While in town for a business trip, my colleague and I decided to try Trips, at the hotel concierge's recommendation. I'm glad we did. It was AMAZING!
The restaurant is located in a rather unassuming intersection that's quite easy to miss for those not familiar with the area. The interior is upscale and very pleasing, with attention to details including fresh roses on each table. The decor allows the simplistic beauty of the food to really shine, though beauty isn't the only thing bringing folks to Trips. The restaurant buzzed with excited energy and was comfortably full with seemingly satisfied patrons. Being an out-of-towner, I was surprised at the warm greeting we received upon arrival. It was reminiscent of a 'Cheers' atmosphere. We felt genuinely welcomed and appreciated as patrons.
To start the dinner off, the owner sent an order of Crispy Zucchini to our table with his compliments. The sinfully delicious dish is truly remarkable, perfectly cooked and served with spicy cocktail sauce. A seemingly odd combination, but it works. The portions are generous and we had more than enough to share.
For the main course, I decided to go with Chicken Caponata; Pan seared breaded chicken cutlet topped with fresh diced eggplant, tomatoes, olives, and capers, sautéed in wine and garlic. Served with a generous side of pasta, it was enough to feed two people. The dish was executed perfectly, and the bright colors made it a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach. My colleague had the catfish and remarked that is was both fresh and delicious.
Even though every table was occupied, the staff's service timing was perfect. Our glasses were kept full and the pace of each course was just right.
Not big dessert eaters, we decided to split the apple tart. That was a mistake, only because it was so delicious, I would have enjoyed the entire piece by myself! My colleague said the same thing. It's a huge burst of flavor, and then the whole thing almost dissolves in your mouth. It's simply divine.
We had to ask for the check, which was a pleasant departure from places that just drop it off and forget about you. When the check arrived, we were shocked at how reasonable the total was. The servings were generous and the prices were more than fair, making the meal a delight in all ways. They continued to refill our iced tea and coffee glasses until we left, never making us feel rushed.
We enjoyed Trips so much, that for our business lunch the following day, we returned with our client, whom we were in town to meet with. True to their 'Cheers' atmosphere, the staff remembered us and gave us a huge, warm welcome. The four of us enjoyed a lunch that lived up to the expectations set by dinner the night before. It was so divine, I half-joked that this client should have us come for in-person meetings more often, so we can eat at Trips. read more