I made plans to come and see my friend and we talked about doing a little Galantines dinner since I live in a different state so she gave me three different options and I chose here, the menu looked great and the location seemed prime so we made reservations back In February to come on Thursday March 5th, 2026 at 7:30pm. Elderwood is located in the darling hotel in downtown Visalia on the rooftop, it's a small beautiful location with indoor and outdoor seating, we decided to sit outside the weather was nice but there was a bit of a breeze we asked of a heater could be brought closer to us in which it did when we were done with our dinner. My friend and I dressed up nice only to find people wearing sweatshirts sweats, jeans and whatever else they found in their closet next time I know I can just come as I am, but hey we dressed up to feel good and look out best and we did! Our server wasn't very attentive she only had one other table outside and didn't seem to engaged we started by splitting a Caesar salad and ordered a lemon drop martini, we sat and chatted then she took our entree order in which we both ordered the roasted chicken. The food came and it was absolutely delicious incredible flavor the chicken wasn't dry, we continued to catch up the server came by when we half way through our meal to check on us, we did have another drink with our dinner, the lemon drops were fantastic. Overall location was prime food and drinks were excellent and service was mediocre at best but again why do I even have my hopes up for? I need to go in expecting less so when it actually is average at best I won't be disappointed like I am, like I said in this economy if I'm willing to spend my money at least act like to you care to help is that too much to ask? read more

Elderwood - Roasted chicken - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Visalia, California

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To start, there was no silver wear at our table and we only got silverware by asking after our appetizer arrived, we received our napkins just as our meal arrived (our poor server was searching for a while then had to tend to other tables then after the second ask was able to track some down). We got the spicy shrimp appetizer,12 oz New York strip, the lobster with mash potato's and Mac and cheese. Food was okay, price tag was steep for the quality. Especially considering, the "from the grill" section did not come with a side had to be ordered separate and food came out lukewarm but flavor was good (except the mash potato's they were bland). Drinks were good. Additional note: having bathroom lights that are on sensors, don't work well for people in stalls. Having to sit in a dark restroom while using the facilities is not an enjoyable experience. Two stars because the overall vibe is decent and drinks are good. Food is just ok for a luxury price and staff is not set up for success. read more

I had out of town guests this weekend and suggested going to the Elderwood restaurant. I've enjoyed this restaurant the dozen or so times I've gone. And have had excellent service, and superb food. However, tonight I have never been so embarrassed and disappointed. My friends got there before me and were all enjoying drinks and appetizers at the bar when I arrived. The restaurant was quite busy due to prom. Even the elevators weren't running properly due to kids wanting prom photos inside of them. I made it to the lounge and walked up to the bar to greet my friends, and was immediately confronted by a waiter who told me,"This isn't a standing bar, and there are no empty seats. You'll have to go down stairs and wait for us to let you know when a seat is available." I've never been so humiliated and embarrassed in my life. There are so many ways this could've been handled differently, politely discreetly, kindly, but this was the choice, to publicly shame me for greeting my friends and "standing" near them for less than 2 minutes. We were celebrating a friend, and were planning on drinks, appetizers, and dinner. With there being 6 of us, and that would have been a sizable check. I went down to the concierge, explained the situation, and asked who the manager was, only to be told that this is the restaurants policy. She looked at the video of the bar and said, "it is really crowded at the bar right now", to which one of my friends who left with me said,"yeah, that's our group, and now we are leaving". The concierge came over and gave me a card to contact someone else. But it was little too late. I can't recommend this restaurant due to such rude service. read more

