-
Notifications
You must be signed in to change notification settings - Fork 0
/
fall-seafood.json
782 lines (782 loc) · 671 KB
/
fall-seafood.json
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
53
54
55
56
57
58
59
60
61
62
63
64
65
66
67
68
69
70
71
72
73
74
75
76
77
78
79
80
81
82
83
84
85
86
87
88
89
90
91
92
93
94
95
96
97
98
99
100
101
102
103
104
105
106
107
108
109
110
111
112
113
114
115
116
117
118
119
120
121
122
123
124
125
126
127
128
129
130
131
132
133
134
135
136
137
138
139
140
141
142
143
144
145
146
147
148
149
150
151
152
153
154
155
156
157
158
159
160
161
162
163
164
165
166
167
168
169
170
171
172
173
174
175
176
177
178
179
180
181
182
183
184
185
186
187
188
189
190
191
192
193
194
195
196
197
198
199
200
201
202
203
204
205
206
207
208
209
210
211
212
213
214
215
216
217
218
219
220
221
222
223
224
225
226
227
228
229
230
231
232
233
234
235
236
237
238
239
240
241
242
243
244
245
246
247
248
249
250
251
252
253
254
255
256
257
258
259
260
261
262
263
264
265
266
267
268
269
270
271
272
273
274
275
276
277
278
279
280
281
282
283
284
285
286
287
288
289
290
291
292
293
294
295
296
297
298
299
300
301
302
303
304
305
306
307
308
309
310
311
312
313
314
315
316
317
318
319
320
321
322
323
324
325
326
327
328
329
330
331
332
333
334
335
336
337
338
339
340
341
342
343
344
345
346
347
348
349
350
351
352
353
354
355
356
357
358
359
360
361
362
363
364
365
366
367
368
369
370
371
372
373
374
375
376
377
378
379
380
381
382
383
384
385
386
387
388
389
390
391
392
393
394
395
396
397
398
399
400
401
402
403
404
405
406
407
408
409
410
411
412
413
414
415
416
417
418
419
420
421
422
423
424
425
426
427
428
429
430
431
432
433
434
435
436
437
438
439
440
441
442
443
444
445
446
447
448
449
450
451
452
453
454
455
456
457
458
459
460
461
462
463
464
465
466
467
468
469
470
471
472
473
474
475
476
477
478
479
480
481
482
483
484
485
486
487
488
489
490
491
492
493
494
495
496
497
498
499
500
501
502
503
504
505
506
507
508
509
510
511
512
513
514
515
516
517
518
519
520
521
522
523
524
525
526
527
528
529
530
531
532
533
534
535
536
537
538
539
540
541
542
543
544
545
546
547
548
549
550
551
552
553
554
555
556
557
558
559
560
561
562
563
564
565
566
567
568
569
570
571
572
573
574
575
576
577
578
579
580
581
582
583
584
585
586
587
588
589
590
591
592
593
594
595
596
597
598
599
600
601
602
603
604
605
606
607
608
609
610
611
612
613
614
615
616
617
618
619
620
621
622
623
624
625
626
627
628
629
630
631
632
633
634
635
636
637
638
639
640
641
642
643
644
645
646
647
648
649
650
651
652
653
654
655
656
657
658
659
660
661
662
663
664
665
666
667
668
669
670
671
672
673
674
675
676
677
678
679
680
681
682
683
684
685
686
687
688
689
690
691
692
693
694
695
696
697
698
699
700
701
702
703
704
705
706
707
708
709
710
711
712
713
714
715
716
717
718
719
720
721
722
723
724
725
726
727
728
729
730
731
732
733
734
735
736
737
738
739
740
741
742
743
744
745
746
747
748
749
750
751
752
753
754
755
756
757
758
759
760
761
762
763
764
765
766
767
768
769
770
771
772
773
774
775
776
777
778
779
780
781
782
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "IsvVRsknHBi0AZXmOjJqIA", "review_id": "oaLJ7IgPiyNKEvYRw8cD-A", "text": "An excellent choice for fresh, well prepared seafood located in the Waterfront area in Homestead. I frequent this area for business travel, and you can't do much better without heading downtown.\n\nThe seafood is excellent, with a daily menu crammed full of fresh fish specials, a raw bar, and a list of chef's specialties. The house salad is sweet and delicious, and the 'shanghai' seafood preparation is delicious, healthy, and unique. Try it with the scallops or a white-fleshed fish.\n\nThere is a nice selection of regional beers on tap, a decent selections of wines, and creative drinks (think elderflower and pear martinis). The deserts are adequate, though not a highlight. \n\nIf you're on the Waterfront, you won't do better than this. Enjoy!", "business_id": "usSROUMiAgPcxV3Ym0OxMQ", "stars": 4, "date": "2009-09-28", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "bvu13GyOUwhEjPum2xjiqQ", "review_id": "alkfQimcqAxL2_L1QMkOUg", "text": "I took my cousin from California here for lunch. We were both eating lite since a) I was dieting and b) my family was having dinner at my mother's house and she was slaving over lasagna all day, so if anyone knows anything about Italian mother's, you better arrive hungry. Back to mitchell's, I had the iceberg wedge with bacon, egg, tomatoes and a delicious home made blue cheese dressing. I also ordered a bowl of seafood gumbo which was the best gumbo I ever tasted. It wasn't overly packed with rice, as a matter of fact, there wasn't much rice at all. It was mostly shredded crab, scallops, and shrimp with a very delicate broth that wasn't too thick and the heat snuck up on you after swallowing. It wasn't a lot of heat, just enough to make it exciting. As for the iceberg wedge salad, every once in awhile I need a piece of iceberg instead of a bowl of spring mix (ie: tender weeds). The star of this salad was the chef made blue cheese dressing. It was not overly thick, very tasty and savory. It complimented the bacon and egg on the wedge. The cousin ordered the carrot cake for dessert and it was easily a pound slice. I tasted a little bite and must say it's the best carrot cake I've ever tasted. The cream cheese frosting was more buttery than \"cheesy\", it was a great surprise when you're expecting the normal cream cheese frosting. There were whole walnuts throughout the cake and many raisins, which I love. Also this recipe seems to rely on more cinnamon than I've tasted in the past. I highly recommend it. It was a wonderful lunch and I'm sure she had carrot cake to take on the plane ride back to Riverside.", "business_id": "usSROUMiAgPcxV3Ym0OxMQ", "stars": 4, "date": "2010-09-16", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "aX4Mqd3w6xz7LNlK1LQWMw", "review_id": "K2VJh6XUl0Rng8nv4qPxKw", "text": "This place has great seafood. The best in the area. I come here for seafood every time. Everything on their menu is good. Their menu changes all the time depending on what was in season. Appetizers are amazing like the raw oysters. Their clam chowder is the best. Really creamy with lots of clams. Wonderful restaurant. You cannot go wrong with anything on the menu. We love coming to this restaurant. Don't forget a reservation on weekends. You will not get a table and will probably wait an hour or two if you don't have one. We never get to the dessert. Always too full to eat dessert. Forgot to take pictures.", "business_id": "usSROUMiAgPcxV3Ym0OxMQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2010-10-10", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "tn0EqWiKmv_wogIQvarX4A", "review_id": "yCCd8xFCjZXTiWMvtvPEMg", "text": "Got lunch from here today. \n\nWhat I sampled: \nMaine Lobster Bisque (delicious and the whole reason for getting lunch from here)\nCheeseburger (decent version I only ate about half, but I expect the other half won't last long)\n\nOverall I enjoy going here, though it is a bit overpriced, but sometimes I am just in the mood for that lobster bisque!", "business_id": "usSROUMiAgPcxV3Ym0OxMQ", "stars": 3, "date": "2011-10-13", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "akfGUGSBBcNliMHX-fPZww", "review_id": "7JtdMvf3Y5Y7fidChD0LEw", "text": "Good food and service, but our party was skipped over or crossed off the waiting list. After an hour we went up to find that there were three tables open. The manager very blatantly lied to us stating that they had just opened up and just been cleaned. Food was good but not worth the hassle and wait. There are better or cheaper places to eat in Pittsburgh.", "business_id": "usSROUMiAgPcxV3Ym0OxMQ", "stars": 2, "date": "2011-11-03", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "KaSON_u273TC7KAD_NyDHQ", "review_id": "iOzdqEz7cN_qvKjn2nRdKg", "text": "Service an atmosphere was great. I had the shrimp boil and it was very under-seasoned. Much closer to bland than anything.", "business_id": "usSROUMiAgPcxV3Ym0OxMQ", "stars": 2, "date": "2012-09-01", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 2, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "hyXSC01j_V42hhzbp-jl2A", "review_id": "nBaALLC57-XU-88xWg4tmw", "text": "I'm not a mean reviewer, if you look at the other places I've reviewed, but this was just so so so disappointing. The Shanghai style Merlin was very poorly done. The meat was extremely bland, with very little seasoning. I have a very low sodium tolerance and yet I still found this fish to be made too bland. The rice was entirely uncooked and it made crunching sounds as I took my first bite. I talked to the waitress and she offered to bring out another side. It wasn't the same. The whole dish was a fail and I don't think I am ever coming back again :(", "business_id": "usSROUMiAgPcxV3Ym0OxMQ", "stars": 1, "date": "2012-09-10", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "BJ980LZ3UOOf-D2KXAJuaA", "review_id": "k0TIIMmTC2-W2rCAgNCEtg", "text": "I went here on a recent business trip, and there aren't many decent options in West Homestead, so I decided to splurge on the company's dollar and ordered take-out. \n\nI was highly disappointed in the service, and I only ordered take out. Upon going to the bar to announce that I was there for take out, there were 3 other people at the bar. The bartender had her back to me and it wasn't until a few minutes had passed that another guest told her that she should wait on me. \n\nAfter announcing the reason for my visit, she checks on my order (not ready yet) and helps other tables. No offer of water, or a drink. Another gentleman working the bar asked the bartender if she had offered me a drink, she stated to him my order would be right up. He then asked if she offered me a water, to which she replied, her order is going to be right up. He placed a glass of water in front of me.\n\nThen I hear my name and order announced by the kitchen staff. 3 staff members yelled. . .\"it's TAKEOUT\" so back it went into the kitchen to be packed up.\n\nGentelman bartender asks female bartender if she has rung me up yet (she had not)\n\nAfter more time had passed (how long does it take to put food into a takeout container?) it finally is put down in front of me. She then rings me up. I don't expect take out to be piping hot, but at this point i wondered if it was even going to be room.\n\nWhen i go to eat my meal, utensils were not included. I now had to go find something to eat my lukewarm food with. \n\nVERY DISAPPOINTING experience. Will not be returning.", "business_id": "usSROUMiAgPcxV3Ym0OxMQ", "stars": 2, "date": "2012-10-31", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "DwXVdLxCHp9Uag-HjWgcnQ", "review_id": "lK81ZrGDCbk3EsEfwT6Khw", "text": "We had a bigger party and I think that might have flustered the waitresses just a bit. They forgot about our waters until the food came out, but were super apologetic when they did bring them. The food was ok. I ordered the crab cakes they were a bit heavy on the breading, so I would give them a rating of, \"eh\". My friend ordered a steak, asked for medium rare, and it came out...well done. He was too hungry to complain and just ate it. We might go back again, and this time maybe take a bit more time looking over the menu.", "business_id": "usSROUMiAgPcxV3Ym0OxMQ", "stars": 3, "date": "2013-09-17", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "ozru1YnC8dmgWYiORmHRlA", "review_id": "3yf6LpIsWu4jZTliH2jpsg", "text": "I went to this restaurant last week with my husband and my family. The restaurant is located on the Waterfront area. The variety of fish was excellent, including the fresh fish of the day. I ordered the atlantic cod and it was delicious.