My wife and I have had SMB on our list for several months. Something always gets in the way of making it there. We had friends from Canada in town and SMB seemed like a great choice for something unique. When we arrived, we were told they wouldn't be using the dim sum carts because they weren't very busy. That was disappointing, because that's part of the uniqueness.
Our server was very friendly, and she explained the menu to us, saying that the dishes are served family style, and meant for sharing. Now correct me if I'm wrong, but when I hear the words "family style", I'm thinking the portions will be enough to share among 4 people and each have a decent portion to appreciate the flavors. We weren't told otherwise.
We ordered the Arepas de Queso, at $12, and the Pork "Wings" at $14. There were 2 Arepas on the plate, probably about the size of a small to-go cup lid for reference. We were a little shocked. I cut them in half and we each had a small bite of the Arepas. What we had tasted good, and I think there might have been some kind of freeze dried corn as a garnish. The pesto was tasty (there was a LOT on the plate). The "wings" arrived with 3. They were REALLY spicy; there wasn't a spice level on the menu. Had there been, we'd have chosen something else since our friends don't like spicy food. The pork tasted like it had been warmed up from a previous day. It wasn't very good. We added the croquetas at $12, which came with 3. They were pretty crunchy and a little hard to cut. We divided them as best we could. They were just okay. I've had a lot better.
For our large plate, we chose the Churrasco at $35. I've been to Brazilian steakhouses, so when I read the word "Churrasco", I expect a larger portion. Not so fast. I think all 4 of us were really offended at the lack of food on our tray. 2 SMALL portions of steak for 4 to share, (it was well-prepared), 5 thin pieces of chorizo sausage, 2 pieces of flatbread about the size of a skinny cracker and a nice portion of tomatoes. And FOUR fingerling potatoes: not sure whose fingers they used for measuring those. FOUR POTATOES, probably about the size of a toddlers big toe. Not kidding.
We were planning on having dessert, but decided to get our money's worth on delicious ice cream at Sweet Cow. The bill was $100 with a tip. I could take that $100 and replicate that meal at home and still have $85 left. There was a point during our meal, where the cooks were standing around visiting, and one was on his phone. We were seated near the kitchen. I just can't describe how disappointed I am. And I was a little embarrassed since I had been talking up SMB for days.
The decor is nice, but it's really dark inside once the sun goes down. I like to be able to see my food when I'm eating. Could be the reason why the chorizo looked really gray.
Maybe we chose a bad night, and this is the exception not the rule. We'll never know. read more