L'Albatros is nothing short of a religious experience. I would give serious thought to becoming a nun if this was the church I would be serving.
Just came back from a long luxurious lunch and lets just say that after that, I won't be able to get anything done today. I'm too busy writhing around in my own food ecstasy. Every time I come to L'Albatros, I am not only blown away by the exquisite food, but also but the amazing service. You can go to Greenhouse or any of the other puffed up restaurants in Cleveland, pay more for your food, and not get the same amazing experience. My husband and I went for our anniversary last month and he ordered an absinthe. The server was well versed in the absinthes they carry and the effect they have and he didn't just get a drink in a glass, he got a whole song and dance. I was so impressed by the extent they go to showcase their amazing fare. All of the servers take such pride in their job and what they carry that it is nearly impossible not to get excited about it.
My recommendations:
The Cassoulet: I literally could not finish the story I was telling after I took my first bite
The Hanger Steak: Cooked to perfection and bathed in bernaise sauce
The Frisee salad with poached egg and lardons: BEST salad I've ever eaten.
Any of the cheese selections: One of the top cheese plates in the country (its not just me who says that! Important people do too!) and they have such a passion for cheese that once they found out I loved it too, they took me and my friend through the kitchen and into the freezer to sample an extremely rare Roquefort just to be able to share the experience. I will never forget that.
The Lavender Lady: My favorite drink in the world.
If you have rated L'Albatros with anything less than 5 stars, I strongly encourage you to try it again!