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The start of a new year always calls for something special. This year, we chose to celebrate at the Watermark Restaurant at Hilton Niagara Falls, a venue boasting one of the most incredible views in Canada. However, our evening turned out to be a blend of highs, lows, and a few unexpected surprises.
First Impressions: Service and Setting
The evening began on a positive note. Every staff member, from the hotel front desk to the restaurant team, was exceptional. Their warm hospitality was one of the highlights of the night. Unfortunately, the setting didn’t quite match their level of professionalism.
The Watermark’s unique selling point is its view of Niagara Falls, yet the ambiance didn’t fully support this. Bright interior lights caused reflections on the windows, obscuring the breathtaking scenery. It felt ironic that a restaurant famous for its views would render them nearly invisible. Even with some photography tricks, capturing the beauty outside was impossible.
The Menu: A Mix of Hits and Misses
The $149 prix fixe three-course menu kicked off with warm, delicious bread—a promising start. However, things quickly hit a snag. My initial choice of appetizer was unavailable, and the replacement shrimp cocktail lacked creativity and flair. The shrimp seemed oddly familiar, more reminiscent of a supermarket special than a fine dining experience.
The main course was better but not extraordinary. We opted for steak, which was decent but fell short of delivering the wow factor expected on such a significant night.
Desserts, however, came to the rescue. My husband’s chocolate mousse and my crème brûlée were delightful, ending the meal on a sweet note.
Midnight: The Countdown That Wasn’t
As the clock struck midnight, anticipation hung in the air. But the countdown never happened, there was no celebratory build-up, and, most surprisingly, no fireworks. We were told that humidity was to blame for the obstructed view, but Niagara Falls is rarely anything but misty. Coupled with the glaring lights and loud background music, the experience fell flat.
Final Thoughts: Was It Worth It?
The total bill, including a 20% tip, came to $467.95. For a special occasion, paying a "view tax" is often justified by an exceptional experience. Think Eiffel Tower views in Paris or Mediterranean sunsets on the Amalfi Coast. However, the lack of a clear view and the underwhelming ambiance made this tax feel far steeper than its worth.
Would we return? It’s hard to say. For now, this New Year’s Eve dinner leaves me pondering whether the promise of an incredible view can truly compensate for missed opportunities to elevate the experience.
By the way, this video is part of my Niagara Falls trip vlog. Watch my full journey on my YouTube channel! 🎥✨
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