Sometimes the hype around a restaurant kills the actual experience of being there. This is probably true of Garde Manger. Food was fine but the experience did not meet the raving reviews that I had heard.
We made a reservation in advance but ended up in a corner booth which was not comfortable. The idea of not having a menu bothered some of the folks in the group but I was cool with the idea of reading off the black board.
Service : Our waitress was phenomenal! She was efficient, funny and kept the conversation going as we placed our orders. Definitely a highlight!
Food : We tried a lot of appetizers - portions were small which led us to order more. For an entree, I tried the pork tenderloin with jalapeno grits which was the only dish i really liked. The rest of our group tried their different offerings - seafood, steak. Food tasted good but the overall experience did not live up to the expectations.
Ambience : For a fine dining restaurant, our table for 5 was too cramped and we did not enjoy it. The restaurant is highly sought after and is crowded at all times. Its not easy to find the restaurant since they do not have a sign upfront. Its an unassuming door and just follow your GPS.
Pricing : Expensive. Don't mind paying the price as long as there is value in the experience.
Will I return? : Maybe, to entertain.