Morty’s Pub sets a tasty tone for summer
Waterloo pub satisfies craving for wings — and pickle spears, too
The warm weather is here, and overnight our lawn turned into a sea of yellow dandelions. Weeding is a lonely pursuit but back in the day I did have young assistants, whether willing or not. The middle child once said we were fighting Sir Weedy and his evil henchmen.
My husband noted that this year I am showing extra aggression in my assault on Sir Weedy. His point is valid, but I would describe my methods as therapeutic. It’s a healthy outlet for stress. For your safety, however, do not approach during one of my sessions.
One works up quite a thirst and appetite after all that hard work, especially on a Friday night. Some of us were craving chicken wings and we knew just the right spot.
Morty’s Pub in Waterloo is conveniently located near our two universities but its popularity extends well beyond the student population. For nearly 40 years the casual eatery has been a local favourite for its house specialty wings, frosty beverages, and friendly, welcoming atmosphere. They’ve cleverly embraced the new rules regarding alcohol and include beer and wings specials, along with a whole array of tempting takeout options, from their menu.
Unlike prior Friday night escapades, which involved debate and discussion over what to order, the four of us made our choices lickety split. Morty’s online ordering system is very straightforward and sets out payment and pickup methods designed to be contact-free. If alcohol is part of the order, proof of age must be provided at the time of pickup. Alcohol can’t be included if you opt to have your order delivered.
Friday nights at Morty’s are especially festive, as my husband and eldest son discovered when they arrived in the parking lot to pick up our food. Their server was decked out in a grass skirt and flowery lei in honour of the occasion. There’s a different theme every week, so prepare to be surprised.
Everything in our order was neatly packaged and labelled for ease of distribution. The starters we ordered to share were apparently irresistible. By the time I had finished taking the photos to go with this review, the others had graciously left me one of the Pickle Spears ($11.99) to try, which left me wanting more. Fried pickles are pretty straightforward but when they’re done right they’re really tasty. These were crisp spears of dill pickle coated in just the right amount of breading and paired with a garlicky sauce.
I fared better with the Spinach Dip ($13.49) and toasted pita triChicken angles for dipping. There was plenty of the creamy spinach, artichoke, Asiago and feta cheese mixture for all to enjoy. It is meant to be served hot, so it can be popped in the microwave if needed.
My son and husband each ordered medium-sized Famous Wings ($24.99, includes one or two sauces). Both opted for the smoked unbreaded style, but one went with Cajun sauce and the other with Hot. The wings were very enjoyable and the level of heat was to their taste. We also shared a tasty Basket O’Fries ($6.99), which contained more than enough for everyone.
My daughter chose the Chicken Chunks ($13.49) in Honey Garlic. It was a generous portion and there was enough left over to share for lunch the next day.
I also had leftovers from my Morty’s Steak Sandwich ($15.99) but I carefully hid them in the fridge. That sandwich was delicious with layers of flank steak, mozzarella cheese, sautéed onion, mushrooms and green pepper. Some beef sandwiches cry out for a gravy or dip but this one stood up on its own.
Morty’s has everything you need to celebrate the start of summer from the comfort and safety of your own patio.
Dining In reviews focus on Waterloo Region’s delivery, pickup, and takeaway dishes and are based on unannounced orders from the establishments. Restaurants do not pay for any portion of the reviewer’s meal. Sandra Walneck can be reached at swalneck22@gmail.com and on Twiter @swalneck