I've been to Dominick's twice now. As Charles Dickens wrote in "A Tale of Two Cities", "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times."
My first visit I dined at a nice table upstairs by the pool. That meal was fantastic and my experience was similar to Marsella M's epic review which will surely be a ROTD in the near future.
This recent visit was upsetting. Dining alone at the bar I ordered a glass of wine, a filet mignon and a side of creamed spinach. Before my food order was rung in the bartender asked for my credit card. "Are you sure?" I asked. Yes, he said, it's management's policy. I challenged him and told him it's always at the server's discretion. Grudgingly, I handed over my card.
The food itself was very good but I had a very bitter taste in my mouth from the credit card debacle. Two prominent food writers I know were sitting at the corner of the bar. I asked if they were asked for their credit card when they ordered their food and wine and they said no. They were both aghast when I told them about my experience.
After paying my bill and leaving a 20% tip, despite my tremendous dissatisfaction, I asked to speak to the manager. I was told that it was company policy to ask for a credit card. When I informed him that my friends weren't asked for theirs he told me that when I come back they'll treat me like a regular and won't ask for my card.
Come back again? Are you kidding me? Next time I want a steak I'll go to Eddie V's where they know me by name.