I loved the Palm Cafe, but waited to go to the new location and new theme. Mostly, because I thought the ambiance would be lacking. Low ceilings and high prices, why not go to the Chart House and have a view?
First issue; the smoking section, right outside the front door, must be moved. Gross to walk through a cloud of smoke to get to the main door. On my walks I have seen staff in the back of the restaurant smoking, and this was one more reason I hesitated in going to try out the new restaurant. I do not want to smell cig smoke on my server. I do not want to wonder if they washed their hands before touching my service items.
We were greeted by an owner and given a full tour. The decor and lighting are wonderful, low ceilings not noticed. A wine consultant came to our table to offer suggestions. I opted to have a Pomegranate Martini. YUM. My friend ordered a split of champagne. The busser also came to introduce himself. Then our waiter, going over specials... Please note, it was early on a SAT night when we arrived. Once it got busy our perfect service went bye-bye. Our water glasses were empty most of the time, we sat with empty plates for over 25 mins. My feeling is that the server is used to a slower pace, and when he had 3 tables it was all over. Waiters with blinders can be given training. I started with my (training) lecture when he opened the split. He put his finger in his mouth! As to make a popping sound. I explained I was a germ freak and I hoped he would go wash his hands before touching any more of our service items.
Our appetizers of Avo Shrimp and the warm Octopus salad-Amazing!!! The Scallop Dinner special was fabulous, but there are only four scallops. Lemon sauce on the side, crazy good. House salads were on a cold plates, this is one of my pet-peeves. Cold should be cold, hot should be hot. There are a few steaks on the menu but none are organic, grass feed or sustainable raised. If Cuizine wants to get into the fine Chop/Shop of steaks, I'd recommend having other steak options. I will pay more for grass fed and organic, but I am not crazy about paying $38 for big Ag beef.
Dessert. The three trio Creme Burlee is out of this world. It was caramelized, then put in the frig. Perfect, cold and tasty. As was the dessert Chocolate Martini!
While were still sitting, our check holders were picked up without a word. There were other tables so it was not a case of needing to close the restaurant. I find it unwelcoming to pull checks from tables. It is like saying, we have your money, now go.
The food is amazing. I want this restaurant to succeed. I will be back, perhaps for Happy Hour and sample more of the Apps. I will make sure to request another server on my next trip to the dinning room. read more