We just returned from lunch at the new Whiskey Warehouse and based on the very few (as of this writing) reviews out there on the internet we didn't know what to expect. I have to say that I was pleased with the experience overall. We used to frequent the previous establishment at this location called Creation and wondered how they would change the layout and decor. Well, it's nothing at all like the former restaurant. It truly has the look and feel of a combination saloon and warehouse - hence the name (with a few high tech touches thrown in). A lot of dark woods and an open floor plan make it inviting and unpretentious. The long bar which goes nearly 3/4 of the length of the restaurant is sure to be one of the neighborhood's most popular draws.
Even with the small amount of people in there at 11:45 a.m. on a Wednesday I was surprised at the noise level. My dining partner and I had to talk loudly to be heard. I think it was partially because there was a large 50" television with the volume on less than two feet from us coupled with the exposed ceiling and general openness that doesn't absorb sound. If that place ever fills up it will be ear shattering. At the very least they should mute all of the televisions so people don't have to talk over them - with the exception of maybe during Panthers games or larger events like the Superbowl.
My dining partner and I enjoyed the food but didn't partake in any libations since it was still the middle of the workday. We plan to come back for a happy hour sometime in the near future. I had the prime rib sandwich and sweet potato fries. I would grade both at about a B. The well-seasoned beef was shaved instead of a big slab and I preferred it that way. The bun was nothing more than a large hamburger bun and I would have preferred a nice Ciabatta bun or Sour Dough hoagie instead. I also would have liked more of a kick in the horseradish mayo. It was a bit tame and I could barely taste the horseradish. The sweet potato fries were good but unspectacular. I mean, they are just fries so there's not much you can do with them, but they were worth the $1 up charge. Portions for both the sandwich and fries were large. I really felt like I got my $9 worth. My dining partner had the Whiskey Glazed Salmon Salad. She was very happy with it. She was certain the salmon would be overcooked as most restaurants do but she was happy with how it was finished. Her salad was also a very large portion and she said she would definitely order it again...in her words "a keeper."
The menu to us was just the right size. It was double-sided with about 30+ salad, sandwich and entree items plus 8 or so appetizers. There was a little something for every taste including vegetarians (but nothing vegan because of the dairy).
Again, we can't speak to the drink menu but it's clear they have just about anything you would want. There were a couple of drink specials written on the board so there is probably something for every budget too. I see this place becoming popular with the after work crowd. Since the bar is so large it seems like a nice place to belly up and hang out with coworkers and friends for a few cocktails on a Friday evening.
Service was fine. It was about what you would expect at your basic neighborhood restaurant - enough attention without feeling either swarmed over or neglected. Our water glasses were always full and the food was brought out in about 10 minutes.
I realize the place is new and has yet to develop a following but I was surprised at how empty it was at noon. It was just the two of us and a small group of firefighters from the next door station. There also appeared to be one of the owners or managers with a vendor at another table discussing business. But that was it the entire time we were there.
If this restaurant is to survive where others in this location have failed (and the owner is reading this) they need to get the word out aggressively. Word of mouth will only go so far. Consistently send around fliers to local businesses with drink specials and coupons and I predict they will fill the place very quickly. And if they keep serving good food with good service like they did today they will hit a home-run in the Plaza Midwood area.
I think 3 to 3.5 stars is appropriate. That doesn't mean it's bad, just not extraordinary. I'll call it above average. We will be coming back for sure.