We had a lot of fun at this newly opened place.... a party of five including men, a woman of a certain age, and young women too ... some vegetarian, some pasta fanatics, some no-carb, some South Beach AND in spite of the diversity, everyone found more than several things that they'd love to eat.
We tried only two appetizers concerned we'd be too full for the dinner -- lamb crepes and the tacos -- both really exquisite. Dinners included: flat iron steak (seriously enjoyed by a serious meat guy), grilled cheese with tomato soup (lovely), shells & cheese (their title for a glorious four-cheese, Asiago and all that good stuff, mac n cheese), the salmon entree (gorgeous and cooked perfectly), and ...
... another carnivore eating a sirloin steak.
That was me, so I can tell you double wow. Once for the first time I tasted it and then again for when I reheated it the next day -- to me the true test of quality food !!!
To me the menu seems like one where even in a large party, everybody could find something they liked.
The wine list was really nice and the salmon-eating guy had his fair share of just the house red and liked it a lot -- and he knows the grape!
The martinis were very fun... I wanted to try them since another review had mentioned them... I had the cucumber -- delish. I can imagine on a hot day, nothing lovelier!
We shared two desserts -- ginger cake with apple compote and creme fraiche and a key lime tart... but a biggish tart!
One more thing... I know that cost is cost, but I sincerely felt very good about the final bill and the cost of a rather lavish evening.... I believe we got value beyond what one may be likely to spend elsewhere, and without similar resulting value.
It was a really fun evening. I loved the crowd in the room -- women together and out for the evening; old folks, young folks, babies...
I understand that the Upper West will soon open for lunch and also weekend brunch. I cannot wait!
We all had a lot of fun and wish this restaurant the very best luck -- success already has been reached.
Pros: the food and the service
Cons: could not name one
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