I feel like a total turd for writing a very critical review based on a single experience - a VIP grand opening party. I've decided to do it though because it was probably enough to keep me from returning on my own dime.
When a restaurant hosts a media/corporate/vip event I kind of expect them to have their A game on. I'd never post a glowing review without having a return visit as a normal person but in this case they probably turned me off completely so I feel I can write that review.
Two positives of the night:
The Teppanyaki chefs were very entertaining. The guy frying up rice was forming the piles into hearts and using it as a way of flirting with all the ladies that were standing around watching. I assume this is a regular feature and something that would normally add a little extra excitement and flare to a dining experience.
There was a tasting of sake which was very interesting. It was being served cold (don't try that at home with a cheap sake though...) which I found interesting and we ended up getting into a very interesting conversation about sake. It was very informative but probably not a regular feature in the restaurant.
The negatives:
The service. Not a single server spoke a word to me. At first I tried to get the attention of someone to take a drink order or to order something from the menu as the samples were few and far between. In the end, I was kind of just curious if I could get attention with eye contact alone. The answer was sadly no.
The food. I think they invited too many people or logistically didn't plan this party out. There wasn't much food and what I did try was very disappointing. I had half a spring roll which was from frozen and I'm not sure it was even heated. It was very cold even though I saw it walk out of the kitchen. The fried rice I enjoyed watching it made but it was just ok and probably too buttery in flavor. I talked to some that had gotten to try the sushi and it wasn't even made with great fish. I don't eat tuna but the word from the Teppanyaki fish was that is was too salty and fatty.
Unfortunately the two negatives are far more heavy than the two positives. When I left I regret having even made the trip downtown for that and that's kind of the overall feeling I'll carry with me from that experience.