If I had to use one word to describe last night's experience at Club Grill, it would be "magical."…read more
I had planned a special birthday dinner to celebrate my dear friend Tina's birthday (& our 12+ years of friendship) and had put in a memo beforehand for the restaurant to do something special for her, and boy did they deliver !
When we arrived, we were greeted with FABULOUS music (their pianist is magnificent) and escorted to a special table for us. It was more than either of us could have expected: rose petals, fabulous place settings, and when we received the menus, we opened them to see, on the left side, Tina's special menu slip/greeting that read: "Happy Birthday, Dr. Tina" (nice touch).
The meal itself was delectable! We were presented with a delicious lobster amuse bouche and we ordered a beef tartare to share. I have been eating less red meat lately, however if you're going to eat red meat, eat it here. The quality of the beef tartare was amazing and beautifully presented (as every other dish we ordered).
For the second course, I ordered the corn soup. Best corn soup hands down! The flavor was out of this world. For our entrees, I had the duck (staple of the restaurant for 20 years) and Tina ordered the sea bass. My duck was soooo good and I tasted her sea bass which was very flavorful.
For dessert, we had ordered (at beginning of meal) a chocolate soufflé which came out hot and delicious (and tasty but not too sweet, which I also appreciate). Then after our soufflé, they delivered a special additional chocolate cake with candle and 'Happy Birthday Dr. Tina' writing on plate, while they sang to us/Tina. It was very cute and sweet.
I can honestly say, this experience was a dream: from the synchronized delivery of food/presenting of dishes from the wait staff (literally felt like I was in a 007 ritzy scene with the service), thoughtful touches, delectable cuisine, exceptional jazz music, warmth of staff and great service. I would give this restaurant 10 stars if I could.
Classy place and extremely well run. Hats off to the manager and chef (they both came up at beginning and end of meal to speak with us and thank us for coming which was very nice) and our amazing server Oscar (he was so kind and truly the best!! 10s across the board on service!!). Everyone at Club Grill made the night so special and magical and this truly put a smile on both of our faces!
I admit, I am used to experiencing top quality/very nice places, but even this place truly impressed me, and that says a lot.
Can't wait to come back to Club Grill at the Ritz, next time I'm in Cancun.
Thanks again to Oscar, the manager, chef and team/staff at Club Grill. You truly made this night special for us and you rock!!
Lesley Hunter