Yep, James Place is a blend of "Meh" and "A-OK" - a 2.5 if you will.
As somebody who typically is a sucker for the classic or (even better) unexpected wine bar. . .well, James Place falls somewhere between predictable and average.
The service is complacent and ambivalent - do they have a Happy Hour or don't they? Well, depending on who your server is, you'll get a different answer. Nevermind that their website advertises $6 glasses of wine, $7 martinis, as well as a bottle of wine + pizza combo for only $25 until 7pm - you'll have to point this information out (assertively) if you wish to receive.
It's in my nature to look for a silver lining, so in James Place's case. . .I'll give their patio some credit - private and peaceful.
I must also admit, after requesting the white pizza to be extra garlic-y (that was part of the Happy Hour special, umm, once I asked about it), I was fairly impressed.
Since I happen to live and work nearby James Place, I may continue to stop by from time to time - however, there needs to be some improvements made (especially to their waitstaff) before I ever become a regular.