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Upscale contemporary dining experience - Proof Kitchen and Lounge, Waterloo, ON

Proof Kitchen and Lounge

4.3
4.3
1596 Reviews
CAN$31 to CAN$50
Contemporary Canadian
Top tags:
Located in Waterloo’s historic Barrel Yards, Proof Kitchen + Lounge is Waterloo’s first choice destination for dining. We are offering an upscale, hip, and contemporary dining experience coupled with a chef-driven menu that boasts healthy, casual, interesting food, complemented by expertly crafted cocktails, a renowned wine list, and a great selection of local craft beers. The setting for all of this is a restaurant space conceptualized by an award-winning designer that will delight the senses and create a perfect backdrop to every occasion.

Valet Parking is available on Friday & Saturday evenings for $12.00.
When parking onsite, please have your License plate number with you to enter into the validation system at the host stand.

Make a reservation

2 people
7:00 p.m.
Booked 34 times today

Order delivery or takeout

Private dining

Private dining

Book your next event with us

View details

Additional information

  • Dining style
    Casual Dining
  • Price
    CAN$31 to CAN$50
  • Cuisines
    Contemporary Canadian, Global, International, Canadian
  • Hours of Operation
    Mon–Fri 11:30 am–11:00 pm Sat 11:00 am–11:00 pm Sun 11:00 am–10:00 pm
  • Phone number
    (519) 208-3333
  • Website
    http://proofwaterloo.com/
  • Payment Options
    AMEX, Diners Club, Mastercard, Visa
  • Dress Code
    Casual Dress
  • Executive Chef
    Ryan Reid
  • Catering
    Please visit our Catering page on our website or call us to find out more about our catering services.
  • Private party facilities
    Proof offers a variety of private and semi-private event spaces in Uptown Waterloo. From corporate meetings to weddings, our team of Event Coordinators will work with you to bring your vision to life. Please visit our website to see our Holiday hours.
  • Private party contact
    Amber Maxwell: (519) 208-3333
  • Location
    110 Erb Street West, The Barrel Yards, Waterloo, ON N2L 6C2
  • Neighbourhood
    Waterloo
  • Cross Street
    At the corner of Erb W and Father David Baur Drive
  • Parking Details
    All guests of Proof receive complimentary parking.
  • Entertainment
    Jazz Brunches every Sunday from 11- 2 pm! Squad Night every Thursday night with live music!
  • Additional
    Beer, Cocktails, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Takeout, Vegan, Wheelchair Access, Wine

What 1,596 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.3
4.3 based on recent ratings
  • 4.4Food
  • 4.3Service
  • 4.3Ambience
  • 4.2Value

Noise • Moderate

1,596 Reviews

  1. MichaelD

    Toronto

    10 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    10 reviews

    Dined 3 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Excellent service from waiter we recognized from a previous occasion and who remembered us as repeat guests

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  2. OpenTable Diner

    Toronto

    4 reviews

    3.0

    4 reviews

    Dined 4 days ago

    overall3food5service5ambience4
    A hiccup at the end with the 30% off discount for Barrel Yards. All smoothed over but it was a bit chaotic.

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  3. energurl

    Toronto

    2 reviews

    3.0

    2 reviews

    Dined 6 days ago

    overall3food5service2ambience2
    Had to wipe food off of my chair. There was food on the floor. It took way too long for a server to come to the table. She was very fake, used the “Royal We” constantly. My coffee was brought promptly but my friend’s latte took way too long. Food took a long time to arrive. It was very good. When we were done it took a very long time for her to come with the bill. This experience surprised me because the reputation is much better than that. And previous experience has been great. Not sure what happened but the food on the chair and floor was really off-putting and the inauthenticity of the server was even more so. Food was great!🤷🏼‍♀️

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  4. Kayla

    Toronto

    2 reviews

    2.0

    2 reviews

    Dined 6 days ago

    overall2food1service3ambience4
    Was there for brunch and ordered the steak and eggs, medium rare cook. My steak was horribly overdone, not a hint of pink. It was visibly burnt and the burnt flavour overpowered everything. The Hollandaise sauce served with it was so sweet and didn’t seem to fit at all. Very disappointed with this meal, especially for the price and up-scale feel.

