For my birthday, combined with another special occasion for our family, we wanted to check out this place, and we were all looking forward to it.
This overall experience was like a roller coaster ride, to be honest... Highs and lows, and then there were moments when I was literally like huh/really. It all started upon arrival as the restaurant was located inside the hotel, so I pulled up to the valet area, but the valets just stood under the umbrella looking at us, then each other, and acted like there was no sense of urgency for us. That's not on the restaurant, but that's on the partnership they have, and that wasn't cool. After dropping off my family, I just decided to park across the street as I wasn't inclined to deal with them when they eventually came over with the "what do you want " attitude (REALLY!!)
The lobby is great, and the entrance to the restaurant is located on the 3rd floor. Upon arrival, we were eagerly greeted & quickly seated, but also had an opportunity to look around at the outdoor area and take a few photos to celebrate the occasion, which I have to say is pretty amazing. (HIGH). Our server was great to start, welcoming us for the first time and sharing a bit about the expected experience, which had our full attention. The staff members had the "all hands on deck" mentality and were quick to bring out waters, ice & the 1st round of cocktails. As for drinks, we had the Golden Ghost & some Rose.
We started off with several appetizers, particularly 2 of the highly rated sushi rolls (Desert Heat & Sonora Sunset, along with the KFC chicken. The sushi rolls both lived up to expectations (pricey). The KFC chicken was a generous portion to share, along with really good dipping sauces.
After receiving our appetizers, it seemed like everything went dark (LOW). There seemed to be a lapse in the same attentive service & follow-up with drinks, water, and just clearing up our area. Granted, other parties were arriving, so I get that it was getting busy, but we seriously got neglected for quite some time & I think someone noticed my "irritation". (LOW)
When everything did get back on track, we decided to complete our experience and do the Kauboi Cut aka the Tomahawk, tableside. I want my family to enjoy the experience.
The presentation of the tomahawk was good, and of course, like everyone, we all videotaped it. The steak was cooked to my liking (it was about me, Medium). When we initially chose it, we mentioned that some pieces would need to be cooked a bit more for 2 other guest and they would provide us with some hot stones once sliced. (Similar to how the Wagyu Fried Rice). Shortly after everything was sliced and ready to go we found ourselves looking around, wondering where the hot stones were and that took away from our experience (LOW).
For dessert, we had the Dark Chocolate Mousse. It wasn't until a reminder was said at the table about it being a birthday celebration and the afterthought of the Berries & Cream birthday dessert followed, which was complimentary. Our server did mention that they got overwhelmed, but given that we didn't see the supporting staff much, we felt like we simply got neglected.
Overall, the food was good. I think the timing of the service 'should' of been a lot better for a high-end experience. I was also disappointed when you talk about dress code expectations on the website, and yet when I arrive, I see people with Birkenstock sandals, ashy feet, tennis shoes, and other items specifically called out not to be worn...
This was a hard review to give to a place I want to return, but the inconsistent service really took away from our overall experience. read more