\nThe waitress' service was really good. \nI definitely recommend this restaurante.", "business_id": "usSROUMiAgPcxV3Ym0OxMQ", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-10-03", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "7sBqJpb4N8U76vTE0PFfKA", "review_id": "hAzFONfDtCUtImid5SG_vQ", "text": "Excellent fresh seafood. Good vegetables. Good service. Best place to eat on Waterfront.", "business_id": "usSROUMiAgPcxV3Ym0OxMQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-11-05", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "JPPhyFE-UE453zA6K0TVgw", "review_id": "8FsgQiHQQ8-ypVo6v7IMbw", "text": "Top points. \nService. I was there with a large group for a meeting. They gave us a private room and two servers took care of us. They were efficient and very accommodating. Kudos. \n\nAppetizers: had the crab dip and calamari. Both were good. Servers brought extra chips with the dip as they were needed. I'm always surprised that more chips are not just added to the original dish at this point. Dip was good. Calamari was done well. Preferred the shrimp cocktail Sauce with it versus the Asian type soy sauce that is served with it. \n\nWedge salad with bleu cheese. Waaaaaay too much cheese and I like bleu cheese. \n\nI had the blackened tuna with mashed potatoes and seasonal veggies. Carrots were carrot sticks hardly cooked and dry! Green beans overdone and broccoli had seen better days. Simple green beans would have been more appetizing. \nTuna had blackening spices but needed a better sear on it. Was not over cooked. Potatoes as expected. \nOther dishes seen--fisherman's platter. Looked a little greasy, but that's expected from me in a full fried dish. Would be nice if this was offered broiled as well. Crab cakes and filet looked okay. \n\nOverall I'm always underwhelmed and overcharged here. I guess with chain places you get that, but I want more from a place that charges me 25 bucks for sub-seared tuna.", "business_id": "usSROUMiAgPcxV3Ym0OxMQ", "stars": 3, "date": "2014-11-22", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "Pc2ezRRHcXUXWXmZutQPeg", "review_id": "rUOSd5Ojo6C2G9HyJjBmlQ", "text": "A OK!\n\nReally loved the bacon wrapped shrimp! So amazing with the sauce on the side. This was probably the the best part of the meal. \n\nI also had blacken salmon with a double order of spinach instead of a starch. The spinach was just steamed without any flavoring... Which is better in the long run, but I wish they had options for sauteed with garlic. \n\nThe service was great as well! We were always taken care of. \n\nWill definitely bring my bf here in the future.", "business_id": "usSROUMiAgPcxV3Ym0OxMQ", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-11-23", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 3, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "oc4Ne7SJo4WGdzbm6jtCXg", "review_id": "G8756cLQJUzvZaQdvLHvSQ", "text": "This was my first time at this location. I've frequented the Upper St Clair Galleria restaurant. There's a lot to like about this Columbus OH based chain. I don't usually eat at chain restaurants nor will I review them because they're typically big food corporate run places that don't care what they feed you they just care about their stockholders. This place seems different to me. The food quality and care seems to be very high. \n\nThe staff is always well trained. I like the decor and ambiance. The menu offers many options. I don't really like the fish preparation options very much and the portions can be small in some of the dishes but overall I am a fan. I do really appreciate being able to buy fresh fish here. I like to buy the trout and prepare it at home. \n\nWe were here for a Thanksgiving meet-up event with 69 other people. The room was a little small and it ended up being too loud too but the staff really pulled it off overall. It's a tough thing to do. It wasn't perfect for sure but the food was surprisingly good and came out hot and fresh. Nicely done.", "business_id": "usSROUMiAgPcxV3Ym0OxMQ", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-11-29", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "COt8DAiXb_uLfsM8NXOEKA", "review_id": "OHaZEd5WpCjsiAKHiB2Lug", "text": "We went here for Thanksgiving dinner; we had called ahead to check out vegan options, but the person on the other end was a little grumpy about the matter, but there's so little open on that day, there was little choice except to make sure I ate a big lunch earlier.\n\nI ordered the Thai salad, which is probably the only vegan item on the menu - really just a coleslaw with a peanut sauce and some funky chips. I also ordered some grilled vegetables. Both were good, but not amazing. \n\nThe beer selection was really bad (I mean, dive bar stuff), however the slightly pricey wine selection redeemed the place, and we had a great red and white. \n\nThe service too was pretty good, but I simply can't recommend going here due to the poor selection of vegan items.", "business_id": "usSROUMiAgPcxV3Ym0OxMQ", "stars": 3, "date": "2014-11-30", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "YWklaHZ09JatSsqhWw58QQ", "review_id": "0wfW2XJkKzmq1JCbg26wOw", "text": "Last night was my first visit to Mitchell's and I was really looking forward to some great seafood. I am sorry to say I did not get it. I ordered the crab stuffed shrimp and was disappointed. There were five very small shrimp on the plate. The shrimp were dry and overcooked. The crab stuffing was mostly stuffing. All I tasted was breading. I didn't see a piece of lump crab anywhere. The best part of the meal was the bread and butter. I was with a party of 12 people and I was surprised to see such small portions on the others plates. For the prices at this place, I had hoped for so much more. I will not go back.", "business_id": "usSROUMiAgPcxV3Ym0OxMQ", "stars": 2, "date": "2015-09-03", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 5, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "EZRwXVx7rypSLF6xhy57KQ", "review_id": "9avXrVwipaYLj1gDygePVQ", "text": "I have tried time and time again, to get myself to like this place and every time it's more disappointing than the last time. \n\nI had a take out order today, and when I called to place the order, I could tell that instantaneously, the bartender taking my order was not going to be a pleasure. Well that was an understatement. \n\nWhen I arrived to pick up my order, there was class A attitude from the minute I walked in with the bartender. Then I had a total of 5 bags and 2 fountain drinks (which she said she had absolutely nothing to put them in for me), and I asked her if she could help me carry the bags to my car. Her reply \"no. I have tables I need to take care of.\" \n\nI don't expect over-the-top service at this restaurant, but I do expect a smile, a nice and pleasant attitude, along with a little helpfulness. If you aren't having a good day, don't take it out on customers.", "business_id": "usSROUMiAgPcxV3Ym0OxMQ", "stars": 1, "date": "2015-09-03", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "7OTasS9rcawN6UaddgPwUg", "review_id": "kROCn_MGBdIQM6i2r2TBpA", "text": "They we're so accommodating for my daughter that doesn't like seafood. The food and service was very good.", "business_id": "usSROUMiAgPcxV3Ym0OxMQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-10-09", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "4AXdaTAyWCVd4MAFGMp2-A", "review_id": "14hc8uzTGZko-_T4kyziiw", "text": "I love eating in the beautiful river setting (though it is right by where the bloody Homestead Steel Strike took place in 1892). I would have given this place a higher rating based on past visits. But my most recent experience was not quite as good. The waitress spoke too fast, and gave me misinformation about what sides came with the plank of fish. She did offer to fix the mistake, but I let it go and traded sides with another person who was with me. I think broiled is better than the plank. I still will eat at Mitchell's at least once each time I visit Pittsburgh. The food is healthy, and I enjoy being there.", "business_id": "usSROUMiAgPcxV3Ym0OxMQ", "stars": 3, "date": "2015-10-18", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 3, "useful": 3, "cool": 3}, "user_id": "H4NhdCLWClmdNFe7ej7Njg", "review_id": "iL4BLAIXaIdvZrWZ9-eAvw", "text": "After doing some chores at The Waterfront, we were hungry and decided to try Mitchell's for dinner. We were seated at a comfortable red booth. The clam chowder was perfect; definitely get it. The mussels were delicious--not as firm as mussels usually are (but in a good way) and bigger than normal. The spicy crispy shrimp surprised me; I didn't think it would be good, but it was. Boyfriend said his lobster bisque was \"funky\" and I agreed that it tasted weird, but it was still edible. \n\nThe calamari, however, was unseasoned. Maybe they forgot to season it that night? I feel like the way it was served to us is not the way they usually serve it. Also, I was disappointed with the small portion of the calamari. For $12, we should be getting way more than we did. \n\nOur server was attentive and noticed that we liked a lot of their appetizers, so she informed us about their happy hour (Monday through Friday 4:30-6:30pm) where their appetizers are at most $7 each! Tempting, especially after our pleasant dinner experience.\n\nTaste | 4\nAtmosphere | 4\nPresentation | 3.5\nService | 4\nOVERALL | 4", "business_id": "usSROUMiAgPcxV3Ym0OxMQ", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-11-05", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "j2UOrL-m5tvtqKXV4-RkYw", "review_id": "TThdPHX0-Z4Yf6nRTFLTvg", "text": "This is a really hard review for me to write, simply because I cannot for the life of me find the words to explain the food. Lackluster, no, not really...Mediocre...no....Pedestrian/average/common...huh uh. Just 'eh.' It wasn't awful, terrible or even bad, and it wasn't great, good or even fine. It was just....edible, I guess. \nWe started with shrimp dumplings from the happy hour menu and the BF got seafood gumbo. I thought the gumbo was decent; he said 'eh', however we both agreed the dumplings were 'eh'. \nI got something called the market trio, which came with creole style rice, corn, a crab cake, a hunk of salmon and 5 shrimp. It wasn't terrible, inedible food, it was just....not good. And for $28 I wish I would have just gotten a bowl of the gumbo. The only thing that seemed to have any flavor was the rice. The BF got a crab and lobster stuffed cod, which again, was not bad just not good. It had a lemony-buttery sauce, that didn't taste quite lemony or buttery somehow. \nI know this is a stupid thing to gripe about, but I hatehatehate when restaurants charge necessarily high prices for pop. Soda, cola, pop, call it what you want, but it should never be more than $2.50. I usually just drink water with lemon, but I had a headache, so I ordered a coke. $325!! And having a BF who works for a restaurant, I know that pop costs them pennies! I see $2-2.50; some people drink glass after glass of the stuff, but $3.25 is simply ridiculous. Especially when the food kinda sucks. And I read other reviews and the decor is not classy. It's like it's trying to be classy, but real classy restaurants know its' not classy. It was a little like an over-priced, under-flavored Red Lobster without the kickass cheese biscuits. But when your food sucks at Red Lobster, you can always fill up on the delicious biscuits.", "business_id": "usSROUMiAgPcxV3Ym0OxMQ", "stars": 1, "date": "2015-11-10", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "ZIxqvG5qjkFN_gdj1VQJZA", "review_id": "o-tGqxntxed4ZhW9HpnHDg", "text": "So I've never been here before, I came with a friend and her aunt. The place is decorated really well, a little dim though. Even the bathroom is really really dim. Like I get the atmosphere you're trying to go for but I want to be able to see.\nI got the seafood stew and it was so good. The scallops were perfectly cooked and the flavor of the broth was fantastic. My shrimp were over cooked though, thus the four star review. They got everything right but that one thing kinda tainted it.\nI had the banana bread pudding for dessert and that was also very good. I've had a lot of bread pudding and this was one of the best. It was light but also dense and the flavor of the banana came through very clearly.