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  5. Lars

    Toronto

    12 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    12 reviews

    Dined 7 days ago

    overall4food5service4ambience3
    Great food, service was ok. I feel that the Proof Kitchen has lost its intimacy and lustre. The noise level has become excessive and the lighting way too bright. Perhaps the restaurant is catering to a different crowd or demographic. Not sure. I prefer the pre-Covid atmosphere. Recommendation to a friend to patronize the restaurant would depend on the occasion.

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  6. TanyaF

    Toronto

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on November 24, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Our server(s) were fantastic!! One came over to check on us after being seated for some time as our original server was busy with a large party. Took our food order for the main server, who introduced herself once she was able to. Great teamwork and customer service!!

    Proof Kitchen and LoungeResponded 7 days ago

    Thank you so much for your 5-star review! Our team works hard to make sure our guests have an amazing experience at Proof Kitchen + Lounge. We will share this with the team to let them know to keep up the amazing work. Fletcher GM

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  7. Rose

    Toronto

    13 reviews

    2.0

    13 reviews

    Dined on November 19, 2023

    overall2food2service3ambience4
    Attended Expecting a Lovely Brunch .Had Bacon Benny, which is Poached Eggs,Bacon.Breakfast was delivered, eggs cold, side bacon not back bacon that is usually a staple in My Opinion, way too many Potatoes to fill the plate I guess, the smallest Biscuit under the small eggs ,Server did offer to replace them when she came around to check,was not waiting longer.Ireally expected Better Service from this Restaurant.

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  8. HeatherS

    Chicago

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 18, 2023

    overall4food5service3ambience4
    Proof is consistently good, it's one of our favourite spots. The food is always delicious and the ambience is great.

    Proof Kitchen and LoungeResponded 7 days ago

    Heather, we're thrilled to hear that you had a positive experience. Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we're committed to continuous improvement. What can we do to give you a perfect experience during your next visit? Please feel free to share any suggestions or feedback you may have. Thank you for choosing us! Fletcher GM

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  9. OpenTable Diner

    Toronto

    5 reviews

    2.0

    5 reviews

    Dined on November 17, 2023

    overall2food2service3ambience4
    Food was cold. Had a discount card for Barrel Yards - had to ask twice for server to use it and in the end the full discount was NOT applied.

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  10. HuckleBee

    Toronto

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 17, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    They regular change the menu so it always seems updated and fresh

    Proof Kitchen and LoungeResponded on November 19, 2023

    HuckleBee, thank you very much for your wonderful review! We appreciate the opportunity to serve you and hope to do so again soon. Have a great day!

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  11. TimT

    Toronto

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 16, 2023

    overall4food4service5ambience4
    Restaurant is close by the Barrel Yards complex and is very accessible. Decor is pleasing and the noise level on our visits have been good. Food choice is well positioned for the discernable diner and very well presented. Service was very good as usual and we consider the Proof to be on our "go to" list for a most enjoyable meal out.

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  12. CraigP

    Exclusive

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on November 15, 2023

    overall5food5service4ambience4
    Food was outstanding and server surprised with a Birthday dessert which was GF for my wife.

    Proof Kitchen and LoungeResponded on November 19, 2023

    Thank you so much for your 5-star review! Our team works hard to make sure our guests have an amazing experience at Proof Kitchen + Lounge. We will share this with the team to let them know to keep up the amazing work. We hope you had an amazing Birthday. Fletcher GM

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  13. SusanC

    Toronto

    10 reviews

    5.0

    10 reviews

    Dined on November 11, 2023

    overall5food4service5ambience5
    Good menu selection, excellent service. We had lamb shank, steak, miso cod and Korean sandwich. Sandwich was overly messy but good flavour. Everything else excellent.

    Proof Kitchen and LoungeResponded on November 14, 2023

    Susan thank you very much for your wonderful review! We appreciate the opportunity to serve you and hope to do so again soon. Have a great day. Fletcher GM

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  14. Gerry

    Toronto

    11 reviews

    5.0

    11 reviews

    Dined on November 8, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Excellent food, exceptional service. Great ambiance!

