All of my friends and associates in Clayton Park rant and rave about Jungle Jim’s in the Bayer’s Lake Business Park, praising the eatery for its wide selection, reasonable prices, large portions and family-friendly environment.
And while the assessment is accurate, the problem is the food itself.
The first thing my dining partner (the lovely Ms. L) and I noticed was that the majority of patrons were overweight. Given offerings like “The Kitchen Sink,” “Big Mouth Pasta” and “Bongo Burgers” it’s easy to understand the eatery’s appeal.
Despite our respective dietary commitments, we both opted for the “big idea.”
We launched into lunch with the Triple Dipper ($9.99) – crocodile skins, onion rings and cheese queso “stuffers” sided with sour cream, salsa and chipotle mayo. Though tasty, the appetizer was far too heavy. Similarly, the “famous” buffalo wings ($10.99) left us wondering if there was room left for the main meal.
Thankfully, the restaurant offers a softer selection of fare with their “Slim Jim” menu and I enjoyed my grilled Chicken Taquitos ($11.29), a baked whole-wheat tortilla replete with seasoned chicken, mozzarella and served with low-fat sour cream and a fresh salad. Light and tender, my palate was pleased and my tummy relieved.
Ms. L opted for the Shrimp Caesar ($13.99), Cajun jumbo tiger-shrimp crested atop an array of greens and peppered with croutons, bacon bits and fresh Parmesan. The meal was both right-sized and righteous.
Unfortunately, desserts of Chimi-Cheese Cake ($5.99) – creamy cheesecake rolled inside deep fried tortillas – and Spiced Apple Burrito ($4.99) – apple-bits wrapped in a cinnamon tortilla and layered in ice cream and whipped cream – left us stuffed and sleepy.
A word to the wise: think small at Jungle Jim’s – your eyes might be larger than your stomach, but bigger isn’t always better.
Jungle Jim’s, 189 Chain Lake Drive, Bayers Lake / (902) 450-5468 / www.junglejims.ca
