A Girl's Night Out Review by 2 opposite eaters
From the "Fussy and Finicky" Eater: When we got to the restaurant, I was impressed with the view out the windows... beautiful view of Leech Lake! Wish we could have sat on the patio, but it was too windy that day. The server took a little too long to get to us, but we were pretty patient. Then when the server took our order, she didn't write a thing down... that always concerns a fussy eater! When you ask for special things, like easy on the ice in your Pepsi or no veggies, you wonder if she'll get it right! I ordered the 8 oz Sirloin Steak with mashed potatoes and a salad. Dinner started with a salad, requesting only lettuce with French dressing for this fussy eater. No croutons, tomatoes, cukes or anything else! Lettuce was fresh and dressing was sweet and yummy! Then came the sirloin steak and mashed potatoes. I asked for no veggies, but they gave them to me anyway, so I gave them to Flexible Carol who will no doubt review them herself! I ordered the sirloin, (which by the way is not my favorite cut), medium rare, and it came almost medium rare. Just good enough to not send it back. The steak was not tough, had pink in it, and the seasoning was just right... not too salty or over spiced. The most surprising side on my dish were the potatoes... I hate lumpy mashed potatoes... OKJ I will say it.. I hate real potatoes solely for that reason... THE LUMPS! I hate lumps so much that I mostly eat instant mashed potatoes... take me back to the 70s and 80s when most restaurants served instant! Anyway... these potatoes even had the skins in them, but they were so smooth and creamy! Very pleasantly surprising! How did they do that??? Bottom Line? I will be back and try the Prime Rib!
From the "Flexible and Fun" Eater: The atmosphere on a summer evening is perfect. Windows lining the restaurant give a breathtaking view of Leech Lake. The 1920's décor is tasteful and elegant with rich, dark woodwork. As I entered the 502 through the bar, I was impressed with the high-top marble counter that filled the length of the area. I had made a reservation, first requesting the patio but no seating there because of the wind, so I requested a table near the window if possible. The host said she would try but no guarantee. When we arrived, the restaurant was nearly full, so our seat was in the middle of the room, but our view of the lake was still great. We waited about 10-15 minutes before our server attended to us, but once she did, her attention was good and consistent. I ordered the grilled shrimp dinner with wild rice and sauteed vegetables. It did not include a salad, so I ordered their house salad in addition. Within a few minutes our salads arrived. Mine was generous, fresh, loaded with raw veggies and the raspberry vinaigrette was tasty. Just a few minutes later, the entrees arrived. Mine was hot and fresh. The shrimp was grilled to perfection, but slightly plain and lacking a bit in flavorful spices. The wild rice was also hot, but on the plain side too, lacking in a robust flavor, so for this flexible but fun eater, I prefer a little more crunch and pizzaz with some extras such as walnuts, cranberries, and onions. The fresh veggies (squash, peppers, and onions) were sauteed to the perfect crispness. Our server gave us just the right amount of attention and conversation with a genuine, pleasant manner. So for fine dining along the water, rich ambiance, and a classic menu, this is a good choice. read more