This was my second visit to Elderwood in Visalia, and both experiences were fairly consistent. Starting with the positives, the food is reliably good. You're not going to have a bad meal here. Everything I've had has been well-prepared and enjoyable, and that's the strongest part of this restaurant. Getting there is a bit of a process. You'll likely need to park across the street, walk into The Darling Hotel lobby, take the elevator up, and then walk up two more flights of stairs to reach the restaurant. Not a huge deal for most people, but if stairs are an issue, this is something to be aware of. Service has been average overall. On my first visit, the waiter was solid. On this most recent visit, our waitress seemed overwhelmed, like she had too many tables to manage effectively. It wasn't bad service, but it definitely lacked attentiveness. The cocktails are good, but the pricing is inconsistent. Most drinks fall in the $14-$16 range, which is expected for a place like this. But a $20 Old Fashioned is hard to justify, especially when I've paid less for the same drink at higher-end spots like the Ritz-Carlton. Because of that, I skipped drinks for myself this time around. The biggest issue, and ultimately the reason I likely won't return, was the seating. We had a 5:30 reservation and were seated facing directly into the setting sun. For about 90% of the meal, I was literally shielding my eyes with the menu just to see. What made it worse is that there were multiple open tables in shaded areas, both on our side and across the restaurant, as well as completely open seating inside. For most of our meal, large sections of the restaurant weren't even being used. This wasn't a situation where they were slammed and had no options. There were clearly better seating choices available, and we still ended up stuck at one of the worst tables in the place. It felt inconsiderate and avoidable. I don't mind paying for a good meal, but I'm not paying to sit there squinting through most of dinner when it didn't have to be that way. Bottom line: the food is good, the atmosphere has potential, but the service and overall decision-making, especially with seating, need improvement. Because of that experience, I don't plan on coming back. read more

Have been here multiple times for happy hour. We just moved here a few months ago and so far this is the best espresso martini we have had in the Central Valley! The pork belly bites were delicious too! read more

Elderwood - Espresso martini and pork belly bites were amazing! - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Visalia, California

First timer! Came for brunch with my friend, our waitress was so sweet and suggested a mocktail for my friend she loved. Passed all the vibes, will def be back read more

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Parking 10/10- plenty of parking next to the hotel that took about 50 steps (could be more with these short legs). Inside 10/10- Just amazing and comfortable in the inside as is outside. Outside is better due to the fresh air Service 10/10- Well dressed, neat and clean professional with great smiles and giving the customers they enjoy their job attitude. Food 10/10- Fresh, affordable and beautiful Ambiance 10/10- Beautiful outdoor patio seating with warmers around the tables, plants and the fog just created a whole new experience. A beautiful building taking up a whole block in downtown Visalia for passerby's has a hidden brunch spot. Inside The Darling Hotel is Elderwood Restaurant serving super strong mimosas, fresh delicious food and friendly smiles. By far one of the best service I've received in town when dining out. Your wallet wouldn't be disappointed neither. If you're ever in town and in search for a great brunch spot look no further. Elderwood to the rescue with not a wide range menu items therefore making it easier for the indecisive hungry foodie like me. I am glad I was dragged there instead of a Waffle House Thank you again for the wonderful experience Elderwood and staffs. read more

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We stayed at the hotel so it was convience to just go up to the roof top for dinner on the 5th floor. We love the art deco vibes, probably one of the nicest restaurant in town. Beautiful bar and a cozy dining room, howeverwe choose to sit outside by the fire pit to enjoy the roof top view. We were sitted promptly even without reservation. Both host and server were friendly. We order drinks and salad and a few small bites, the pork belly was my favorite. The shrimps were a bit salty. I like the salad as well, tender chicken, balance dressing and really like the roasted grapes added in there. Overall it was solid and a great place for dinner if you are on your way to Sequoia and Kings Caynon NP. read more

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Last minute decision with no reservations, luckily we were able to get a table inside. The indoor dining was a beautiful ambiance. The service here was amazing as well as the staff . Our drinks were great, the food was hot and we loved the Mac and cheese. read more

Elderwood - Blueberry lemon drop Old fashion - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Visalia, California