    Proof Kitchen and LoungeResponded on November 11, 2023

    Hello Gerry, thanks for taking the time to review us. We’re dedicated to providing our guests with the best possible dining experience and are glad that this was reflected in your visit. We look forward to serving you again. Thank you! Fletcher GM Proof Kitchen and Lounge

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  15. FranH

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 7, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The service was great! Everyone was super nice and got us everything we need. They were very accommodating of a food allergy and did a great job of keeping things seperate. We were celebrating a birthday and they were super nice and great.

    Proof Kitchen and LoungeResponded on November 11, 2023

    Thank you so much for your 5-star review! Our team works hard to make sure our guests have an amazing experience at Proof Kitchen + Lounge. We will share this with the team to let them know to keep up the amazing work. Fletcher GM Proof Kitchen and Lounge

    Is this helpful?

  16. MitchellA

    Exclusive

    2 reviews

    4.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on November 7, 2023

    overall4food4service3ambience5
    Great food, service was a touch slow at the start / end but, they were dealing with a few large parties so nothing glaring. Food was great, we had the baked Brie and ceaser to start. Lamb shank for me and French onion Mac and cheese for the Mrs. lamb was delicious. Only downside was the French onion Mac, very decadent and more onions than pasta. Will come again to taste more!

    Proof Kitchen and LoungeResponded on November 8, 2023

    Thank you for your valuable feedback, Mitchell! We strive to offer that 5-star experience, your suggestions will enable us to refine our offerings and deliver an exceptional dining experience that surpasses your expectations on your next visit. Fletcher GM

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  17. JennyC

    Montreal

    13 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    13 reviews

    Dined on November 6, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We had a great dinner at Proof again. The server Mati was very friendly and helpful. The manager checked in on us which we appreciated. We started with the baked Brie and really enjoyed it. I had the grilled salmon and it was delicious!

    Proof Kitchen and LoungeResponded on November 8, 2023

    Thank You Jenny, We’re thrilled you had such a great time at Proof Kitchen + Lounge. We hope to have you back soon. Fletcher GM Proof Kitchen and Lounge

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  18. SandyF

    Toronto

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 5, 2023

    overall4food4service3ambience4
    Very good Happy hour choices. Food & drink arrived quickly. Service impersonal. Food enjoyable.

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  19. KKunono

    Toronto

    7 reviews

    5.0

    7 reviews

    Dined on November 5, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We were a group of 10 and we served promptly and efficiently. The food was yummy and the mimosa set delicious!

    Proof Kitchen and LoungeResponded on November 8, 2023

    Thank you so much for your 5-star review! Our team works hard to make sure our guests have an amazing experience at Proof Kitchen + Lounge. We will share this with the team to let them know to keep up the amazing work.

    Is this helpful?

  20. Jess

    1 review

    2.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 1, 2023

    overall2food3service2ambience4
    We arrived around 730pm and didn’t leave until 950pm, due to our food taking a very long time and our bill taking a long time to be prepared. We frequent this restaurant for the food, vibe and excellent staff, unfortunately we did not experience that this time around and it was very disappointing as we were celebrating a birthday.

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  21. LisaW

    1 review

    3.0

    1 review

    Dined on October 25, 2023

    overall3food4service2ambience4
    Our entrees were delicious and well proportioned. The baked brie was very disappointing in taste and presentation. It had hardened up a bit, my guess would be as it was left under the lamp or not delivered in a timely fashion. It also had very limited toppings and hardly any crostini to eat it with and we advised four of us would be sharing it for a taste and only three very tiny crisps came with it. We only ate half and that was mostly with a utensil. We would have asked for more but our server was nowhere to be seen for most of the night. That was probably the biggest downside of the evening, although he was a friendly server, he was not that informed of menu or wine information or attentive. Other staff delivered our plates, which is not unusual, however there was no check-in or offer of pepper or or drink refills. We finally flagged somebody down for the pepper mill but my colleague was halfway done her meal. He did refill our water glasses when he came to ask if it was time for the bill. Again other than the Brie, the food was very tasty. I’ve always enjoyed everything about Proof Kitchen and I chose the venue for the evening, so of course felt responsible for the choice. I hope this was just a one off evening.

