I’ve heard and read about people slamming the service and prices here, but when my girlfriend and I went for my birthday lunch there recently, I’ve got to tell you that we were really impressed. First of all, the lay out and decor is really cool. It’s a spacious restaurant with a welcoming, Old World sort of main dining room with ceramic pitchers on the tables and blue and yellow accents. It has two wooden bars with fun high backed booth seats, an indoor fireplace, private lounge with leather chairs and pretty tapestries, a small private courtyard and a large, open patio with heat lamps. There are so many seating configurations to choose from. It’s a very inviting place with a bed and breakfast type of feel.
I was a little concerned to find that it is located across the street from the Cal Train station in Menlo Park – the potential noise factor – but we had a relaxed, enjoyable meal and didn’t notice the trains going by.
We arrived at noon and were the only people there, so we had the entire place to ourselves. As a result, service was dedicated and attentive. My girlfriend and I sat in the main dining room and she sipped on sangria (I took a taste – it was delicious and strong! – and I had a lovely glass of wine while we waited for our food.
Our waitress mentioned that they do a lot of special events. In fact, that weekend, they were closing for a private party of about 125 people. I imagine that this would be the perfect setting for wedding parties and festive business events.
We enjoyed our food, as you’ll see below. I can’t wait to go back and hang out with friends on their patio when the weather gets warmer. I think the ambiance and food are worth the price. The only thing to be forewarned about is that they automatically include 19% gratuity, even for a party of 2 – that was surprising, and I would prefer to have the opportunity to leave a generous tip at my own discretion.
oishiidesuka
05/31/2009A feel-good call to savor tasty tapas, sip deliciously strong sangrias, relax and simply enjoy.