Ok, prepare yourself because this is going to probably be a long review. The short version is I wanted very much to rate this place 5 stars, considered 3, and split the difference at 4.
There were lots of really good things to say, starting with the valet. Upon arriving we were greeted warmly, but most impressive was on the way out, it was pouring hard, and we were escorted from the door to our car with an umbrella. Nice, very thoughtful.
Upon entering, we were greeted warmly by the hostess and promptly seated. You can't help but appreciate the beautiful restoration of this old church. The atmosphere and ambiance was great. The seating was plush and comfortable. Our server and all the staff (upstairs) were extremely friendly and polite. Service was spot on.
My wife and I shared the wedge salad as an appetizer and ordered cocktails. A very nice wine and cocktail selection btw. At this point, a solid 5 stars.
I ordered the Marsala veal chop, and my wife got the FRITTO MISTO DI MARE. She loved it. Fried calamari and seared ahi tuna was delicious. This dish would also make a great appetizer for 4 people.
As for me, the veal chop was best described as scrappy. Not much meat and not a good cut. Very disappointing.
Also worth mentioning was that there were no sides, not even a la carte. I would have loved a vegetable and starch. But it was not an option.
Down to 4 stars for me.
When we considered dessert, the selection was rather limited and they were out of what my wife wanted. Sigh. Passed on desert.
But what I was looking forward to was an after dinner cigar downstairs at "the library ". A speakeasy styled atmosphere with comfortable leather sofas and chairs. A nice walk in humidor. But that's where the excitement imploded. In stark contrast to the warm and friendly staff upstairs, the server there was neither friendly or even nice. Borderline rude. Maybe she was just having a bad night, but sure didn't seem like she wanted to be there. I ordered a bourbon, and was 3/4 done with my cigar before I politely asked her if she forgot. She sniped NO, and finally bought it. My wife had to wait even longer for her cocktail.
Speaking of the beverage selection, I hope you like bourbon, because that is mostly what they have. I asked for a single malt scotch, and all they had was some no name label I never heard of. You're better off getting your drink upstairs and bringing it down.
The cigar selection was also pretty weak. I didn't see anything really premium, and settled on a My Father La bijou.
If I was just reviewing the cigar bar, it would probably be a 2. It certainly brought down the overall experience.
All of that said, I would come back for another try. But there is certainly room for improvement here to make it an exceptional experience. read more