We visited Amina with a party of 8 for a 5:30 PM reservation. There were definitely some highs and lows throughout our experience.
First, the ambiance is amazing. The restaurant is absolutely beautiful, and we loved the overall design and atmosphere. We especially enjoyed the photo booth. The pictures were $7, but it was a fun experience, and being able to email the photos to yourself was a nice touch.
Unfortunately, the service was the biggest disappointment. We arrived before our 5:30 reservation, but the doors didn't open until after our reservation time. Once inside, it took a long time to place our orders and receive our food. We understand that a party of 8 can be more difficult to manage, but there was very little communication or explanation of the menu items.
We also ordered a fe appetizers, including the peri peri wings and kankan shrimp. Both were good, but the portions were fairly small. We wish our server had recommended ordering two of each for a party of 8, but no recommendations were made. This is the type of guidance we would have appreciated from the staff.
As for the food itself, we were pleasantly surprised. Several of us ordered the braised oxtail. It was good and flavorful, although it was a little sweeter than we personally expected.
My girlfriend and a few others ordered the stand-alone rib, which was probably one of the highlights of the meal. The presentation was beautiful, and the rib had a wonderful taste and texture.
My mom ordered the picnic basket fried chicken, which she really enjoyed as well.
We also brought our own cake, and I do want to give the restaurant credit for accommodating us and helping with the cake. There was a $3 per person cake-cutting charge, which I personally found questionable, especially for a party of 8, but it is what it is.
One other detail that was disappointing was the condition of the floor around our table when we arrived. It was dirty, which stood out because the restaurant itself is so beautifully designed.
Overall, I think Amina has a lot of potential to become something really special. The space is gorgeous, the food was good overall, and there are clearly some great ideas behind the restaurant. However, the service and attention to detail need to improve. Everyone needs to be on the same page about the level of hospitality expected and what it means to create a great experience for guests.
I would possibly consider coming back because I enjoyed the food and atmosphere, the service needs to improve because the restaurant has the potential to be so much more. read more