We have eaten at the Elderwood in the past and found it overpriced and underwhelming. We hadn't been back in a couple of years but heard that they had made some changes so we decided to try it again. Our most recent visit was a much better experience. The ambiance was nice as usual but the food was much better than it used to be. The menu had a broader selection than before and the quality and flavors were a welcomed improvement. The bar has great drinks and a great selection of zero proof cocktails if you are not a big alcohol drinker. The service was pleasant as usual and with the new menu the Elderwood is now one of our favorite restaurants in the area. If you haven't been in a while I'd recommend giving them another try. I can easily see us becoming regulars here. Atmosphere: 4/5 Service: 5/5 Food: 4/5 Value: 4/5 Total: 4.25/5 Price: $$ Rating Criteria: 1/5: Terrible, would not recommend 2/5: Not good but not the worst. Might be worth it depending on price and other factors. 3/5: Solid option. Average in this category for the area. 4/5: Above average and excels in this area. 5/5: Excellent, needs no improvement Pricing Criteria: $: $0 - $50 per person $$: $50 - $100 per person $$$: $100 - $200 per person $$$$: $200 - $500 per person $$$$$: $500+ per person *Please keep in mind that the reviews posted here are based on personal experience which may differ from person to person based upon a multitude of factors (individual/specific workers, time of day, personal preferences, etc). Pricing may also differ and is reflected here based on what we paid for our meal. We usually enjoy multiple courses with our meals including appetizers, salads, entrees, desserts, and sometimes drinks or tasting menus when available. You are always encouraged to do your own research if concerned about potential pricing.* read more

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This is a beautiful bar located inside the Darling Hotel. It has a gorgeous patio overlooking the city. It was freezing when we went, so we sat inside at the bar top. I ordered the signature Darling drink. My husband at the guava mimosa. Both drinks were great. Mine had a beautiful carved ice flower. The service was great and the restaurant is beautiful. It has the classic old school charm with some modern twists. We didn't eat, but the food menu looked great. I'd definitely come back. read more

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Food, Service, Ambiance, YOU CHECK ALL THE BOXES ELDERWOOD! This is a High End Restaurant/Hotel, so don't go expecting to pay $30 for 2 people Go when you have the $$ ya'll it's something everyone should experience in little Visalia! :) bread and butter is great! The hibiscus drink was my fav, & the fig appetizer?? Oh man, like I said... CB rocked all the boxes! Thank you ELDERWOOD read more

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We'd been looking forward to coming here for some time since it was renovated a few years ago. Had to wait for the right occasion and good weather since most seating is outside. Having not been there earlier, we can't comment on the reviews complaining about recent menu changes, but we were pleased with our Caesar salad, strawberry salad, herb-roasted chicken with mashed potatoes, and salmon with jalapeño rice cake. The salmon was perfectly prepared--lightly crisped on the outside, moist and tender inside in a slightly sweet beurre blanc sauce. Portions were generous without being overwhelming, and the quality of food left us satisfied without dessert. Our wines were both good as well. Service could have been just a little more attentive and there was a minor error in one order, but the server was friendly and knowledgeable. We would come again for another special occasion. read more

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I came here for breakfast and honestly I was thinking it was going to be like any other breakfast place, but nooooo....it's AMAZING!!! So good!! I was seated outside with my girlfriends, and of course they have heaters and I didn't feel a chill! I ordered the 2 egg breakfast, and it was delicious! I can't explain the taste of everything, you have to try for yourself, and to be honest, I am obsessed with the PEPPER!!! ...yes the PEPPER!! I don't know where they get the spice from, but I want it. Customer service is top notch here, I felt very welcomed. I will definitely be back!! read more

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The vibe man. The vibe. That's what you pay for and that's what you get x2. Wonderful location, maybe the best in Visalia for how it is.

My first time going here was amazing. I got salmon which came with forbidden rice and it was phenomenal. I thought about it continually for months. The reason I gave 4 stars is because the second time I went I got a different salmon dish and it was way too rich. The rice cake helped a little, but I was extremely disappointed after having such a great first meal there. But the side of potatoes was so delicious. The cheesecake was also good. My dad liked his dish. I can't remember which pasta he got. I would return but would not get that salmon dish again. read more

Elderwood - Salmon, pasta, carrots - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Visalia, California