\nOverall I had a very good experience! It would have been very great if it weren't for the over cooked shrimp. I'd definitely go back, but it is pretty pricey.", "business_id": "usSROUMiAgPcxV3Ym0OxMQ", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-11-18", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 5, "cool": 5}, "user_id": "fwsJGulnozT2U6FefsLiFw", "review_id": "QCt-uQ2wCsxyITe-O6BB-w", "text": "The best fish sandwiches in Pittsburgh! \n\nI found out about Miller's when a co worker suggested them for fish sandwiches during lent season. They are huge and freakin amazing!", "business_id": "YUZVBdGmagwXV-yOhR-1GQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2010-11-18", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 2, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "FTsJcaNeSQYcuXjIQA3RLQ", "review_id": "wp3JAGGbNweiVkl3v90oEg", "text": "I have eaten here twice. Both times I thought the food was sub-par. The first time was a birthday lunch that was lousy, but I was feeling under the weather, so I gave it another try about a year later for dinner. It was just as lousy as the lunch. My wife definitely agreed, and although we can walk there in 15 minutes, we will never eat there again.", "business_id": "YUZVBdGmagwXV-yOhR-1GQ", "stars": 2, "date": "2011-11-20", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 2, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "MQTZICkHRIDnmGPCRwPGBQ", "review_id": "nZT3fkuO_priupnPOJQSoQ", "text": "I don't really mind dive places because there are times that they have really good food. The place is dated and could use updating.\n\nThe waitress was good. I think she knew we weren't all that pleased with our food even though we told her it was good.\n\nThe food....my daughter-in-law had the shrimp scampi. We are pros at making our own at home, but when it was served, I told her that there are variations to it. Her first bite she made a sour face. My son and I then tasted it...understood the face after that. Way too much lemon juice in it, soaked in oil and not quite sure what the seasoning was, but seemed like pesto. The pasta was overcooked and the shrimp just sort of were there. \n\nMy son and I had the fried seafood platter. Aside from overcooked breading and soaked in grease, the oysters were raw, and the battered fish had no flavor. The breaded shrimp tasted weird too. Needless to say, none of us finished our food. Underneath the food, the plate had a puddle of grease. \n\nOn the upside, the coleslaw, bread, and crab cake was good. The make and cheese was edible, but seemed to comparable to Stauffer's.\n\nThis was our first, and more than likely, our last, visit. For a $65 dollar meal, it wasn't worth $10. .", "business_id": "YUZVBdGmagwXV-yOhR-1GQ", "stars": 2, "date": "2013-11-15", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "uiMTavYKLw9hxskV4xB2tg", "review_id": "3LW8kjfn_VIxp7eiMl9eUw", "text": "I agree with Peter. This is a very expensive fish restaurant and sushi bar. \n\nWas OK, but hard on the expense report ..", "business_id": "z4cCguoHdU48pj6sXMIzqg", "stars": 4, "date": "2007-09-08", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "EV4u-Ct9a0Yl7ecwAffccw", "review_id": "6P3Zx4fGxqdGzeXp7UVBow", "text": "Attached to the Westin Convention Center, this restaurant is a super convenient stop for convention goers. They're open until 1am, which is especially helpful for those of us West Coast travelers that spend all day flying to get to Pittsburgh.\n\nI enjoyed a nice big bowl of their clam chowder - creamy, not tomato based. Great flavors and large pieces of clam. The cesaer dressing on their salad was delicious and their sushi list was impressive.\n\nService was a touch slow, but not too bad considering the number of occupied tables. I'd say the food was good, but not outstanding. Definitely a convenient and tasty option.\n\nAlso stopped in at the bar one night for a few drinks. Drink prices weren't too bad, and they seemed to have a decent selection of choices. The bar is not particularly big, so seating is a little limited. But not a bad place to knock back a few after a long day of networking.", "business_id": "z4cCguoHdU48pj6sXMIzqg", "stars": 3, "date": "2008-11-22", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "AvoBoYTJmabovYMLm08b3g", "review_id": "MmnmH7pZPn0WLOvrbtYIew", "text": "For a place that has a $75 entree I was pretty shocked to see a $2 charge for blue cheese olives on my bill... pretty tacky. That was definitely a first. I was disappointed the waitress didn't say anything either. Aside from that the service was pretty good... and the sashimi was a great value. But everything else about this place is shwag. The seared tuna - garbage, rainbow roll and Caesar salad - weak, and the sides incredibly small. The place has the feel of a riverboat buffet. If this was stand alone they would only get away with charging 40% of what they are now... in the Westin.\nI would skip it, or if you have to, get sashimi at the bar and make sure you review your bill.", "business_id": "z4cCguoHdU48pj6sXMIzqg", "stars": 1, "date": "2009-11-11", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "X-9ImOSoJuThRarLMIrIQQ", "review_id": "eyFjQqXThBtc6JyZOj8QXg", "text": "OK, here I go again breaking my rule about hotel restaurants but this one is a treat. The atmosphere does reaks of cheezy hotel bar & food joint. However, in all things unassuming this one delivers great appetizers & sushi for the weary traveler. \n\nThe balsamic chile shimp appetizer is probably the best thing on the menu. As for soups, Lobster bisque is OK but can at times have the consitency of watered down paste. The gumbo is done well, but not the best in PIT, try the Tap Room at the William Penn (OMNI). \n\nNow, on to sushi, which is the 2nd reason this restaurant deserves a stop. When on the road, a quick beer, good appetizer & sushi are a necessity. What I enjoy most about the sushi here is that it is just plain old sushi, not dresssed up with a butch of cream cheese rolls, sirancha mayo or eel sauce everywhere. Plain ass boring nigiri, sashimi & rolls, which is exactly what I am looking for on the road.\n\nWhen in doubt on the road, stop by the Westin for dinner (or lunch) at the Fish Market it won't disappoint.", "business_id": "z4cCguoHdU48pj6sXMIzqg", "stars": 3, "date": "2010-09-03", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "n3BI9WEjZU_CKomujSD6WQ", "review_id": "HRelsrR9XYZZHu1AQdNQ2Q", "text": "We were staying at the Westin and it was late and the Original Fish Market was right on site. Well the experience at both the hotel and the restaurant was dismal. We waited too long to be seated and the hosted seemed to have attitude when we asked one of the servers to find her. A simple \"Sorry for the wait\" would have been nice. We were about to leave after waiting 15 mins for a waiter. Unfortunately we did not. The food was all bland and tasteless. Oh! Except for the bold taste of Obay on the fries. I had blackened rainbow trout. I expected a bold favors but yet nothing. It was not even blackened. Looked like paprika for color, but that was it. Mash potatoes were dry and tasted gritty like it came from a box. We skipped dessert for obvious reasons. I am not adverse to paying top dollar for a great meal. I hate paying top dollar for a lousy meal that I could have done better myself.\n\nDo yourself a favor and avoid the Original Fish Market. I was generous to give one star.", "business_id": "z4cCguoHdU48pj6sXMIzqg", "stars": 1, "date": "2011-11-06", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 2, "useful": 2, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "-o3Kg4vjfaeAKxB4gwKDVg", "review_id": "OvGQn1apsneniE4v0n6XRQ", "text": "This place really should be much higher quality for first the prices and second the only food option at the Westin. I stopped by here two nights ago on a work trip to grab some food. The wine that I ordered was out (which was fine) and substituted - but for a place with a giant wine cellar I wouldn't suspect that should be an issue for the glass wines.\n\nWhen I went to order I asked the server how the scallops were - and asked her to be honest. She said that they are the most well done in Pittsburgh. Well I think she meant that literally because the scallops were as tough as a tire and there presentation was poor with a pile of over salty spinach and some kinds of blobs smeared around the plate. I was a little bummed about my experience when the 55 dollar bill came for one entree and a glass of wine.\n\nAlso a one off thing but the overhead light on the table was like a 10K watt surgical spotlight. It actually hurt my eyes to look at the table it was so bright. That should be an easy adjustment for the management. Food quality on the other hand - you need a new chef.", "business_id": "z4cCguoHdU48pj6sXMIzqg", "stars": 1, "date": "2012-10-25", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "_cJg3kWz6bnDmqEsSe2UEg", "review_id": "-lqTNIeFHwd_ai7AhXmuQQ", "text": "I am sorry to have to give the Original Fish Market a 2 rating, I could of given it a 3-4 but the service was pretty sad! We sat down for lunch after checking into our hotel room. We waited too long for the waiter to initially great us, and there may have only been 5-10 diners in the entire restaurant, so this is the main reason for a 2, hopefully it's a rarity because the food was pretty good. I had the Cod sandwich , it was hot and tasty, probably one of the better fish sandwiches I've had. So it disappoints me to dole out a 2 but service is important!", "business_id": "z4cCguoHdU48pj6sXMIzqg", "stars": 2, "date": "2014-09-21", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "YVv9VfYJC6avVQC5HfGUuA", "review_id": "B7Y-dtft3DyPXIbLzHuJTQ", "text": "Not good. I suspect the servers are over worked or spread too thin b/c the service sucked. The food was ok, but nothing special. It's a shame b/c better service would have made the experience decent.", "business_id": "z4cCguoHdU48pj6sXMIzqg", "stars": 1, "date": "2014-10-26", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "OMikIdIF3NzvrFej1efqlw", "review_id": "VQ1BjW7ni2huvgw_55VrKA", "text": "We checked this out for lunch, since we were staying at the Weston.\n\nThe sushi, I thought, was pretty good. Nothing outstanding, and I probably wouldn't seek it out again, but it wasn't bad. My friends ordered other things off the menu; the verdict was largely that the food looked good, but was bland; this was especially apparently true of the fish sandwich.\n\nThe attached bar is *small* with a very limited selection of beers and liquors. Perplexingly, they also have loads of bar seating, but don't open that area for happy hour time. It seems you could not get appetizers and hang out until some point later in the evening.\n\nSuper expensive too. Go somewhere else for lunch, there are many better options in the area.", "business_id": "z4cCguoHdU48pj6sXMIzqg", "stars": 2, "date": "2014-11-02", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "mXJS_e-zR68eExLhMrxJPA", "review_id": "dbWy4CHax4Q0k40fudA1pQ", "text": "OMG what a nightmare. I was there last saturday at 9pm with a group of 10 people in the second floor bar area. The bartenders acted like it was a big inconvience that we were there. ordered drinks and didnt even get a thank you. the bar was dirty and littered with dirty glasses. The restrooms were filthy and didnt even have toliet paper . We left the bar and spent a HUGE anoun of money up the street.. I will never go back.", "business_id": "wHi8ODv7TGmeUB02XoX-mA", "stars": 1, "date": "2009-11-22", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "-JLiC5WLQIu2usjYTNmS2w", "review_id": "d7ns8xiyQ5KXrsgiViezVg", "text": "Not sure why others didn't like this place? I had a great experience. \n\nI had the beer steamed shrimp which was a dozen or so large shrimp steamed in beer. The shrimp were cooked thoroughly but not overcooked or rubbery and they were de-veined which is the mark of a place that knows what are doing. I'm from FL originally so I'm picky about that. Try the shrimp with the horseradish and cocktail sauce mixed they give you and it will definitely clear out your sinuses!\n\nMy wife had the beer battered fish sandwich, it was great and it had so much cod she gave me half of it just so she could actually fit it on the bun.\n\nThis place also has a 4 for $12 Corona special. This place is worth checking out on the strip.", "business_id": "wHi8ODv7TGmeUB02XoX-mA", "stars": 4, "date": "2010-10-11", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "2SVk2vGxT4sPbtoU-VG6bg", "review_id": "mjqrhDELaC37czPiZmojWg", "text": "I was immediately displeased by the snaggle toothed hostess and her surly demeanor. The air conditioning was non existent, which is a hangover nightmare. While waiting for a table the bartender ignored us for ten minutes and couldn't even transfer our drinks to the table. He also casually instructed me that one must pay per beer - duh! I'm not a beer drinking novice. The acne-ridden server was friendly enough, but seemed forlorn and was overtly sweating. Bringing drinks to a table isn't neuroscience and I don't drink tap water. After sitting at our table for a few minutes it was very apparent that the entire serving staff is haggard. Appetizer - crab artichoke dip. Bland. Where's the crab? Also, did a toddler arrange the plate? Apparently. Meal - fish tacos. Came quickly and surprisingly flavorful. However, our server never once checked on our status and we had to beckon him to fulfill our needs. I shouldn't have to ask for napkins at the point of need. No tip, never coming back.", "business_id": "wHi8ODv7TGmeUB02XoX-mA", "stars": 2, "date": "2011-09-03", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 3, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "aJEjMk7BfXeLO4kuKJSGOw", "review_id": "TallxVozrJjlXFV1EXTdEQ", "text": "It was raining and we were in the Strip district craving some seafood. We decided to stop by Roland's Seafood Grill.