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| - I'm torn on my rating for the new El Chorro Lodge. I had visited the "old" El Chorro Lodge prior to the renovations, and enjoyed it (although I found the bar area seriously lacking). But last weekend was my first trip to the upgraded version, and it was a mixed bag. First of all, let me say that if I were rating on ambience alone, this place would get a solid 5 stars. Their patio area is extensive, and there are so many cozy nooks with semi-private fireplaces scattered around that it's easy to find a quiet corner to relax in with your special someone. The bar area has been increadibly re-done, and is beautiful! My friend and I sat at the bar, and were entertained by the live band playing just a few steps away.
Now the downside. The bartender that helped us (there were at least three behind the bar) was just ok. He was very friendly, and very enthusiastic, but didn't seem very knowledgeable. We asked him for drink specials, and were told there were none. We asked for drink recommendations, and he had none. We asked if they offered specialty martini's, and were told..."um....we have the El Chorro Martini"....finally we asked for the drink menu, and found that there actually were a BUNCH of different specialty cocktails and martinis that all looked appealing.
I ordered a beer (I know, I know, after all that....but it sounded delicious), and my friend ordered one of the specialty martinis with basil. After 5 minutes I got my beer. After 10 minutes, still no cocktail for my friend. We mentioned it to another bartender, who told us that he'd pass it along. Then our bartender came back and began to make the drink....slowly....Finally, when it looked like it was ready to be presented, our bartended said "oh....I need to make you a new one. The basil I used is still dirty"......and the process began again.
Once the drink was received, it tasted great and we enjoyed the rest of our evening. I guess I'm going to give four stars as an average for the 5 star ambience and 3 star service received. But I will definitely be going back soon.
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