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A little sad about this place because it used to be a favorite destination of mine in the Central Valley, but since the last menu change around March 2025, I am not as big of a fan as before. They took away one of my favorite things which is the bread (used to be complementary), and the replacement brioche roll is mediocre at best. The brioche at Whole Foods tastes better than that tbh. At least they kept the honey butter which is outstanding. The new burrata dish isn't super great either. Pork belly was just okay. I swear everything used to be so much better in the previous menus. Of course, they raised the price by quite a bit as well in the new menu. For the new menu, I'd probably give it a 3.5 star since the service is still very good and the view doesn't change. But I'm not excited about the food anymore. Sad. read more

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Such a cool spot in Visalia! It's located inside the Darling Hotel, and when I walked in, the concierge got the door for me! The hotel smells super yummy, and it's got great art deco vibes!! I didn't snap any pics of the hotel lobby or even of the restaurant, but I did of the elevator (lol!) and the food! The bar/restaurant is on the top floor, and I sat outside (it was 85 degrees) at the rooftop bar. Great views of DT! I got the shishito peppers, which were awesome! They have a slight sweetness to them from drizzled agave, and are served with a charred lemon, sea salt and micro greens. For my main, I got the salmon, but I subbed the rice cake out for veges. It's served with a really yummy white sauce (honey lemon beurre blanc) and cilantro oil (I couldn't really taste the cilantro oil). And then sprinkled with more micro greens! This dish was also great!! I didn't have any room for dessert, so hoping next time I will! Service was pretty good! read more

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Although a bit pricey, their drinks and food are good quality and they change up their items seasonally. I enjoy both the outdoor and indoor seating depending on the weather. Servers are always quite attentive and don't rush you. I've been there when the bartenders have some specials and want your input on new drinks. Overall, always a fun time! read more

Elderwood - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Visalia, California

The rooftop seating is amazing! Outdoors and nice view of downtown Visalia. Our server Jack was super attentive and friendly. They seem to be understaffed so we waited a while for our food. I had the best chilaquiles yet and I've had a few of them. We seated on a table that was facing the sun so it wasn't the best but the rest of the tables seem perfect. Overall great brunch! We will come back for more. read more

Elderwood - Chilaquiles - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Visalia, California

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This place is the bee's knees. What a fabulous find in downtown Visalia! I was led here in two ways: a conference at the nearby Convention Center and a PBS special highlighting Visalia. Once I learned of the Darling Hotel and its rooftop restaurant, Elderwood ~ just a few blocks from where my conference would take place ~ I knew I had to give them a go. So glad I did. Super classy, upscale Art Deco inspired bar area on the top floor of the wholly renovated Darling Hotel. Got to enjoy an early breakfast here on my first morning. Rooftop dining areas with views for days. Open air but cozy with gas fire pits and overhead heaters, which made an early February dinner more than comfortable ~ even though the ambient temp was so chilly that I actually saw my breath at one point! Breakfast was delicious. Brilliant combo of perfectly poached eggs Benedict served with asparagus, hollandaise pulling it all together. Great simple drip coffee. Fabulous, friendly and swift service. The next evening, I enjoyed a delightful sunset dinner from the rooftop patio. More great service. Opted for the orange burrata and gnocchi. The former was an incredible melange of flavors beautifully presented. The only downside of both meals I enjoyed here was the gnocchi. I was anticipating soft pillows of goodness with small chunks of butternut squash and sage leaves but instead got firm, pan-fried gnocchi in a thick squash puree with little to no detectable sage. Still a fine dish (and certainly a generous portion), but this offering left a bit to be desired. All in all, I give Elderwood an enthusiastic 4.9 stars ~ let's round to 5. Would rush back in a heartbeat! read more

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We were staying in Visalia for a trip to Sequoia, Kings and Yosemite. We had dinner at Elderwood and it was a lovely experience. We at out on the rooftop dining area. The drinks, while very pricy, were definitely delicious. My husband got the old fashion and it was $28 second drink get got a house special which was $17 and he said just as delicious. The food was fabulous. I had the shrimp scampi linguini and my husband had the flank steak. The portions were generous and the flavors divine. I highly recommend. read more