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  22. JaneB

    Toronto

    4 reviews

    4.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on October 21, 2023

    overall4food5service3ambience4
    Fabulous food!--Service a little on the slower side but I think it was due to the "business" of the restaurant. The server however, was very nice. We ended up parking underground but then when we entered the restaurant, we had to provide them with the license plate #. I don't always remember my plate #--so it may be something that you mention on your web site--for us older folks! Overall, a lovely dining experience.

    Proof Kitchen and LoungeResponded on October 23, 2023

    Thank you so much for the detailed review it is really appreciated. We are excited about your next visit. Fletcher Falls GM Proof Kitchen and Lounge

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  23. FrankK

    Toronto

    7 reviews

    5.0

    7 reviews

    Dined on October 21, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Exceptional service and food, went beyond our expectations. Did not rush us out after two hours, which was nice since my daughter lives in Ottawa and we don't see her that often.

    Proof Kitchen and LoungeResponded on October 23, 2023

    Thank you for the Amazing review. We look forward to your next visit. Fletcher GM Proof Kitchen and Lounge

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  24. LindaB

    San Francisco

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on October 19, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Our waiter was very knowledgeable and helpful… we started in the lounge with drinks & appetizers… all very creative & delicious… moved to a very cozy booth, food and drinks were again very creative & delicious… the staff were all incredibly friendly and positive. We are returning tonight!!!

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  25. JennyC

    Montreal

    13 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    13 reviews

    Dined on October 16, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Really nice dinner. Tried the new vesper martini…so delicious. Loved their twist with absinthe. I highly recommend the mushroom soup.

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  26. Paul

    Toronto

    3 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on October 10, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Wonderful experience, dinner with friends, great service, food and atmosphere

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  27. ShehenazM

    Toronto

    1 review

    2.0

    1 review

    Dined on October 9, 2023

    overall2food1service1ambience2
    The waitress was rude and the steak was burnt. The ambience was not bad so it's a pity the service was so horrid. She literally raised her voice at us.

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  28. GailM

    Exclusive

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on October 9, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    A few family members and myself decided to eat Thanksgiving dinner out. After calling around see which restaurants offered a special Thanksgiving dinner, we decided to go to Proof and were impressed. The dinner was outstanding and the portion size was great. This may become tradition.

    Proof Kitchen and LoungeResponded on October 17, 2023

    Hi Gail, Thank you for taking the time to provide us with this great review. We would love to see your family every year for Thanksgiving and all of the holidays. Kind regards, Jenny Director

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  29. OpenTable Diner

    Toronto

    4 reviews

    vip
    1.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on October 8, 2023

    overall1food2service1ambience4
    Appetizers were good. However main dishes were terrible and servers were completely lost, no attention to details, closed the kitchen without even warning us so we could make last order. Also messed up with our bills. Very poor experience

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  30. lioness

    Toronto

    9 reviews

    4.0

    9 reviews

    Dined on October 8, 2023

    overall4food4service5ambience4
    My husband and I went for the turkey dinner. It was a set meal but we wished it had included an appetizer. The portions were fine for me but my husband found the portions a bit too small.

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  31. KevinG

    Toronto

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on October 8, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Great place, been there many times - food and service always top notch!

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  32. VanessaS

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on October 8, 2023

    overall4food5service4ambience5
    I would recommend this restaurant. Presentation is excellent; nearly all of our dishes were excellent as well (we received some avocado in the poke bowl that was quite out of season). Service was very good although one guest kept getting served a different guest's order. It also took a while for our empty plates to be cleared.

    Proof Kitchen and LoungeResponded on October 17, 2023

    Hi Vanessa, Thank you so much for your feedback. We are glad to hear you will recommend us and we hope we see you again soon. We launch a new menu tomorrow and there are dishes that will better match the fall season. Kind regards, Jenny Director

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  33. valeryg

    Montreal

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on October 7, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Food was amazing, server friendly and helpful , we were a group and had a private room, it was really nice.

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  34. OpenTable Diner

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on October 7, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Staff was wonderful and 2 hostesses extremely great. Sienna being one was lovely and very helpful.

