Let start this by admitting that I truly hate Guy Fieri and all that he represents. I hate his douchey hair style, his frenetic cooking style and the fact that he has an audience on FoodNetwork and at Fridays. Honestly I wouldn't have ever wanted to go if my mom hadn't wanted to try it, and that being said I am glad that I gave it a shot.
That being said...this place was far and away better than his competition -- TGIFridays, Bennigans, Applebee's and the like. The menu is varied and interesting for a place like this and the service was great. I had Sarah, a very energetic, but not annoying, and spent just enough time away to not notice her, which is always the sign of a good server.
This location was small but not overwhelming, had a full bar, a few TVs and an outdoor eating section with warmers abound.
Ok to the meal;
A french onion soup which was surprisingly good. The onions tasted as if they had been simmered for hours with a broth that was thick but not goopy. the cheese was just thick enough to add something without being overpowering.
Center cut choice top sirloin grilled and topped with zinfandel shallot butter and our crispy Maui onions. I took a chance but hell, they had a nice grill going and it came out great. The meat was nearly the size of my face and tender as all hell. The vegetables still had some resistance in them and the garlic mashed potatoes were what you'd expect form a place named Johnny Garlic's.
So if you are in Santa Rosa and want something in the Friday's ilk but don't want to deal with the older set, give it a shot. Don't expect something magical, but know that this is better than the rest in this type of eating.
Pros: Surprisingly good food
Cons: Guy Fieri
more