The Loft - Branch

Excellent service, delicious fish and chips. Hubby had his fish pan fried, was done perfect. Great view from the outdoor patio, weather permitting. Enter through the store on the ground level.

Wow! I am a self- professed finish snob, having grown up in an outport where fish was practically wriggling when you bought it. So, I have high standards for my fish. At The Loft in Branch, I was not disappointed! The fish was so fresh! And perfectly cooked! The cook gladly pan fried my cod in corn starch to accommodate my food sensitivities. The accompanying sweet potato fries were hands-down the best I have ever had. The portions were generous- my husband had to help me finish the meal. Thank you so much to the staff at the Loft- Covid measures are in place, the server was attentive, efficient and just plain nice. We ate outside on the deck, with a view of the harbour and the ocean. All this made for an excellent experience. So grateful.

One of the guides from Cape St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve recommended we stop for lunch in Branch (pop. 427) at Careen’s Gas Bar Convenience Store. We were somewhat sceptical that such a place existed as we walked through the store, but there at the back was a staircase, as upstairs is “The Loft” restaurant. Lots of windows, friendly staff, frequented by others (including several take out orders), a great outdoor deck, with simple but delicious food. Now we know where Branch is!

We found this restaurant after visiting Cape St. Mary's Ecological Reserve. It is above the general store. Absolutely delicious pan fried cod in Bud's fish wrap. It is offered deep fried but the chef willing pan fried for us. Highly recommend this place.

We had driven to St. Marys Ecological Reserve at the tip of The Avalon peninsula. After we left we were getting pretty hungry and knew we had a long drive back to St. John's. Out of nowhere we see a RESTAURANT sign...no idea what it was or what it served. To our surprise we were served a lovely good quality fast lunch that we thoroughly enjoyed. My husband had a great club house sandwich, and I had a good quality fresh made burger with fried onions etc. and excellent fries. The menu was large and the prices were fair. I wanted to try more from the menu but we were just passing through for lunch.