We moved into the area a few months ago and had been trying to get into this restaurant for a while (appears to be quite popular so reservations are required). We finally went ahead and booked a Friday date night that worked. Disclaimer - we...eat out a fair bit, both for work and leisure. We do go to nice restaurants but look for unique / local / non-chain places when possible.
Couple of positives - we were seated as soon as we walked in (with reservation), and the cocktails were nicely done (average $12 and up). Décor was nice but oddly mismatched from outside to inside. It was nice, clean and white inside with a classy New England seafood restaurant vibe. Ambience was nice overall - not too loud so you could have a conversation. Portion sizes were reasonable.
Negatives - The server was inattentive and appeared to be inconvenienced by us being there. Forgot the wine that my wife asked for (we had to ask one of the folks delivering food to remind him to get it to us, 20 min after we ordered). Didn't know the menu - or even what was available on tap (beer). Had to read off his notes. Not what you expect from an upscale restaurant. We ordered oysters, but he made some recommendations for other oysters that were pricier, but tasteless....hmm. Thank goodness for tabasco sauce.
The food was absolutely bland - boring - average. My wife ordered Snow Crab legs as the entre. Sorry - "we have run out" - 6:45 pm on a Friday (interesting)...... The waiter suggested Alaskan King Crab legs (delivered overcooked and bland). The lobster butter was delivered on the side on a fancy elevated butter dish with a candle underneath. Except, it wasn't lobster butter - just warm butter we all have at home in our fridge. Small cup of fries on the side for $6 (!).
I ordered Fish and Chips. Came with side of fries. The pacific cod inside was good, but the batter was thick (no, very thick) and fried to an inch of its life. Reminded me of packaged fish fingers you buy in a cardboard box from a grocery store. very greasy and you had to use your strength to cut through the batter to get to the fish. Far below your average fish and chips.
Skipped desert, since we had had an appetizer. All in all, check came to $180 with tax and tip, for 3 drinks and a beer, 2 entres, 1 appetizer.
We wont be back - the kitchen may be having an off day, but for the price we paid, we expect a better experience overall. Too bad...More