Being a self-proclaimed ""foodie"" - I'd just like to share my experience(s) at The Grove. I'm a home-chef and I like to drink - The Grove works out nicely for me as the food is top-notch and they have an excellent selection of wine as well as knowledgeable employees (notably the manager - himself being a wine expert). I was there day one for opening and I continue to return for the various dishes they whip up. Knowing that the place was started by Reed Clemens of Reed's Jazz and Supper club - I knew the food would rock right from the start. The outdoor patio is very pleasant even when the weather isn't. I agree - the wait is a bit much sometimes but if you don't like it - either deal with it or GO SOMEWHERE ELSE. To me, good service and food comes with a wait - all chef's and patrons know this - if you don't - stay home.\r
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I highly recommend stopping by and having some bruschetta or stick around for dinner if you can. Try a flight. It's worth it. The Spaghetti Bolognese is excellent as well as the bow-tie pasta. Sometimes they offer something special for dinner - always excellent in my own opinion - especially New Years night - I had Reed's special which was Jalape?o Cheese Grits, Sliced Sirloin topped off with fresh steamed Vegatables. \r
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One thing I'd like to address - The current crop of reviews - Writing a review and describing your ""horrible evening"" because you had to wait 20 minutes? 18 people? Are you stupid? were flat out rude about the whole process - then recommending another restaurant and boasting about it? That's not a review. Sorry you're not patient - Sorry you happen to endorse a competing restaurant that throws shameless plugs at the new place in town. Shame on you.\r
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For me - I'll continue to dine at The Grove - hey, I like it there - I feel like family.\r
There's a lot to say about The Grove - non being bad - if anything - a nice new addition to the incredible Austin cuisine fusing many elements of food forming a delicious nirvana in my mouth.
Pros: Great Wine selection / Friendly service / Tasty food
Cons: Sometimes there's a wait
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