'Meh. I've experienced better' is extremely accurate to describe 17th street café.
Pros:
Al Fresco dining during the Spring/Summer
Fairly friendly service
Cons:
Overpriced (particularly for the portions served)
Below-average food (can only speak for the chicken dishes; overcooked, dry, etc)
SLLOOWWWWW service - despite 3 servers and maybe a 12 tables at best
My last visit I waited 10 minutes outside without being acknowledged whatsoever before giving up and seating myself inside. The time before that, so much time had elapsed since we finished our meals before being offered dessert I stopped counting at 15 minutes if I recall. At that point I just wanted to get out of there. Food comes out fairly quickly, but getting it ordered in the first place and/or paying for it have proven repeatedly to be challenges.
Also, be aware if you are going to use a Groupon there is an unwritten rule that you must purchase two ENTREES. Also, a sald - regardless if you add chicken, shrimp, etc - does NOT count as an entrée. Despite the fact you could easily exceed the total of two entrees by ordering an appetizer, salad, and one entrée - they won't do it. Odd. Particularly since this was not mentioned beforehand.
I don't see myself going back.