I read the reviews and heard numerous opinions, so my expectations were perhaps too high when I stepped into Carlos Bistro. Rumors of this previously being a biker bar are easy to understand when you drive up to this restaurant. There isn't a whole lot to it. At least, on the outside. A LOT of effort has gone into dressing up the inside, but the architecture is pretty rigid and does not lend itself much to such efforts. The flow of the layout and the table settings are awkward. The service is commendable. They do try. Sometimes this seems very genuine. Other times, it comes across as though the servers have been doing this for so long, it has become automatic and you feel like you are ordering at a drive-thru. Carlos has quite the flair and does bring a festive air and personal touch to the meal. It's a shame, some of his staff can't apply that first-hand lesson to their own service. The kitchen is quite accomodating to requests. An entree was made an appetizer without batting an eye and THANK GOODNESS. The evening's special lobster salad was one of the most divine things I have ever had. It was impeccably executed and beautifully plated. Traditional dishes are sometimes given twists (like Pan-Asian approaches) and new flavors are introduced. Though, some dishes are the same dishes you find at other high-end restaurants. They taste good, but are easily forgettable. The experience is a little on the pricey side, but you may want to splurge for that special occasion. It isn't quite the whole package, though. At least, not for large groups. Maybe for a more intimate evening. If you are looking for something interesting, flavorful, and fun...try the lobster salad.
Pros: Carlos himself, accomodating kitchen, the lobster salad
Cons: A box is still a box and I felt like I was stuck in one the whole evening
more