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| - This space has so much possibility. They are in a great location, with a beautiful outdoor patio. The interior of the restaurant has potential, but it needs some TLC. Chipped paint and scuff marks on the walls. The bar area is very nice and has the high ceilings, some tasteful decor and a fresh coat of paint would really make me take this place seriously as an upscale dining choice. However, a fresh coat of paint and cohesive, updated decor can not make up for the below par food. The menu also needs some updating-again- identity crisis- what does Firewater want to be? An upscale, overpriced version of Chili's, Applebee's, Fridays, or an excellent unique gem in University City? I dined at Firewater on Friday. The hostess who seated me acted as if she were doing me a favor and gave me a lot of attitude when I asked if I could be seated far away from the very large speaker on the patio. (there was apparently a private party later that night)
My waitress was very personable, friendly and efficient. I ordered the Ribeye Pork Chops and the grilled seasonal vegetables on the side. The meal was bland, and nothing I couldn't make at home-better. For dessert, I ordered the Creme Brulee. This is by far one of my favorite desserts, but not at Firewater. It was cold through and through, which means that the top, carmelized crust, the "Brulee" was actually done hours earlier and then just served cold. I understand that each dessert cannot be made to order, but while 98% of the dessert is made in advance, the Brulee needs to be done right before serving.
I would go back for drinks on the patio, but one last comment on Firewater's ongoing identity crisis. After 9, 10 pm on weekend nights, the bar area turns into a rather uninviting Ghetto nightclub? Very strange/confusing- definitely cheapens the place and undermines any credibility as an upscale dining venue.
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