This Anaheim favorite offers a fine-dining experience with its elegant atmosphere and exceptional New American cuisine. Ask to see the cellar to view its world-class wine inventory of 25,000 bottles. $$$

I took a group of business colleagues from our convention to the restaurant to negotiate a deal. Everyone enjoyed the place, and it's only 10 minutes in a car from the convention center, so it was worthwhile, but there were some problems.

First, the positives. We changed the number of people in the party several times and the restaurant coped with each change. We had a nice table in front of a fireplace (which did not need to be lit and was a bit warm). I was worried that there would be too much noise for us to talk, but it was fine. The place has a nice ambience, could be quite romantic (with different companions!). We skipped appetizers as we expected the portions to be large. The server tried to tempt us but didn't pressure us. We did give in to the desserts and they were ok. Taxis were ordered and arrived promptly when we were ready.

Now the negatives. The food was good but not as good as the price. I had rare ahi tuna which was cooked perfectly, but came with a 'vegetable spring roll' which was thick pastry with over-spiced filling. The main negative was the obtrusiveness of the server. We were engaged in serious conversation, and she just barged in each time she had something to say. She never said, 'I'm sorry to interrupt', or waited for an opening. This happened each time she arrived at the table and became noticeably disruptive. We realise that the servers have to do their jobs, but there is an art to doing it subtlely and this woman did not have it.

There are very few classy dining options close to the Anaheim convention center, so this is definitely worth a try. Just keep your expectations in check if you go there for business.

We came in with a convention group, but no expense accounts ;-0, so we were not intending to spend a lot. I thought the food was overpriced, and the server did seem to object that we just ordered main courses.
The company made good on the impression, however.

The piano player was wonderful!


Lots of convention attendees enjoying their expense accounts and their own voices.

For the price, the service should be better organized, more timely and more personal. One person brings bread and water...eventually. Someone gets your drink order (I sent back a glass of Zinfindel that had turned)and a third person takes your dinner order. Any of this group may reappear to serve portions of your dinner. A Lobster Bisque soup was delicious. Oso Bucco was totally lacking in seasoning and the gnocchi was tough.

When I asked my waitress (I think) to have the desk call a taxi, at the end of my meal, she forgot to pick up my check until I waved it at her. The taxi had come and gone. I waited 40 minutes for the second taxi which they finally called.

The manager was less than interested in this customer's evaluation. Too, bad, for I had eaten there before and enjoyed it. I come here often, but no more visits to Mr. Stox.

Signed,
Sleepy in Anaheim.