We've been excited to visit Lola ever since Michael's rise to fame on Food TV. We had reservations for 3/8, the blizzard day, but canceled because we didn't think the weather was condusive to a great meal at an upscale place. As we wondered the E. 4th area at about 7pm, we found all other restaurants closed (Corner Alley), not seating anyone else (Flannary's, HOB) or just having the bar open (Zocalo). What goes around comes around and we were graciously welcomed at Lola as a walk-in. Attire was not an issue this night. Like us, others went to the Cavs game earlier and had t-shirts on.\r
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Sure, it's not an inexpensive dining experience. The menu is also limited as you'd expect at an upscale place. The protions were decent sized but not overwhelming as I'd heard before. The drinks were good and strong although the wife's two cosmo's each looked and tasted completely different. My Grey Goose Martini's (w/blue cheese olives) rocked. I forgot what we had for desert (I told you the drinks rocked) but it was chocolate and it was very good. So if that's where it all ended, I'd say it was a very good dining experience. I would go again.\r
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The highlight for us though was Michael. First, you can hear his recognizable laugh across the room. You didn't have to look to know he was there. He also came to our table and had a very nice, genuine conversation with us. He's a busy guy so for him to take a few minutes and talk to his patrons went a long way for me. We've been to other Iron Chef's restaurants in NYC and they were nowhere to be found. You could tell Michael wasn't just going through the motions. He was very sincere and very appreciative of us being there. It made for a special dining experience.
Pros: Michael's presence, casual feeling ambiance but upscale food
Cons: Prices, portion size
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