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  35. Seniorwaterloo

    Toronto

    2 reviews

    3.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on October 6, 2023

    overall3food3service4ambience3
    Grilled Calamari in Salsa sauce bland. Onion Bhajis excellent. Mains all good including Turkey dinner. Wine list way overpriced for frequent eaters. Service friendly but a bit haphazard.

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  36. Tanya

    Toronto

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on October 2, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The main I ordered at Proof was absolutely amazing. Flavourful yet clean tasting. But the dessert was really underwhelming. It was incredibly heavy and made me wonder if they purchase desserts from another source? It just was so disappointing in comparison to the main which was truly flawless.

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  37. OpenTable Diner

    Toronto

    1 review

    3.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 30, 2023

    overall3food3service3ambience1
    Food was pretty good. No complaints. Chairs were terrible. A law suit waiting to happen I’m sure. They looked crummy and were breaking apart. Needs an overhaul. Looks run down.

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  38. ph13

    Toronto

    2 reviews

    4.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on September 28, 2023

    overall4food4service5ambience4
    The experience here was amazing! Started with the the strawberry and lemon mocktails, very good Ordered the lamb shank and crispy chicken, both were very good. For the price of the lamb shank, the portion was big. The chicken was a little dry but had very good flavour. Also go the candied salmon. Usually smoke salmon is too salty for my taste but had a good hint of sweetness made for a great appetizer. Finally, dessert was great with the turtle torte also getting a free small cake because it was my girlfriends birthday. The service was amazing. Servers were very nice and came to check in regularly on how the food was going. Ambiance was great, not too loud and made it feel very fancy. Did not know waterloo had these types of nice restaurants. Good for a nice place out, especially for students!! Just be mindful of how much you spend lol

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  39. Colette

    Toronto

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on September 28, 2023

    overall5food5service2ambience5
    The service was outstanding as well as the food. It was a bit noisy, but there was a function going on, so no biggie. We can’t wait to go back.

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  40. Ronaldo

    Los Angeles

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on September 26, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    A beautiful setting with an exceptional and unique menu, both for drinks and for food.

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Safety precautions

  • Cleaning & sanitising

    • Surfaces sanitised between seatings
    • Digital, disposable or sanitised menu provided
    • Common areas deep-cleaned daily

  • Physical distancing

    • Distancing maintained in common areas

  • Screening

    • Sick staff prohibited in the workplace

FAQs

You can order delivery directly from Proof Kitchen and Lounge using the Order Online button. Proof Kitchen and Lounge also offers takeout which you can order by calling the restaurant at (519) 208-3333.

Proof Kitchen and Lounge is rated 4.3 stars by 1596 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a reservation

2 people
7:00 p.m.
Booked 34 times today

Order delivery or takeout

Google Map for Proof Kitchen and Lounge

110 Erb Street West, The Barrel Yards, Waterloo, ON N2L 6C2

Additional information

  • Cross Street
    At the corner of Erb W and Father David Baur Drive
  • Neighbourhood
    Waterloo
  • Hours of Operation
    Mon–Fri 11:30 am–11:00 pm Sat 11:00 am–11:00 pm Sun 11:00 am–10:00 pm
  • Price
    CAN$31 to CAN$50
  • Cuisines
    Contemporary Canadian, Global, International, Canadian
  • Dining style
    Casual Dining
  • Dress Code
    Casual Dress
  • Parking Details
    All guests of Proof receive complimentary parking.
  • Payment Options
    AMEX, Diners Club, Mastercard, Visa
  • Executive Chef
    Ryan Reid
  • Entertainment
    Jazz Brunches every Sunday from 11- 2 pm! Squad Night every Thursday night with live music!
  • Additional
    Beer, Cocktails, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Takeout, Vegan, Wheelchair Access, Wine
  • Website
    http://proofwaterloo.com/
  • Phone number
    (519) 208-3333
  • Catering
    Please visit our Catering page on our website or call us to find out more about our catering services.
  • Private party facilities
    Proof offers a variety of private and semi-private event spaces in Uptown Waterloo. From corporate meetings to weddings, our team of Event Coordinators will work with you to bring your vision to life. Please visit our website to see our Holiday hours.
  • Private party contact
    Amber Maxwell: (519) 208-3333
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