\n\nWe were seated right away close to the bar in front of the big screen projector where the US open was playing. Our orders were taken right away then we waited for 30 minutes before our meals came out. We were glad for the US Open entertainment.\n\nMy dad order the clam chowder soup, which was chunky and bare of any clams. My mom and I shared a couple of appetizers, the calamari was great but the crab cake was just ok and a bit salty.\n\nService gets 2 stars and Food gets 3 stars.\n\nOverall, this place gets a 2.5 stars. If you are caught in the rain and do not have any other choices in the strip area, stop by. I would recommend scoping out the other restaurants in the area.", "business_id": "wHi8ODv7TGmeUB02XoX-mA", "stars": 2, "date": "2011-09-06", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "yJ-O9Y7Y-uK-0ywjc8G57g", "review_id": "MQmtofJ0JOmfqrOQzTZjdQ", "text": "In the Strip District, there's not many options when you're hungry. Walking up and down, the Strip district is filled with booths of steelers and penguins gear. There was a breakfast place and Primanti brothers that was packed. So we were dying for some food and ran across Roland's. We got mussels and banana peppers stuffed with sausage for our appetizers. I also got a lobster roll. They gave us a lot of mussels slathered with garlic and butter. Surprisingly good. And the banana peppers were not bad too. I also enjoyed my lobster roll. Buttered toast and big chunks of lobster meat. I had no room left to finish off my fries. \n\nNow, I can't decide if the food was average or below average as we were pretty hungry. I'll give Roland's the benefit of the doubt. Don't expect anything spectacular, just food that fills your belly.", "business_id": "wHi8ODv7TGmeUB02XoX-mA", "stars": 3, "date": "2011-10-17", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 3, "cool": 2}, "user_id": "SE9M0HgzlGVE7YD4rhf-rA", "review_id": "ceS0pDzjuSD04_rVi_op1g", "text": "We headed to the strip district to soak in the atmosphere like any good tourist should do.\n\nUnfortunately we love to sleep and showed up a little late and by the time we were ready to eat (around 4pm) our list of recommended places to try were already closed for the day. \n\nRoland's was open though. As an added bonus they were showing the Steeler's game and there is nothing that Pittsburgh loves more than supporting the Steeler's and Penguin's. The atmosphere was great with everyone dressed in black and yellow and really into the game.\n\nWe ordered wedding soup (pretty delicious) and Portobello Mushroom Pizza. Maybe our mistake was not ordering seafood, anyway the caramelized onions on it were actually cooked in sugar (eww) and the sauce itself was just as sweet. It felt like we were eating candy.\n\nAs for the staff, Pittsburgh in general has some of the friendliest people I've come across in a long time. The staff here may not have been quite as friendly as we had come to expect from the rest of this lovely city but they were just fine.", "business_id": "wHi8ODv7TGmeUB02XoX-mA", "stars": 2, "date": "2011-10-25", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "HdYmWVAGEo_8Uq3p4Pt_3Q", "review_id": "9lLQ-4bqLNN_I_jZV_XkeQ", "text": "As others have said, nice location and sitting on the patio is nice in the warm sunny months, but the food is not anything special. Fried seafood, decent lobster roll, other non-impressive dishes. good for a few drinks and a quick bite if in the area.", "business_id": "wHi8ODv7TGmeUB02XoX-mA", "stars": 2, "date": "2011-11-30", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "eX0QV0_nvHQYLmVs0vAnrA", "review_id": "ZgFjQgEYcJD4c7u_8YAmcQ", "text": "Roland's wasnt a bad place to grab a few drinks, a sandwich, and a lobster roll. The food was pretty good and they have a huge bottled beer selection. The upstairs patio is by far the most popular place to sit - being above the strip and people watching is nice. This isn't a place for people who like good draft beer or premium food, it's still a dive bar.\n\nIt probably would have received four stars, but our bartender seemed pretty lazy.", "business_id": "wHi8ODv7TGmeUB02XoX-mA", "stars": 3, "date": "2012-09-16", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 2, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "7WoDhRqUZOJLynjfEJKXQw", "review_id": "BmltGYYsySX7Q7FhXHSDqw", "text": "So, four of us came in for the first time.\n\nDiner 1 - ordered the lobster roll sandwich. Lobster on a roll, nothing more...that's it. Nothing special - have no idea why people would rave about this. A bland, poor excuse of a sandwich that does a disservice to all northeasterners who know what a lobster roll is, and this ain't it. Is this lobster? Read on.\n\nDiner 2 - ordered a large raw bar sampler, which was six Quahog clams, six oysters and six rubbery shrimp. Who serves tough, chewy Quahogs on a raw bar? This dive. Also ordered the mussels, which were not seasoned and swimming in water. No wine/garlic sauce as advertised on the menu - water. Bland and awful. Finished with the Mediterranean pizza which is spinach, feta and olives - the better part of the dinner.\n\nDiner 3 - steamed clams. Again who serves Quahogs for steamed clams? These amateurs. Also had the clam chowder - which appropriately had minced Quahogs in it. \n\nDiner 4 - ordered the salad with the lobster roll, hold the bread. Also asked for the lobster to be served chilled with it. Lobster came hot and was dyed a deep red color. Why the need to put lobster in a dye? Because...it's not Maine lobster! Imposter fish is dyed and artificially flavored, then frozen, then thawed, then microwaved at Roland's and called lobster. That's my guess.\n\nSent the mussels back. No offer to reduce the check or offer a comped dessert. \n\nRest rooms are dirty, and smell of urine. Men's was an awful smelling pit and I was told that the ladies had one toilet drenched with urine on the seat, another blocked up and overflowing and a third that could be used.\n\nThis place is a smelly, dingy, dive bar with horrible food and poor service. It is a trap for the unsuspecting tourist. \n\nYou have been warned...STAY AWAY!", "business_id": "wHi8ODv7TGmeUB02XoX-mA", "stars": 1, "date": "2013-09-01", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "m-F1KO942lzUKR5OqE7wlg", "review_id": "qV0vYpp-efBbSqLP-M6wLA", "text": "I love Roland's happy hour! It's for a raw bar rather than the actual bar. 60 cent oysters, clams, cocktail shrimp, and wings. It's good and you can't beat the price. The downfall? The clams i got steamed and they were a little over done, and the oysters were left attached to the shell. But for 60 cents, I can deal with taking them Off myself. As far as service? We sat at the bar, he wasn't very friendly or rude, just meh. But the food came out in a timely manner.", "business_id": "wHi8ODv7TGmeUB02XoX-mA", "stars": 3, "date": "2013-09-05", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "rSdp-De4zOUfpSzmwLLECQ", "review_id": "1_fk-8FsrFFiqlbdo1hrNQ", "text": "If 0 stars were possible I'd give em. Got back from here yesterday evening and I am physically ill. \n\nI didn't even touch the anemic, yellow and fishy smelling muscles - not that the waiter asked why we hadn't eaten them, more on this character in a moment. My ahi tuna steak was decent, but I think the scallops are what got me and my friend is sick as well. Just saying - check your food before the waiter walks off.\n\nSpeaking of the waiter - one of the worst I've ever had the displeasure of umm being served by? That sounds awkward and vaguely jack-assy ... Hmm the mild poisoning I have is affecting my wit, but you follow me.\n\nThis guy spilled half the water out of the oysters while trying to put a plate down, and didn't notice or say anything about it when he did; he asked me how I wanted my tuna steak prepared??! \n\nWorst of all he spoke in this low monotone while other customers and cars going by drown him out so all you can tell is he asked you something because he's standing there with this kind of 'come on!' look on his face - totally rude and completely inept. I was hard put to give 10% tip to be honest. \n\nI'd suggest the similar bar down the road for better quality food and service. Good luck out there!", "business_id": "wHi8ODv7TGmeUB02XoX-mA", "stars": 1, "date": "2013-10-13", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "QG8mK-q3eyzLeJd41W8kFA", "review_id": "T98AJiSEW6AnD3M8YbrL9g", "text": "There is not a more hard working and pleasant bartender then John H. And I've met too many to admit to. The 4-6pm happy hour oysters, clams and shrimp are so ridiculously underpriced - 60 cents!!! I only order the oysters as they've been top notch, shucked well. For all the peeps complaining about lobster roll - smart people order lobster roll in Maine. The seafood stew overflows with sea scallops, shrimp, clams, mussels and lobster. At 21.99, it's best value. Also filled with roasted potatoes and a roux that's the right level of spice. It's a feast! I'm a business traveler and John is now a friend. 'Nuff said! Update: the stuffed shrimp are also very good.", "business_id": "wHi8ODv7TGmeUB02XoX-mA", "stars": 5, "date": "2013-10-18", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "8VuwnA7aWqg_wGk5nvCjtg", "review_id": "4YaQEe62KH2bXVm9_jOJzQ", "text": "Lunch on a Wednesday with 4 people. Lobster rolls= excellent! Crab cake sandwich= excellent! Yummy, warm fries! Very good service and warm food! Was worried when we saw poor rating on Yelp. Very happy and will come back!", "business_id": "wHi8ODv7TGmeUB02XoX-mA", "stars": 5, "date": "2013-10-25", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "7McBvdthcKd_JBmcYvfZ_Q", "review_id": "lpSAqB4k4iz4fnkgulAGTw", "text": "I gave this place a 3 star because the service and drinks are great. It's a great place to have a beer with friends but the food is gross....", "business_id": "wHi8ODv7TGmeUB02XoX-mA", "stars": 3, "date": "2013-10-31", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 2, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "2rSeth60_CuWN3ZJ4k41lg", "review_id": "aADYvapoTu2cIjqS9t0JNQ", "text": "Let's see.... Rolands can be fun to go to for happy hour after work on Friday. Heck they used to have these two bartenders that if you were a good looking girl at least one would give you a beer or two but making up the difference by overcharging or flat out giving incorrect change back to some male patrons. Anyhow, they have a somewhat unique upstairs and in the summer they have the balcony that you can sit out on. One summer night it began to storm and one of their umbrellas flew off the base and cracked me in the head. I though I was going to pass out, but the bartender just came out gathered the pieces and put them back together folding the umbrella down. Yea no reason to apologize I just could have been decapitated. \\\nNow onto the food.....uh well....my best suggestion is, if you are on a timed lunch or have limited time for dinner, PICK SOMEWHERE ELSE! you will only get frustrated with the SLOW AS HELL service. Suggestions, hmm not entirely sure since nothing I ate here impressed me much. The lobster roll, I am certain wasn't \"real\" lobster and was very rubbery, and dry. Way too much bun to lobster type meat, and overpriced for a sandwich, $15.00 I think. Next we got the oysters. 6 were supposed to be in an order but they only delivered 5. But good luck finding the waitress, she showed up 3x's in the hour and half that we were there for dinner. Not because it took us an hour and half to eat but 15 minutes to get waited on. 15 more minutes for drinks, and to order. 