We had a large party and the restaurant asked us to make 3 separate reservations. When we arrived, they refused to put us at tables in the same section. Instead splitting our party at opposite ends of the restaurant. Even though there were ample tables in the same section. Completely ridiculous. We left and ate someplace else. read more

I have given Elderwood several chances after our bad experience, and I am super pleased to say that they have exceeded my expectations every time. Our service has always been exceptional. We love the environment and vibe. The food is always delicious and is beautifully presented. We love it so much we make it a part of our budget to stay at the Darling and eat at Elderwood. The heaters and fire on the patio allow you to enjoy the views all year long. It's an escape within Visalia and it's worth every penny! read more

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Pretty good food! The shrimp scampi was so well flavored and seasoned. They did mix up a dish from chicken to salmon but made up for it by not charging for it, so very excellent service too. If you want something more upscale in Visalia, this is the place to come. Close to a city lot for free 2 hour parking and located on the 4th floor. read more

Elderwood - Shrimp scampi - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Visalia, California

The bar/restaurant were beautiful. The food was excellent. Where they seem to fall short is in service. There was a transition in day vs night shift during my meal. Two night bartenders came on and one asked me what I needed while the bartender who took my order and served me my food and cocktail clocked off. I said I needed a water and ordered another cocktail. Neither came. The bartender appeared to get very busy with other orders and in the meantime I finished my meal. So I said "if you haven't started my cocktail don't worry. I'll just take my check" and the bartender replied "I'm sorry what was it?" I understand that people get busy. Then write it down. But to forget the order of a person literally sitting in front of you is not good service. Thankfully I was almost down with the meal and could pay and get out. read more

Bartender was nice, drinks were amazing. The cocktails I tried were high-end. Elegant atmosphere at the unique bar. Cozy vibe on the rooftop patio. Overall upscale experience. I'm so glad I got to experience it. Highly recommended if you are in the area. read more

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This was the most disappointing dining experiences I've ever had. We are coming from Monterey area to visit family/ celebrate my sister in laws birthday. We dined in 3/24 and had reservations at 745. To start, my fiancés cocktail was oddly presented -- he ordered a ranch water and it came in a Pellegrino bottle, which felt lazy and completely off-putting rather than creative. Timing was off with our starters and entrees- they were dropped at nearly the exact same time, making it obvious there was zero pacing or coordination coming from the kitchen. It only got worse from there -- the food arrived cold. Our mac and cheese was cold, the pork chop dish was cold, and at that point it felt like no one in the kitchen cared enough to check what they were sending out. To be clear, this wasn't on our server -- they were doing their best in what seemed like a poorly run system. The issue is clearly with management and kitchen execution. Our server let us know that they would be taking the pork chop, mac n cheese, and kids burger off the tab. Even after all this the manager couldn't care to come out and apologize or make things right. For the price point (we paid $230) and expectations, this experience felt sloppy, careless, and not worth it. I wouldn't come back. read more

The service was fine. First time here, everyone wanted to sit outside. Obviously. Beautiful view. We loved the food and didn't have to take anything home. I've got to assume the dinner menu is better though. read more

Elderwood - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Visalia, California

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They are flexible and accommodating, our party was about 25 minutes late and they had no issues with that. Other places you'll lose your reservation, but they were very kind about it. It was five of us ladies celebrating my birthday early and my friend Sis's late bday. We actually got a dining room table, which worked out because it was pretty hot that day. I would love to sit on the patio once the weather becomes more temperate. The drinks were delicious- the original mimosa with fresh squeeze orange juice was great. I sampled the pineapple one that my friends got, also delicious. I decided to try their espresso martini, and it definitely stands out from a lot of others- there is a very distinct coffee taste to it and you can't really detect the alcohol. It was just delicious and balanced. The food portions are not humongous however, it's enough food to fill you up, I got the crabcake Benedict, which was very fresh and tasty. Everyone else enjoyed their dishes as well. They brought us complementary cupcakes with a candle and service overall was just really good. I look forward to coming back again. read more

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Very good food! Always busy, but totally worth it. A great spot for a date or special occasions.

