While I have dined at other Morton's locations, this was my first time at this one. I'd become aware of an advertised "deal" on a three-course meal from a limited menu but the real draw was the bottle of Daou "The Pessimist" at $36.00! I...couldn't resist it. So made a reservation and was joined by a friend.
It was a Sunday evening so parking on the street right in front of the restaurant was available and free. Upon entering the building, I was surprised to discover the restaurant was down a level in what I would usually think of as the "basement". It required going down a flight of narrow and somewhat steep stairs. If there was an elevator, I didn't see it. We managed just fine. But, I could see it being an issue for elderly or those with mobility problems.
We were seated in a comfortable and quite roomy booth and informed "Graham" would be our server. We ordered beverages including the bottle of The Pessimist and listened while Graham told us about the menu. We really had no intention of ordering from the much more costly menu so I didn't pay a lot of attention to what he was saying. And, when he finished, I inquired about the special menu for the "deal" that was ending that same night. He very cheerfully brought us those menus and did not appear to be, in any way, put off by the fact we were not going to be "high-flying" customers running up a large tab. I informed him we were in no hurry and would be there for quite a bit catching up.
Graham was outstanding. He accommodated our requests and paced his service to what he perceived were our preferences. The wine service, a personal pet-peeve of mine, was unusally good. I never had to ask for more, he never overpoured so as not to have to do it as often, and the bottle was always facing us. He was also quite personable. And very attentive to the table without being intrusive. When my friend wished to find the "powder room", Graham pulled the table out for her and then made sure to be aware of her return so he could do it again.
The meal was very good. I started with Onion Soup, which I enjoyed. The cut of steak wasn't a thick ribeye that I normally order. But, it was tasty and cooked perfectly. The serving of mashed potatoes it rested on was quite plentiful and also very tasty. And the Creme Brulee, which I hadn't had in a very long time, was excellent.
Our reservation was at 6:00 and we didn't leave until well after 10:00. At no time did we feel pressured to leave. Admittedly, the room was not full. But, Graham would walk by from time to time to be sure we didn't need anything.
I don't know when I'll return to this restaurant. But if/when I do, I'll be sure to ask for Graham. Simply OUTSTANDING!More