45 minutes for food to come, and I think you get the picture... I wouldn't eat here again, there are many other places to choose from. Lastly I ordered a draft beer it was warm, told the waiter who got me a bottle but still charged me for both... NICE...", "business_id": "wHi8ODv7TGmeUB02XoX-mA", "stars": 2, "date": "2013-11-08", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 3, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "0vCEI3ZJF_gXgWHpcR7WtA", "review_id": "SAzA9UJIAiewFnIpEimrvQ", "text": "I've tried and tried to give this place a chance. It's upsets me that an establishment like this can exist among so many great places in the Strip. I end up at Roland's because my boyfriend's co-workers always want to go there for happy hour. They have a special on oysters and shrimp cocktail, so I ordered those. The oysters were absolutely disgusting. They were not fresh, or cleaned very well. My fingers ended up getting all dirty and they had a gross, gritty taste to them. They threw the POORLY deveined shrimp on ice, and it ended up soggy. I had to pick the veins out myself, and after about two I lost my appetite. As always, the service was terrible. Next time I'm dragged to a happy hour there, I'll order water. Never again will I spend money in this place. YUCK!", "business_id": "wHi8ODv7TGmeUB02XoX-mA", "stars": 1, "date": "2013-11-22", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "ukrBUZXE5K1J57FI7ve_RQ", "review_id": "udb2ZpV5qMgkyVRMG9PIfw", "text": "The bar has a nice selection of beers. The Irish bartender who works Monday nights is extremely welcoming and friendly. \n\nFor food I tried the raw bar happy hour. The oysters were alright but nothing special. The shrimp were quite small, probably U-20 count which for Shrimp Cocktail is tiny. The wings were very disappointing. Extremely small and flavorless. And finally the steamed clams were CHEWY. \n\nIn recap, come here for the beers and the nice bartenders. The food you can do without.", "business_id": "wHi8ODv7TGmeUB02XoX-mA", "stars": 3, "date": "2013-11-26", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "Bjrp9NYxQsn_NSu275AE0g", "review_id": "zAUbJT_nxO3rrmMUhD_Udg", "text": "Poor excuse for seafood! The place is overrated. Good place to have drinks on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon-but that's about it. The employees are anything but friendly. Unless you sit at the bar, the service is poor. Isn't even that great at the bar. If you want good seafood, go a couple blocks up the street to Luke Wholeys. So much better quality! This place is definitely not for those with sophisticated palates!", "business_id": "wHi8ODv7TGmeUB02XoX-mA", "stars": 2, "date": "2014-09-02", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "AYuc6JL3DAr8SbBs7yqC4w", "review_id": "AyeiSm36LbbnkvmHQ0DX_w", "text": "The wait staff looked like they were bussed in from a homeless shelter. The strange hostesses seated my party of 4, & it took 25 minutes to get our first beers. Ordered an app & left 25 minutes later, the lobster nachos never came, which sucked because I was quote excited about those. The place is gross! There was food & trash all over the floor & I watched several women exit the restroom with very disgusted looks on there face because the restroom was so nasty. This was confirmed by my wife. Skip this place & go anywhere else in the Strip District", "business_id": "wHi8ODv7TGmeUB02XoX-mA", "stars": 1, "date": "2014-09-07", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "RQ2BAkfTB7C6pD72OwFj8A", "review_id": "fbQJKNaejBs4SpAaWM_EUQ", "text": "We figured we'd give it a try even though the reviews weren't great. Brother in law enjoyed his wings and the beer wasn't bad. Bartender was helpful.", "business_id": "wHi8ODv7TGmeUB02XoX-mA", "stars": 3, "date": "2014-09-13", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "Sdy0RPXf0nxZ-15Zb_Fxmg", "review_id": "akUE1dDAYkY6-DlleE8RRg", "text": "Fabulous beer selection, enjoyed eating outside, and great famous lobster roll sandwich. Thoroughly enjoy eating here and people watching in the Strip! And I've never had to wait long for a table even though they are always packed! And the waitstaff is very attentive but not annoyingly so.", "business_id": "wHi8ODv7TGmeUB02XoX-mA", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-09-28", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "e6GiLUdbUaPX7-P9QtHrXg", "review_id": "gdpBMgHiz4t5b6ptPPHQEA", "text": "I liked the bar. The food not at all. First time here, wife and I sat at the bar and people watched over some WELL POURED drinks. Strong point. Then we screwed up and ordered food. I got their infamous lobster roll. Glad I had a drink. Overcooked and dry, dry, dry. I thought lobster roll was generally made with a lobster salad-like mix. This lobster was dry and chewy. Lots of it, though I guess that accounts for the high price. I went down to Wholeys and got a much tastier one for 5 bucks. And wife's nachos were just a big pile of chips with some toppings thrown on the top. Then the other day, we went back and I tried pizza. Yuck. The toppings were terrible (pepperoni, sausage. how can youscrew that up, but they did.) Two slices and boxed it up so as not to hurt the waitress' feelings. But it went into the trashcan down the street. Go for the hootch and not the food!!", "business_id": "wHi8ODv7TGmeUB02XoX-mA", "stars": 2, "date": "2014-10-07", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "QYxCLaJCZl7m8UgrhcjLLQ", "review_id": "CkyspbCadpvzMpK3D2YwWw", "text": "The waiter I got was extremely nice. She explained everything on the menu as well as their specialties. My favorite item was the banana stuffed peppers.", "business_id": "wHi8ODv7TGmeUB02XoX-mA", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-11-02", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "v31XxDf5hbIiOKpJcUnvRw", "review_id": "VeNOVz1I5F5JIGW6Nd877A", "text": "Super disappointed in this place. Came here for a paint nite they were hosting and arrived over an hour beforehand to eat. All I ordered was soup and salad in order to be quick and my friends who ordered a lobster roll and shrimp got their food within 20 minutes. 40 minutes later, and ten minutes prior to painting I still had not received mine. On top of that, there was only one bartender working the whole top floor. When we told him I'd have to cancel my order to begin the event he began cursing about the staff at the restaurant- it was incredibly awkward. When the food arrived it was mediocre at best. Will not be coming back to this place unless I'm dragged.", "business_id": "wHi8ODv7TGmeUB02XoX-mA", "stars": 1, "date": "2014-11-17", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "6s6zOu4KOlnYDWkK8fT4PQ", "review_id": "HuUdrtacJhyt1AnRQNV1tA", "text": "Went there Saturday November29, 2014. Entered establishment at 5:30 pm. PROS.....Very good clam chowder...biggest bowl of it I've ever been served. Sandwiches... 2 lobster rolls and 1 fish sandwich.....Both very good, although the fish was slightly overcooked. Again...huge portions. CONS...After being at table since 5:30, nothing but our empty pop glasses were in front if us. After being told said clam chowder was being freshly cooked, 15 minutes later it was served. As good as it was, it certainly wasn't hot enough to claim it just came out if the pot. Our sandwiches finally came out after other tables around who had ordered well after us received our orders. They may also want to schedule a couple more servers on a Saturday night. The best though was the incompetent hostess. The hostess with the leastest. Talk about someone who didn't have a clue. From screwing up where we were supposed to sit, to watching her continue to do the same thing with others, at least it gave us something to talk about while we waited. What a twit.", "business_id": "wHi8ODv7TGmeUB02XoX-mA", "stars": 2, "date": "2014-11-30", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "BvuIZ0XmxRBOdiRzEaPaww", "review_id": "st4lBNKcpLu82_H5v_3Jhg", "text": "I haven't been here in a couple years. I have to say, it was AWESOME! They really spruced up the place. Nice new Roland's glasses, food was very good. I usually get the bucket of mussels but i saw someone else get them and now they are on a plate/tray when served. No biggie, i'm certain they're still delicious. I opted for the Maryland Crab Chowder, which was incredible and the Lobster Roll. The Lobster Roll was just as i remembered, awesome. I don't think they raised their prices since the last time i was there, 2 or 3 years ago. The only reason i'm giving 4 stars instead of 5 is because their bathroom is filthy. Also their iron landing was closed. Food and service were supreme! Can't wait to go back.", "business_id": "wHi8ODv7TGmeUB02XoX-mA", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-09-06", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "Rw122Crzje5wU1-guzkGBQ", "review_id": "fNZozRZLBnk8Zg8-OhZ3Eg", "text": "I've been here several times and have never had a bad meal. The prices were a little expensive for what we got. They took one of my favorite dishes, raspberry maple scallops, off the menu so I took a star off. \nTonight we had the calamari which was fresh, lightly breaded and fried and huge pieces. After that we had the Cajun shrimp. It was decent but nothing special and only had 6 small shrimp. The mango salsa was nice but didn't add much to the dish. I ordered the land and sea and got the beer battered shrimp. The shrimp for the entree was bigger than the appetizer and done well. My steak was cooked right and tasty. Overall it is a good restaurant with good service. Not the best but far from the worst. I will be back.", "business_id": "wHi8ODv7TGmeUB02XoX-mA", "stars": 3, "date": "2015-09-08", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "QeK5sYOJbfUxF6xqczrKgg", "review_id": "N7Ycmr11f-1_yENk4qxROA", "text": "The service was great. Our waitress was very friendly and attentive. The food, however, was disappointing. The calamari was actually really nice, light and not super greasy, but the Cajun shrimp were tiny and underwhelming. With six very small pieces bathing in oil and a side of flavorless mango salsa, I would not recommend this appetizer at all. I got the shrimp scampi entree, which comes with the vegetable of the day, salad and potatoes. The potatoes and salad were good, but the corn was very small and brown. It looked like it went bad and they cooked it anyway. Then I tasted it and knew it went bad and they cooked it anyway. That, for me, ruined my whole meal. No amount of butter and salt could save that corn. My bf got the steak with battered shrimp. He enjoyed his meal but didn't want the potatoes and corn. They wouldn't substitute with anything except salad so basically it was $30 for a piece of steak and a few pieces of shrimp. For seafood, in general, the prices were not bad, but I rather pay more and have a better quality meal.", "business_id": "wHi8ODv7TGmeUB02XoX-mA", "stars": 2, "date": "2015-09-09", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "RdnRQUOibkictSEbEyi8CQ", "review_id": "30ZkuM22pneK0EwPGt2uFw", "text": "Waited to be seated for 15 minutes, no one greeted us. Asked a passing waitress if we seat ourselves. Waitress walked up the stairs and shouted out NO! 10 minutes later, same waitress passed by and again we asked if we could be seated. She walked up the stairs and ignored us. We asked totalk to the manager and she threw her arms up and said, if you can find him! Needless to say, we will not be returning to this place.", "business_id": "wHi8ODv7TGmeUB02XoX-mA", "stars": 1, "date": "2015-09-21", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "QdZTJRq9dZIGzunwt3-LwA", "review_id": "AXH4aVPxtQSTUv6MH-RyAA", "text": "We had raw bar oysters which were very good and lobster rolls. The lobster rolls were served warm which was interesting but the seasoned butter sauce took away all the taste of lobster. Would be willing to go back to try something else but wasn't overwhelmed.", "business_id": "wHi8ODv7TGmeUB02XoX-mA", "stars": 3, "date": "2015-10-04", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "D4nk4TUV1hUj87-eWyP1Cg", "review_id": "p1TyRnSAaJrvWthHrFlzUw", "text": "Extremely disapointed, we signed our receipt for a total of $55 later to find out we were charged $88, I guess our waitress needed the extra $30. Never going back, letting our bank handle this one. Would love to see the receipt copy we left