The service seemed to extremely slow - for a party of 4 compared to the larger parties - my tea and our drinks were not refilled at all and we were there for a little over 2 hours - I hope the tip reflected the service . read more

Short haired bartender with blonde highlights had horrible customer service. I asked about a Hapanese whiskey she said it was like scotch. I don't like Highland scotches because they're too peaty. So I asked about that. She walked away when she came back I asked her again about the Japanese whiskey's to which she said I wouldn't let her talk. I apologized and asked her to continue to which she said "that chapter has been opened and closed". So I shut my mouth, a little bit later she came back and tried to smooth things over with my wife and asked if I would like another drink. To which I said, no you've been an asshole. The bar manager intervened said he would take over and brought me my tab for $39.06, but when he came back after running my card the bill was $52 and change. While getting that rectified I looked over at the bartender and she stuck her tongue out at me. The bar manager said he would talk to her but honestly I know he won't. It's really a shame too because my wife and I have had a lot of enjoyable experiences there, but I'm not going back to a place that keeps those two employed. How do you accidentally change a $39.06 tab to a $52 tab? You don't! He was being malicious and dishonest. read more

The eggs Benedict were perfectly cooked, the hollandaise sauce was very tasty and just the right viscosity, and the Canadian bacon was good. The accompanying fried potatoes were great and not the least bit oily. The service was also very good. read more

I had such an amazing time at the Elderwood, my favorite local spot for great food and an amazing craft cocktail when I'm visiting Visalia from the OC. The ambience is unmatched, super moody, fun, swanky. John & Eileen have extensive knowledge of their menu and are super creative so don't be afraid to ask them for some off menu suggestions!! read more

Elderwood - Hot toddy & New York sour - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Visalia, California

Never disappoints!! Everything here is dialed in and on point. From the mixed cocktail drinks to the appetizers and food. Service is always top-tier and Daisy was a charm. This is place to go for intimate dining and drinks. Whether it's a date night or a night out with friends or family. This IS the only place to go for a guaranteed amazing time. read more

Elderwood - Shmedium Rare Perfection!! - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Visalia, California

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I was recommended this place and ended up not having a good experience. The first half of dining in was enjoyable. Our waiter was fantastic, but at the end, the manager, Robert in blue and short guy, came up to ask for a chair that was occupied and to tell us there was a reservation limit, even after ordering after the limit was uncalled for. In the end, we had a respectful conversation about miscommunication. However, as we were leaving, he didn't need to make a comment "when the liquor hits". It was very disrespectful on his part because we have already settled the miscommunication issue. I hope whoever is seeing this, need to acknowledge that he should have kept in his instead of pretending to understand and then make an output of pocket comment that doesn't help in any situation what so ever. having talked to the manager, Robert, the one in the blue and short guy, read more

The view at sunset is beautiful. The orange burrata was delicious. Shrimp scampi was one of the best I have had! All the staff is very helpful and friendly. read more

Elderwood - Burrata - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Visalia, California

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Went to Elderwood about a week ago and it was a terrific experience. Everything from the appetizer to the dessert was amazing. We sat outside on the patio, which was well lit by a fire pit and string lights! It was the perfect temperature with the heaters on as well. I highly recommend the spicy shrimp appetizer and the herb roasted chicken. Our waitress Makayla was very tentative, communicative, and polite. I will definitely be asking for her service again in the future. Overall, a wonderful experience! read more

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Decided to make the drive and try this place for brunch. The restaurant itself is located upstairs from the main lobby of the hotel. I sat inside just because it was a bit cold during my visit. The service was attentive and friendly. The matcha drink was my favorite. The espresso martini was also better than most I've tried. The steak chilaquiles plate was a good size and the chips were crunchy. I ordered a side of potatoes to go with my crab cake Benedict. The serving was a little smaller than I anticipated. The potatoes were seasoned well and cooked perfectly. I would definitely love to come back for dinner when the weather is warmer. read more

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