I suggested this place to celebrate my son's birthday...
Surprisingly, even on a weeknight, the place was packed. Luckily, we made RSVP in advance, so was able to slide into one of their cramped seats.
In any case, we started with their appetizer special, Shanghai Shrimp (their version of Bang Bang Shrimp), which was really good...but really a small portion for the $17 pricing. Think we actually had this the first time we were here too. For entrees, my son got Steak Frittes, my husband ordered this BBQ Chicken dish (forgot the name), and I got their Epic Parmigiana with Linguine.
Well, unfortunately, I wasn't a fan of my dish...it was too heavy on the red sauce...and the Chicken Parmigiana was too thick. The portions were huge though. I definitely liked what I had the first time here much more...thought their Short Rib was solid!
Think the highlight for me was the drink I ordered...this Toasted Coconut Martini.
I know more and more restaurants are skipping on complimentary bread service, but it's something that's quite disappointing. They did offer a nice birthday card for my son, but frankly, I expected a bit more hospitality for his birthday. BTW, our server was fine, but wasn't particularly attentive.
Like I mentioned, I was the one that recommended this restaurant for the special occasion...but frankly, I'm just not sure if this is a good place to celebrate special occasions. Although I like their diverse menu, I'm on the fence with the ambiance.
While the setting itself is nice (I love the contempo "alcohol" paintings on the wall), and the Frank Sinatra overhead (though very muted and mumbled!), there's definitely something offputting. For one, the acoustics is so loud, it's kind of hard to talk to each other...and by the time we left, I almost had a headache. Secondly, I hate their harsh lighting. It's very dark, then this lamp causing this harsh stage lighting?!? I felt like I was in some "Rocky Horror Picture Show". Just not a comfy or cozy vibe at all. Also, near impossible to take a decent picture of the foods with the harsh lighting. Lastly, I'm just not a fan of their cramped, half-booth seatings. This is the second time we ended up in one of their tight half-booths (despite my request for a 4x4 table). There are only a few full tables...and I feel sure they reserve those for their favorite, regular guests.
As much as I THOUGHT I liked the place the first time, I left not liking the place this time. Who knows...maybe we'll return one day to try something else on the menu, but I won't be itching to run back here anytime soon. I'll also probably try to sit in their patio areas instead...since I can't stand the acoustics, harsh lighting and the half-booths inside. read more