish melts in your mouth. I found my new favourite cocktail in the Guava Inferno - just a bit of heat from the ghost pepper tequila - very enjoyable. Also, maybe the best gelato I've had. I recommend.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 5

Service: 4