"2"^^ . . . "2"^^ . "2013-03-14T00:00:00"^^ . "well....had wanted to come here for a long time and finally made it in. Called ahead for a reservation for two, at 6 o'clock. The hostess suggested we do so just to be sure...turns out we would've been okay but, I can see why...this place is popular!\n\nService and seating were prompt. Our waiter was friendly and attentive. We sat at the large bay doors overlooking Lake Monona. We opted for a light dinner - shared a plate (very LARGE plate) of mussels and the lobster rolls....these were devoured quite greedily....\n\nWe also ordered the beef tip to share as a main course. The kitchen staff very thoughtfully delivered it as two separate portions - very nicely presented each on their own plate....as opposed to giving us two plates and making us divide it ourselves....classy! The beef was so tender and well prepared...just...wow!\n\nNormally, I'd make them wait for a 5-star review...prove they can deliver... This was just such a pleasant experience with delicious food and good service...I'll be a softy :P\n\nHint: the large bay doors by the lake can be chilly\nHint hint: the \"happy hour\" specials for Oysters are ONLY at the bar...\nHint hint hint: Arrive before six if you want any hope of parking in their lot...otherwise plan on street parking and walking....\nHint hint hint hint: The restoration of the old building is VERY nicely done. A lot of neat exposed architecture to look at. The one downside is the massive HVAC system...it is actually a bit loud if you sit under one of the large vents.\n\ndare I? a new record? a quintuple hint extravaganza?\n\nheck yeah!\n\nhint^5: this place is worth a trip when you have a little time to spare...lots of cool things to check out just wandering around the restaurant and the restored building, old photos, old mechanical equipment, groovy brick work, and cool light fixtures....lots of things to see and explore!"^^ . "1"^^ . "5"^^ . .