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| - The Garage is yet another central Phoenix building reuse success story.
Much like it's neighbor, The Vig Uptown, this outstanding venue had a drastically different former life, in this case a tanning salon.
OK, actually it was a Garage, and I know this not only because of my amazing powers of deduction, but because my parents actually brought their cars here when I was a kid. I have never had the experience of having dinner and drinks at a place that I was last at when there was oil & grease on the floor, and guys in blue overalls running around.
I've had the opportunity to visit The Garage twice so far, once on a Friday for dinner, and once on a Friday for lunch. A great friend of mine lives right down the street, and he has been telling me that we needed to hit up The Garage.
On my first visit, it was very busy so we grabbed a beer and loitered until our table was ready. The service was quick and friendly, the bartender was attentive. We each got a draft beer of something, it was pretty good, but the glass wasn't frozen. (Perhaps it was cold, but after being spoiled by The Roosevelt and their iceberg cold pint glasses, it was a noticeable difference)
Ambiance wise, The Garage is beautiful. I would have never imagined you could take a working mechanics garage and convert it into an upscale sleek neighborhood bar and grill. Unlike corporate ventures, The Garage keeps is simple, and clutter free. That's not to say there isn't character and charm, because the place is really impressive, it's just not overdone. One of the things that will catch your eye is the super cool huge propeller that occupies the East wall of The Garage. In addition, there are little mechanic related items scattered around the restaurant which pay homage to the building's former life. Seating is comfortable and plentiful, and The Garage gets massive points for creating a comfortable seating plan without placing too many tables and cramming people in (Ruth's Chris anyone?).
Our table came ready and we were seated and greeted by a server named Casey. Casey was friendly and knowledgeable and made some helpful recommendations. We each ordered a burger, and they offer several different sides, but being a simple guy, I went with waffle fries.
The food arrived a short time later, and the burger was truly outstanding. Casey came back around to check us, and he was clearly pleased that we enjoyed the food. It really is a cool thing when employees take pride in what they do, and where they work, and The Garage is one of those places.
Apologies for the wordiness of this review, but it really is worthy of praise and attention. Great food meets wonderful service, with the added charm of a tremendous venue. Prices were good and the crowd seemed really nice, with an eclectic mix of patrons.
Great job Garage, I look forward to many visits, every three months, or 3,000 miles- which ever comes first- and unlike regular garages, I will trust you when you say "Try the deviled eggs" and won't think you're selling me a part that isn't broken, or I don't need.
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