again!", "business_id": "wHi8ODv7TGmeUB02XoX-mA", "stars": 1, "date": "2015-10-04", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "-ODqWYlRKvx9c4UD9VnaSg", "review_id": "4Hx9KJffs_MnlMu-UsmEjQ", "text": "BEWARE Duquesne/Pitt families visiting or anyone else! Awful food and service! Super slow, cold fries, freezer burned carrots, rubbery lobster claws. Wait, Ceasar salad was ok! Who hunts down the server for 10 minutes to get the check! We could've just left without paying, but I believe in Karma. NO Stars!", "business_id": "wHi8ODv7TGmeUB02XoX-mA", "stars": 1, "date": "2015-10-10", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 4, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "_BV9_YrP3sQlNVzaJo2z_w", "review_id": "NdcBS5rYbT2-kg4DggXMeQ", "text": "Spending a beautiful day in the strip a few weeks ago culminated in a (what I'd hoped) was a quick stop at Roland's. Grab a beer, lobster roll and salad, and I'd be home before traffic. I was not so lucky. \nI arrived and was immediately sat by a waitress that appeared to be extremely overwhelmed by the five tables in the patio. There were a few guests at the bar, being entertained by the bartender. I should have gone and sat there, but it was so nice out, I decided to eat on the patio. \nMy beer order was taken quickly, but then took twelve minutes to arrive. By that time, the head was gone, and it was losing it's cool. The waitress abruptly dropped off the beer and disappeared. I already knew what I was ordering, but she flitted around from table to table awkwardly for a good ten minutes until I made creepy eye contact with her and she shuffled my way. She took my order, and pretended to care about what I was ordering, but then disappeared again. \nForty minutes later my poor lobster roll arrived. The fries were mushy, and the lobster roll took six (SIX!) napkins to sop up all the grease. I ate it, but I wasn't happy. About three bites in (and with the fastest response time of my dining experience) here comes awkward waitress again, asking if I needed anything else. I decided on another beer. She then proceeded to ask me if I minded if she smoked a cigarette before she grabbed my beer. (WHAT?!) No. Forget the beer. Bring me my check. \nWith no tip for awkward waitress, I left. Probably never to return.\n\nHappy Eating, just not here.", "business_id": "wHi8ODv7TGmeUB02XoX-mA", "stars": 1, "date": "2015-10-22", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "R18VdvXienYS4G2e0rlCyg", "review_id": "qdThjTFxzIoqfRsmjq-O9w", "text": "I ate dinner here with a group to celebrate a friend's birthday. My overall opinion is that the service was terrible and the food was overpriced. \n\nOur drinks took 15-20 minutes to arrive. We were drinking beers, so I'm not sure why it took so long. We had to wait an extremely long time for our food, I would estimate at least 45 minutes. We had ordered calamari and bruschetta for appetizers, but they were served with the entrees. When we started to eat it became very obvious that our food had been sitting for a while. Anyone who had french fries said they were cold. I ordered the rosemary shrimp scampi, which came with mashed potatoes and a broccoli/carrot mix. The mashed potatoes were lukewarm at best, and the vegetables were cold. I ate the broccoli, but I don't like raw carrots so I didn't eat those. It honestly looked like they just threw a handful of baby carrots onto the plate. As for the shrimp itself, it tasted good but wasn't what I expected. I was expecting a pasta-type dish, but it was just 5 or 6 pieces of shrimp in a garlic butter bath. And I don't think a few pieces of shrimp and cold vegetables should cost $23, especially when I was still hungry after the meal. To top it all off, we realized halfway into our meals that we were never given napkins. We had to ask twice for them to be brought out.\n\nThe only good thing about the experience was the beer selection. If I ever come back here I will just stick to the bar and not waste my time or money on the food.", "business_id": "wHi8ODv7TGmeUB02XoX-mA", "stars": 1, "date": "2015-11-08", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "P0Y5JnDqFPBYX2JwcqW6oA", "review_id": "JqYgfxh3w9aeVqzUT1uP0w", "text": "First time there and the food was amazing. Definitely recommended place to eat, drink and enjoy the company", "business_id": "wHi8ODv7TGmeUB02XoX-mA", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-11-14", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "2qTBgbuLNclhcWjw2IfwaQ", "review_id": "3G_hJTmwndnAJsi7ZwUjtQ", "text": "I ended up eating here out of hunger and exhaustion during my weekend in pittsburgh last week. We mentioned to the server we were not from here and unsure what we wanted and he offered no help, just walked away but kept coming back to the table every few minutes saying, \"so, what can i get you?\". We decided on things and order. Worst service i've had in a long time, rude and he didn't really care to help us at all. We ended up getting the lobster ravioli and a wood fired pizza and both were average at best. For a $30 meal each, not great. Really the service is what did it for me. I will remember to never return while i'm in pittsburgh. \n\nAnother thing was that we were sitting in basically a sports bar spending$30 on ravioli. Horrible atmosphere for the food on the menu in parts.", "business_id": "wHi8ODv7TGmeUB02XoX-mA", "stars": 2, "date": "2015-11-29", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "u1KESST6ATusVrn7F6HUvw", "review_id": "F4uUXd-06gqdY-g6gI9thw", "text": "It has all been said before--it's a great place to settle in for a beer. The night I was there a couple of guys were performing music. We had the wings--I would not call them memorable. Again, a great view of the river and the city.", "business_id": "41CXLCeB8z2oNdIOvnrzIA", "stars": 3, "date": "2011-10-16", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "rkmM0Ku4NmG6gE5DaaEntA", "review_id": "9TTiEwdobxT4eqDN0WlIPA", "text": "Finally, the beer battered fish sandwich I had been looking for (I'm starting quite a few of my reviews off like this lately. Hmm ... )!\n\nSomehow, even though I had been living in Heinz Lofts for a year, I had never heard of this place. It's literally a two minute drive from there or a great bike ride, but whatever. That mistake has been rectified. \n\nI went for lunch last week with my boyfriend and one of his coworkers. Anyone who knows me knows that I love the outside. Sitting outside and eating and drinking, not really being active outside. So this place is right up my alley.\n\nWhen we were first handed the lunch menu, I thought, \"Eh.\" It's short and seemed really random. I settled on the fish sandwich as it was cheap and I still wasn't 100% sold on this place. They do have Heineken Light, which I am a big fan of, so that was a plus. For me, at least. I think I am alone in this city with my love of Heini Light. \n\nMy fish sandwich was so, so tasty and what I had been looking for since I went to Penn Ave Fish Company. Perfect breading and the bun did not conflict with the taste. I slather on the tartar sauce because I'm that kind of gal. I had fries as a side and they were tasty.\n\nGreat lunch and great location for relaxing. I could have stayed there all day.", "business_id": "41CXLCeB8z2oNdIOvnrzIA", "stars": 4, "date": "2012-09-18", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "H_AKKEnEcuYrujI7xSxyeA", "review_id": "8itFNM1dwo5O-F6gaTecsg", "text": "It's hard to beat the atmosphere of this place in the summer. It's outdoor dining is right on the river, hovering above Washington's Landing Marina. However, the service is seriously lacking. With my parent's boat docked right below Redfin's, we frequently dine here before headed out on the water. The service has always been very slow. I understand that on a typical Friday or Saturday night it can get rather busy, but they should anticipate the crowd and be able to plan accordingly to accommodate! Luckily, the view is so nice that most of the time we're left waiting....and waiting....and waiting....it isn't too big of a deal because we're enjoying the outdoor space. \n\nThe food is average. Nothing I've had there was to die for, but on the same token, nothing was awful either. I'd only suggest this place to marina-goers or those looking for a nice outdoor dining space. Oh, and only come if you have lots of time!", "business_id": "41CXLCeB8z2oNdIOvnrzIA", "stars": 2, "date": "2012-09-18", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "RkqhIj7Z8XxKs56PkFDPNw", "review_id": "SmGPPVGGrNQ6u8ek3ZzZvw", "text": "average at best. Best view of the city by far though. Go in summer or no point in going. \n\nThe beer battered fish is good, yet there's much better in the city. It's nice and crispy, served on a fresh roll, tartar, lettuce, all that jazz. However again it's not worth venturing over for unless weather is perfect for an evening outside. \n\nChicken quesidilla, same thing. Average. \n\nI've went for 6 years now waiting for it to become something good. It's not going to happen. But I'll keep trying hoping.", "business_id": "41CXLCeB8z2oNdIOvnrzIA", "stars": 2, "date": "2012-09-27", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "usWnLXFTWxTa42HEnTsZtQ", "review_id": "Lm26OVBoDDGP24TLA7O24g", "text": "Completely chill environment. I pretty much always get the chicken quesadilla which is awesome, so I really can't comment on anything else. The prices are good and the service is quick.", "business_id": "41CXLCeB8z2oNdIOvnrzIA", "stars": 4, "date": "2013-09-15", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "EZRwXVx7rypSLF6xhy57KQ", "review_id": "OeDqbHuwzvvNJ-HQwqwp9g", "text": "Great location and fun for drinks on a beautiful day. If their food quality was better it would be worth the price, because it's just OK at best. That's the only thing missing from this place which is too bad cuz other than the food I love it.", "business_id": "41CXLCeB8z2oNdIOvnrzIA", "stars": 3, "date": "2014-10-01", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "FHe52usSwxTGrCgRbysv1w", "review_id": "2ZCx9aXc_hJzb_cMWu63og", "text": "Cool setting but for me that was about it. The menu was a huge let down. Not much fresh seafood. Battered and fried. Very dark outside as well. We didn't care for the atmosphere and didn't actually eat anything. Just a glass of wine.", "business_id": "41CXLCeB8z2oNdIOvnrzIA", "stars": 2, "date": "2015-09-26", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "6wtChs7rFfOqp1OtRxqARA", "review_id": "hnI7xcaiDwp2tgQst-XOaQ", "text": "The atmosphere is great however thats about the only positive. The cobwebs on the railing outside need to be taken care of. So gross and not something I want to look at while eating! The service was terrible. In the server's defense, we were there pretty late (still within an hr of closing) so they were worried about cleaning and getting ready to close but that shouldn't be an excuse not to pay attention to the customers. We had to go inside and hunt down the server just to pay our check as we got impatient waiting for him. The food was definitely nothing to brag about. The cheese on the fries is more of a nacho cheese, the lobster bisque was thin and had a cooked tomato flavor and the crab cake was very acidic, hiding the crab flavor. Overall, pretty mediocre and not a place I would recommend for food.", "business_id": "41CXLCeB8z2oNdIOvnrzIA", "stars": 3, "date": "2015-09-28", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 3, "useful": 2, "cool": 4}, "user_id": "x_MbMxRc_FVlZrTqclfUyw", "review_id": "yVg3V9Yc-j1fUJN4AlycfQ", "text": "My grandpap loves it,\nAnd that's good enough for me.\nDon't insult him...eat.", "business_id": "-KQ283hJkBO12u8XOrlCcQ", "stars": 4, "date": "2009-10-05", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "3d0Vw3hPiUEWMwrlnC-IOQ", "review_id": "0Ch-G6xrdQy5B-Vaus1f8w", "text": "This is one of the better places to get a simple fried fish sandwich.\n\nThe atmosphere is a little wet, dank and dreary. The place feels as old as it looks. Still, the pictures of various celebrities and sports stars gives it an authentic, old-time feel.\n\nThe staff isn't overly friendly but they're not rude either; as another reviewer said, it's a little Pittsburghese attitude. It's just matter-of-fact. Come in, order your fish and eat it.\n\nDuring the summers, they also have soft-serve ice cream which is a nice treat after lunch.