Walking into Houlihan's in Westlake is pretty exciting. The decor and atmosphere reminds me of something out of Mad Men. You can almost see Don Draper and Roger Sterling having a drink and enjoying a steak in the dimly lit but warm confines. I have lived in Lakewood for nearly 5 years and yet I completely forgot this place was just down the road. I won't forget that again.
Aside from the classic and elegant decor, the food was very good, the menu broad and eclectic and the service friendly and attentive.
I had the New Orleans Jambalaya. It was hearty, well seasoned and came with 5-6 large shrimp sitting on top of the dish. My wife ordered the Stuffed Chicken Breast and had no complaints. She ordered the Asparagus instead of the Green Beans. The waiter accidentally brought green beans, but it was an honest mistake as it is quite dark inside and I think he saw the green color and assumed. Within 2 minutes the mistake was corrected and hey, free green beans.
Not an everyday kind of place based in the pricing, $17.95 for Jambalaya, but the quality, ambiance and service make this a place worth spending a little more.
The menu is pretty vast and I am excited to back as soon as possible to try a few more dishes. I might have to order an Old Fashioned, Mr. Draper would approve.