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| - I'm going to admit that I've never seen an episode of the show. The main catalyst for us even being here was because one of our birthday celebrants (our dear friend who definitely IS a fan of the show) really wanted to try this place. Lucky for her (as well as the rest of us) that this ended up being a fantastic idea.
Upon walking towards the entrance, one might say it is like a futuristic gateway to hell itself. I bet that was what they were trying to go for. And that's only the beginning of what we see from the decor. They have a wall of past winners as well as merchandise for sale.
The place is huge and seems to seat many people. And yet, it gets filled seemingly to capacity at prime time. Even later at night, guests continue to be seated when tables are freed up and prepared.
Even with a reservation, we still had to wait for a while, which didn't exactly surprise me since the place is ridiculously popular.
The kitchen is in clear sight and open for all to see. It is not an actual show, but it is modeled after it. Blue on one side, red on the other. Bandanas worn on their respective sides of the kitchen. They're not competing against each other, but they're preparing everything as fast and as fine in quality, presentation, and taste as possible.
I also had a couple of their featured cocktails. I originally wanted a Manhattan, but for another $1, I royally upgraded to an even more delicious Manhattan that came out of a smokey glass case.
For food, I went with the 3-course meal featuring the beloved Beef Wellington, which I had never had before. What a way to be introduced to it for the first time.
Here is a list of all the items we shared and tried:
Pan Seared Scallops with Celery root, braised bacon lardons, and pickled Granny Smith apples. $19
Scampi prawn flambé with Garlic white wine sauce and drawn butter. $24
Beef Wellington with potato puree, glazed root vegetables, and red wine demi-glace. $49
Herb crusted rack of lamb with vadouvan carrots, bloomsdale spinach, and harissa lamb jus. $39
Potato gratin with fresh herbs and parmesan cheese. $9
Sticky toffee pudding
Pineapple carpaccio (which was a special and not on the menu).
Our server was so amazing that I had to give him credit, even over the head chef!
FYI:
- As with many places in the area, get ready to spend, spend, spend.
- If you're going to get a Manhattan anyways, you're better off getting the special one that comes out of a smokey glass box for $1 more. It's definitely worth the attention from everybody around you. Plus, it tastes better.
- The imported sparking water probably goes for as much as Voss, and it's totally worth it. We went back to drinking regular water, and it was a rough transition.
I personally enjoyed coming here for dinner. It was a nice treat, and it definitely highlighted the great experiences I've had in this area. Unfortunately, I only speak for myself as I keep seeing comments on other reviews that the food was mediocre or just not good. I simply don't agree, but hey, the only good those comments might do for you if you are deterred from trying this restaurant is the fact that you'll save some money. Besides, I don't think they're exactly hurting for business, and any possible criticisms don't seem significant enough to generate pure hatred. Not a crazy thought considering it is the kitchen FROM HELL.
When my bank account regenerates one day, I'll probably be back.
Have mercy on all your wretched souls, and hope you enjoy this place as much as we did!
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