\n\nI keep coming back here because the fried fish sandwich really is worth it. A huge filet of fish, fried up simply. The fish is moist, perhaps a little greasy, but still delicious and the filet is thick so you're not getting more breading than fish.", "business_id": "-KQ283hJkBO12u8XOrlCcQ", "stars": 3, "date": "2010-09-20", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "IQWFQD0ZZVa5XoLnWCDTlQ", "review_id": "_QprD47GrcrEWWRjjhHpww", "text": "If this place could be described in four words, they would be:\n\nAngry, Sweaty, Dive-y, and DELICIOUS\n\nThis place is a Pittsburgh classic. Don't go here if your looking for some hip and trendy seafood joint. I'm pretty sure the decor hasn't changed in the past 50 years, but that's part of what makes it awesome.\n\nThe cashiers and cooks are angry, and slightly scary looking, but not in a bad way (if that makes any sense whatsoever). Their no-nonsense, \"soup-nazi\" style fits with the classic blue-collar Pittsburgh motif this place is still holding on to. If you go in knowing what you want, you'll be fine.\n\nBottom line, and most importantly, the food. Pretty much everything is fried, but it's all good. Never too greasy, and only lightly breaded. When lent rolls around, you always see every restaurant in town with signs boasting, \"Voted Best Fish in Town.\" I'm not sure who's voting, and how EVERY restaurant seems to have the best. Don't be fooled, Oyster House IS the best fried fish in town.", "business_id": "-KQ283hJkBO12u8XOrlCcQ", "stars": 4, "date": "2011-09-16", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 3, "useful": 3, "cool": 3}, "user_id": "iTmWHtltCtk0Gm55AOxrUA", "review_id": "G-KU8Nb3sERWoXPnjqdpqg", "text": "Let's face it folks--this ain't McCormick & Schmick. It's a dive, it's cheap, and the fish here is oh so good, providing you lower your expectations a little. Meaning that you're not gonna get five-star cuisine but you'll get good basic chow here. I went for the baked scrod sandwich and a side of hot sausage soup. Trust me, if you're a soup lover like me, you'll want to come here whenever that's the soup of the day.\n\nGuess I'll be hitting the gym tonight after work.", "business_id": "-KQ283hJkBO12u8XOrlCcQ", "stars": 3, "date": "2011-09-21", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "M6oU3OBf_E6gqlfkLGlStQ", "review_id": "DEsKxG9A4uAOdhes3MCWnQ", "text": "Great fast fried seafood, cash only and a few other options.\n\nDon't be confused this place consists of two establishments and one kitchen. One is a bar with waiters and liquor, the other is a fast food style place. I chose the latter. Walk in and you will find a menu board with a few specials printed out hanging off of it, no frills, no credit cards, all local flavor.\n\nI went with the Titanic special $10.75 Which included a \"monster\" fish sandwich, and two sides, I chose fries and onion rings.\n\nEverything is made to order, which means crispy fries, rings and a crust on hot flakey fish. The fish here is the real thing not some unnatural square, a large fillet of mild white fish with a great breading on a simple bun. The condiments are on the table and up to you, tartar sauce, hot sauce, a spicy \"famous\" vinegar and ketchup. It was a big sandwich but not titanic maybe just queen marry.\n\nBottom line if you want some fried food and have cash give this a try.", "business_id": "-KQ283hJkBO12u8XOrlCcQ", "stars": 4, "date": "2011-09-24", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 2, "useful": 4, "cool": 3}, "user_id": "1Lu8MAjA8byyrwHQoYpiVQ", "review_id": "EuJrt2duZmEKADYK46E0Hw", "text": "Came here for lunch and after looking at there menu, which was hard to choose from, but I went with the fish and chips (about $7.50) and a side of coleslaw. This place is cash only so make sure you bring it. Loved that the crispiness of the fish and the fries were amazing. What I really loved about this place is that on the table they have oil, vinegar, tartar sauce, hot sauce and the fish came with cocktail sauce so you get to try a huge spectrum of taste with your fish. \n\nThis is my kind of place, its reasonably priced, quick, a variety of condiments, great food, they have booze, if I am ever back in the Burgh I am stopping here.", "business_id": "-KQ283hJkBO12u8XOrlCcQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-10-03", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "q7MrNVt1FE23rwtWmPYWHg", "review_id": "8h2OqiJSKtDoYAFX43Xniw", "text": "I have only ever been to Market Square once before, so I was excited to find myself here again! Darren suggested the Original Oyster House for our afternoon meal. Mmmm seafood! I could go for some good seafood, especially fresh oysters! Now, I am from an area not far from the ocean, and every year we had a community oyster roast, you know: fried, steamed, and raw oysters. \n\nUmmm, yeah. Big let down. I should know better than to have high expectations. If I wanted Long John Silvers, or better still Captain D's (look it up if you never heard of Captain D's), then I'd hit up one up, AND get a friendlier server to boot. I also bet I could get into a ladies room without needing a key elsewhere, or even some SWEET N LOW for my tea! Sorry...the more I write the angrier I am getting. One thing I am starting to notice about this area, it seems acceptable to have curt or even rude service. I suppose I was jaded before.\n\nOk, the food itself. The side of coleslaw was rather good. It tasted fresh and creamy! The crabcake...(can I call it that?) was more like a clump of Stove Top Stuffing and a tiny bit of crab meat. The two jumbo fried shrimp were ok. At least they weren't too greasy. And the frigg'n \"original oyster\"... WHERE IS THE OYSTER??? Nothing but breading. I think I saw something resembling an oyster in there somewhere. And every entree had to be fried. Ugh.", "business_id": "-KQ283hJkBO12u8XOrlCcQ", "stars": 2, "date": "2011-10-18", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "inlatiGhgGU9E_gb1OcLXw", "review_id": "XLDVk_F7PVPaMAQxhIIViQ", "text": "The Original Oyster House is a restaurant I've been intending to visit for quite some time, and finally got around to trying last evening. Honestly, I was a bit underwhelmed. As you walk in, it comes across as a bit of a small, a little bit dingy, diner. I have no problem with that, I happen to love diners, but it's not what I would expect from a place I am hoping to get good seafood. The selection for beer with dinner was rather limited (but let's face it we weren't going there for beer, it's just something I noticed) The service was seriously lacking. When asking for our order, the waitress was literally on her cell phone. I could never tell if she was paying attention to us or not. \n\nI also found the set-up of the restaurant to be rather lacking. It feels very claustrophobic, and while we were sitting up at the counter, a number of people bumped into me due to the fact that there is very little room to walk around. \n\nNow, as far as the food goes, nothing was BAD, but it wasn't stellar. Nothing on the menu seemed to be \"Great\" to me. I ordered clam strips, and there was absolutely nothing special about them whatsoever. They are the same clam strips I could get anywhere else I were to ever go. There was no extra flavoring, no pizazz, nothing. Just some strips of clam fried up. Same goes for the french fries. Now, the green beans I got were of note, because they were really gross. There was no flavoring added to them whatsoever, they were just plain, boring, soggy green beans. I was very much let down.\n\nSo all in all, if you are looking for something quick and find yourself downtown, the Original Oyster House is perfectly acceptable. If you are looking for some place that makes very unique, delicious seafood meals, find something else.", "business_id": "-KQ283hJkBO12u8XOrlCcQ", "stars": 3, "date": "2011-11-26", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "U2KMguHEwk3V9O9sSz5MvA", "review_id": "o0Ndce8_0z7J61qvetj5oA", "text": "This restaurant is horrible. The waitress was rude and tried to rush us. The only oyster on the menu is a terrible patty of some kind. How can you call yourself an Oyster House and not serve either fried oysters or raw??? The food overall was ok. I would never go or eat there again!", "business_id": "-KQ283hJkBO12u8XOrlCcQ", "stars": 1, "date": "2013-10-09", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "J_q8jN623uew8ZzMChXBCA", "review_id": "o5quIyC80ai2yJnHoaQFsA", "text": "Worth the visit, if only for a slice of Pittsburgh History. The buttermilk and oyster is a tradition. I got the fish boat, and I enjoyed it very much. The food is mostly made from scratch and the french fries are delicious.\n\nIt's not fine dining, but it's honest food at a reasonable price. The restaurant dates from 1870, so it makes it the oldest business in the city.", "business_id": "-KQ283hJkBO12u8XOrlCcQ", "stars": 3, "date": "2013-10-21", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "znxd_cmsPL0gJkwpC0igkQ", "review_id": "x-OrnW08au7n32-wkVpGiA", "text": "TOURIST TRAP. I found this restaurant online and in my hotel room magazine. It had a pretty good number of reviews and apparently the first bar and restaurant in Pittsburgh so I added it to my Pittsburgh dinner options list. It turns out very few people in Pittsburgh or at least in our office actually knew this restaurant. It's an old, tiny restaurant located in the beautiful Market Square. It's so old school they only take cash! The place is called \"Original Oyster House\" but ironically they don't serve raw oysters, let alone decent oysters! They only have these mediocre breaded oysters that you can have in your sandwich or by themselves. Everything else is average. There is nothing special about this place except for the fact that it was the \"first restaurant\" in Da Burgh as supported by the front door sign \"historical landmark.\" If you're looking for good oysters, raw or not, or simply a good restaurant for lunch or dinner, this is definitely NOT the place.", "business_id": "-KQ283hJkBO12u8XOrlCcQ", "stars": 2, "date": "2013-11-25", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "qUIyE56oiCTN-Ncq8f8Tdw", "review_id": "L8K39eZ0-eaNc_pqv0cLNA", "text": "Well I went here with my friends and my 3 year old daughter for a dinner. I ordered the chicken tender platter with a side of fries and we had some calamari. With regards to food,it's so so,I've been with few different places in Pittsburgh that really serves good enough calamari. I've from the Philippines so i know what is good and what's great in terms of calamari. Our server was ok,she checked on us maybe twice,the only thing I can say is that she didn't tell us they only take cash and they don't take cards. I've never seen it somewhere stating they only take cash. I'm a card person. I probably have a buck or two in my wallet coz I use my cards for everything. I have ten credit cards and 2 debit cards in my wallet,good thing I remember my debit card pin,made a withdrawal,paid the atm fee and gave them cash. Imagine a place that's been around since forever and they don't take cards. Are u kidding me? Even mom and pop store accept cards.goodness. I am disappointed. We own a business so I can understand the merchant fees for card transactions but hey,it's part of operating a business. The food was ok but it's not memorable.", "business_id": "-KQ283hJkBO12u8XOrlCcQ", "stars": 2, "date": "2014-09-18", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "4DsJFa1QMd3NrIcxz0xNHw", "review_id": "6GVZOMUv3oJZ34Zdqsglcw", "text": "We just finished the Cajun breaded white fish it was delicious wife had French fries I had fried oysters they where great. but we wanted fried cod and she wanted calamari but they where out of both second time I have been here and where out of signature items that being said both times the item I settled for was delicious. and just in case you have not read the other reviews it's cash only. good place but not in my top favorites. but when it comes to the fish sandwich it comes in second plus reasonable prices. Not a destination stop but a great second choice.", "business_id": "-KQ283hJkBO12u8XOrlCcQ", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-10-11", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "E69Oa-bnz9WUbJaX5LE6Qg", "review_id": "ApQgMxQBu54frFXjABLJSQ", "text": "I stopped in for lunch and it was busy-- about 15-20min wait from the time I walked in till I got my order, but let me tell you, it was worth the wait. I had the oyster sandwich, clam chowder, and calamari. The oysters were very tender and I only wished the sandwich had a few more on it, cuz it wasn't very filling. Good thing I had the soup & calamari.. The clam chowder was sinfully delicious, with a heavy cream base and tons of flavor. The calamari was okay, nothing to brag about, but the sandwich and chowder couldn't have been better. \nThe oyster House is split up into two different restaurants next-door to each other.. To the right side is a sitdown restaurant with a bar and the left side is a casual quick stop shop with a counter to order at (which is where I chose to go). The interior is a bit dark & outdated and it doesn't have much of a welcoming atmosphere, but the outdoor tables in Market Square are a great option, weather permitting.", "business_id": "-KQ283hJkBO12u8XOrlCcQ", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-10-13", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "oKX-QfUJAGekWrlyxdUJJg", "review_id": "jsOFno6Wlr_AUrUiktNAZA", "text": "Being in town for business my co-worker and I decided on another trip to this eatery. It didn't disappoint us last year and this year was the same.