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| - Me and a friend stopped in on a weeknight. I had made reservations, but they weren't needed. (see above) I'm told that it is pretty packed during lunch. We ate outside, so I can't really comment on the interior. From what I saw, it has a sleek modern look. The patio outside is small but the tables are well spaced and you are under an overhang to help keep the sun directly off of you. Which is awesome for those of us who shave their heads. (It's a lifestyle choice, dagnabbit)
I asked the server what they recommended and got a few good recommendations along with the suggestion that I had to try the African Peanut Stew. Who am I to disagree? So I got that and their BLT while my friend got their veggie big mac. Which is exactly what it sounds like, a big mac, but totally vegetarian.
A word before I go on. The server brought an entire bottle of water for our table so we could serve ourselves. For those of you who have had the unique pleasure of dining with me, this was the 2nd best thing that a server could do. (the 1st being "our meal is on the house" of course)
The peanut stew arrived and was delicious. I found myself scraping the bottom of the bowl wishing for more, when I remembered I had ordered the small version. Damn my fastidious calorie counting. The flavor is heavy on peanut, but mixes in curry as well. My friend and I split our sandwiches, so I had both the BLT and veggie big mac. I loved the presentation of the veggie big mac and thought it was delicious, but overall I thought the BLT was a bit tastier. The egg and toasted bread being the standouts for me.
Service was quick and attentive, but again as the only ones there, I cannot say it is always like this. In a complete stunner for myself, no alcohol was ordered so I cannot comment.
I went back and forth between 4 & 5 stars for Pura Vida. But really, the 4 stars would only have been because when I got there at 6:30 on a weeknight ,the place was completely deserted. That doesn't seem fair, so five stars it is.
I do have to say to give this place a try, inventive dishes, good service, reasonable prices and a great location in downtown Cleveland.
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