Everyone who lives in this area or has driven by it knows that this location is practically cursed. Every restaurant that has gone there has failed, and having been to several of them, I am not surprised why. I think this is the first place that has a real shot at being successful.
My boyfriend and I decided to try it since we live right down the street. They were lacking in a few places having just opened. The decor was all over the place, and they could use a few drapes and new upholstery on the furniture, but they clearly prioritized getting things right in all the right places. Bottom line: Great service and great food. I feel all their issues were mainly aesthetic.
We were immediately greeted by a friendly hostess who sat us at a booth, which made it feel like we were eating at real restaurant for the first time at that location (past establishments had failed at this minor detail from the get go).
A server came by and read us a few specials. She was very friendly and patient, as I wanted to try everything on the menu and couldn't decide what to order. I started out with their special for the day, the red sangria. Delish! Their menu listed open faced sandwiches, wraps, pastas, burgers, and entrées, all of which looked carefully crafted and unique to this restaurant. I eventually decided on the Casablanca Bogart Burger, which was deliciously complimented with goat cheese, a spicy sauce I can't quite remember the name of, and ratatouille. I would have taken a picture, but I dug into the burger so fast I'd forgotten to. It was beautifully presented and looked so good I couldn't wait. The boyfriend ordered just the club sandwich which was equally tasty. We finished off with the creme brûlée for dessert... And from then I swore I'd be back!
I don't really even Yelp that often, but this place is definitely worth it. It's only been a day but I have been telling all my friends and now I'm Yelping to try and keep this place alive. See ya at Bernard's! :)