\n It's not fancy, we sat at the bar.\n I had the Clam Strips with Onion Rings and a Bowl of Clam Chowder. My friend had the Fried Shrimp, Onion Rings and Chowder. The chowder was as good as last year. Rich, flavorful with tender clams and soft potatoes. My clams and my friends shrimp were both perfect. Downed with a Stella and you can't go wrong.\n We watch them bring out their next to largest fish sandwich and it was huge. well worth the money. I'll be having it next year with the Chowder.\n Don't miss it if you love Clam Chowder.", "business_id": "-KQ283hJkBO12u8XOrlCcQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-10-29", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "pOin_X26M5k4qWjHGrcHSA", "review_id": "rcPZEqcJx_qPghlvX2yQtA", "text": "Oyster shooters in a plastic cup. Looked a little dirty. Shooters just tasted like ketchup.", "business_id": "-KQ283hJkBO12u8XOrlCcQ", "stars": 1, "date": "2014-11-05", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "JIj7kgAm0lNuzMAY5sMSHg", "review_id": "eHj13CEgOUcN5GQUwJnJaA", "text": "This place is defiantly a historic site! From the floor to the table tops to the bathrooms! I love learning about the history of how places came about. Mary the bartender gave me lots of info.......oldest bar, 1st one to let women in, same flooring, etc. \n\nThe food is frozen so if you're looking for fresh seafood this ain't it! I had one of their famous oysters. Very good I highly recommend getting only 3 very filling. I had the special crab cakes & 2 sides. Imitation crab & lots of filling. So I don't need to tell you how nasty that was. My house made chips were good & cole slaw had very little flavor. \n\nI did notice-after I ordered-everyone was getting the fish sandwich. So I was like dang! I should've ordered that. My return is questionable. If I go back its only going be for the fish sandwich & oysters!", "business_id": "-KQ283hJkBO12u8XOrlCcQ", "stars": 2, "date": "2014-11-29", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "2_h1Hw_yLyVqSXpqFu4AeA", "review_id": "66x4og2OA6gBpaKGcpwhyA", "text": "Avoid at all costs ! The staff is rude and Ms Piggy ( as another customer referred to her as ) refused to serve our kids dessert while we had a drink at the bar. If you go you will leave disappointed ! I'm surprised they lasted a month let alone 100 years.", "business_id": "-KQ283hJkBO12u8XOrlCcQ", "stars": 1, "date": "2015-09-12", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "x7Y-MkZkr-NURToS_xRRZg", "review_id": "tGiEDKsMb2xAcIdW5ltABg", "text": "We just ate here and it was a wonderful experience! The waitress was extremely friendly, going out of her way to interact with our four-year old. This place has a neat old-city vibe and the food is really tasty. Good prices too! Our bill was $55 for 5 beers and three entrees. We will definitely be back!", "business_id": "-KQ283hJkBO12u8XOrlCcQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-09-12", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "z3yY-WOk0KMHAPLBirboiw", "review_id": "80g2YO2NGo-n6TbLN9jmdQ", "text": "My fianc\u00e9 have lived in Pittsburgh for about a year and a half and this was by far the worst food and service we've had living here. \n\nWe had high hopes for the fresh oysters. When they arrived they were served in little plastic Dixie cup shooters and were flavorless and gelatinous.\n\nMy fianc\u00e9 did like her fish sandwhich but when she told the server she gave her regular Pepsi instead of diet our server rolled her eyes and stormed off.\n\nI do not recommend this restaurant. Please support good food and service in Pittsburgh elsewhere.", "business_id": "-KQ283hJkBO12u8XOrlCcQ", "stars": 1, "date": "2015-09-25", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "8ZVVdv4b7BULK0P0n681Hw", "review_id": "q1TX47G0YxSzCWobH5SPLA", "text": "This place has been around since 1870, so that's pretty impressive alone. We walked in and sat down at the bar and an older lady that works there came up and asked if we had ever been there. We said no, so she perked up and asked if we wanted to look around and hear about the history. She showed us all of the pictures of past Miss America pageants that the previous owner went to (a lot!) and told us the history of the place. Women weren't even allowed to eat here 'til the 60s! \n\nThe clam chowder was incredibly rich and salty in the best way. As for the oysters, we ordered the \"lightly\" breaded option, which comes with three fried oysters, but ours came with four as a bonus. The batter was seasoned great, and apparently the same recipe since 1916, but if that's what they mean by \"lightly\" battered, I wonder what their heavy battered option is like. Our oysters had a very thick coating of batter so the oyster taste and texture was a little lost in it. We also had a couple clams with some sandy grit in them :/ The clam chowder was so good and the service was some of the best I've ever had, so it brought what would have been a three star rating from me up to a four.", "business_id": "-KQ283hJkBO12u8XOrlCcQ", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-10-01", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "lq1nrAfDoCXriVTCcFG6xQ", "review_id": "0n-K5PsvP05fNCpGzTiDjw", "text": "I did not enjoy this place. It reminds me of Primanti's. It may have been good / great at one point when good was a deep fried, but not anymore.\n\nThe fish sandwich is bland on a generic bun. The soup was nothing to write home about. The fries were generic.", "business_id": "-KQ283hJkBO12u8XOrlCcQ", "stars": 1, "date": "2015-10-02", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "1MZE99lC3KvvAQifgXeUHw", "review_id": "8xrKYl5FecYfLYWDAojakg", "text": "Eh. Food served on paper plates. Long wait time for initial service and drink refills. Just not what I had in mind. I won't be going back.", "business_id": "-KQ283hJkBO12u8XOrlCcQ", "stars": 2, "date": "2015-10-22", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "S0SmguzSe7aOnTJDvfEegA", "review_id": "6jkSSGuwb_iZ9xevHKxzJA", "text": "The atmosphere is charming and the service very friendly... but the cash only gimmick isn't advertised and food is ok at best, the prices are super cheap and probably a great place to grab a quick sandwich, but more like an upscale long john silvers, i would say try it out at least once, but just not for me", "business_id": "-KQ283hJkBO12u8XOrlCcQ", "stars": 2, "date": "2015-11-02", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "tAKjY3bQXH51msJbOHYPmQ", "review_id": "WOHaUAtOOTjdSig_cko6JQ", "text": "Well, as stated in the previous review of their lunch buffet, we finally went for dinner, and were horribly disappointed to discover a night-and-day comparison between the lunch and dinner. I had gnocchi, she had Veal Imperial, and we ordered 'traditional style' which meant for an addition $4 it came with marinated mushrooms, Clams Casino, soup and salad. My friend left 1/3 of her veal dish on her plate and didn't want to take it home. I took a bite, and my tongue experienced absolutely no flavor, to the extent that I had to take a sip of my iced tea to see if I was getting a cold and losing my sense of taste. I could taste the tea. I could taste absolutely NOTHING from her veal. With the gnocchi, I ordered the sausage, which was again $3 extra, and when it arrived it was a flat sausage patty cut in half, that tasted like a dry sausage McMuffin patty. The salad was basic iceberg lettuce and a few other veggies. The wedding soup had two tiny meatballs and about 1/3 cup of celery. The meal in general was a total disaster, but we ordered dessert anyway, and the tiramisu was still partially frozen. Then the bill came to over $82. \n\nWe could not believe that we'd enjoyed the lunch buffet so completely, which was only $7.95, and that this dinner, as overpriced as it already was, was so completely void of flavor and character. \n\nIt's baffling to comprehend that an Italian restaurant that's been around as long as they have would still survive with these prices and total lack of quality for dinner. We had gone in with such high hopes. But honestly, for dinner, it was such a huge let-down, we'll never go back. We'll go to the lunch buffet, but never to dinner. It was truly, truly just plain sad.", "business_id": "YTqSkgOiiI9HG3hNH7ovfg", "stars": 2, "date": "2012-09-01", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "SDlLqXn4IEtMzNwt9sV98w", "review_id": "pr3ZXlsfRUd0Lh7cKBh_cA", "text": "Best Italian comfort food buffet in Pittsburgh. The real deal. Looks like a location for a Martin Scorsese movie. They have regular menu-order items but I only go for lunch to have the buffet with its somewhat revolving dishes . The meat-balls are amazing. Chicken parm/marsala pure oral delight .\n Try it, if you haven't . *note - they raised the lunch buffet price to $10 .*", "business_id": "YTqSkgOiiI9HG3hNH7ovfg", "stars": 4, "date": "2012-09-11", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "q7MrNVt1FE23rwtWmPYWHg", "review_id": "RG8y_EzlUxJSIjs-7G5l1g", "text": "I agree with Darren's review. We came here with one of his friends from high school who is from Bloomfield not long ago. My Ginger Salmon was ok and not a whole lot more. They grill it and serve it on top of a shrimp risotto. It sounds better than it was. They also overdress their salads, and the service is choppy but friendly. I liked the decor myself. Overall, it is a very average restaurant from my POV.", "business_id": "YTqSkgOiiI9HG3hNH7ovfg", "stars": 3, "date": "2012-09-30", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "qDPHTcJ6VC2-O-aX6tjvkw", "review_id": "-6ys3ZRL-9fi2Liq05heNw", "text": "Don't waste your time!\nOh, where should I start..?\nMy family and friends came here for a Sunday lunch. The prices are crazy high (for -cheap- pasta). The menu outside the building and website doesn't match what they show you at the table. One of our guest was the last one to receive his perfectly square cheese ravioli and the filling was still frozen! (You'd think that for a $16 ravioli plate you'd get home made). After they microwaved it it was barely fit to eat. Some had flavorless Chicken Piccata, Fish and Eggplant Parmigiana. The atmosphere didn't help. The only thing with an aroma in this place was the tomato sauce. \nI don't understand the big fuzz some make about this restaurant. What a joke!", "business_id": "YTqSkgOiiI9HG3hNH7ovfg", "stars": 2, "date": "2013-09-16", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "TCIP8b47x-XzkDZ4ynmbOQ", "review_id": "WI2_amQ3AENPxw5WjitzmA", "text": "There has been a pile of vomit on there sidewalk for 10 days, For the life of me I cannot believe they havent taken care of this, such a turn off. Today is 10/3", "business_id": "YTqSkgOiiI9HG3hNH7ovfg", "stars": 1, "date": "2014-10-03", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "PToULw1lu8GAr9kPZ2zm8g", "review_id": "WoWiUsYUX_zOLZzk31EXFw", "text": "Although there are tons of dining options in the area I find myself going to this place time and time again. This is old school italian in the best way possible. From the decor to the pasta, eating here reminds me of visiting my italian grandparents.They do seafood really well and I like the soup and salad that comes dish. Other pros are- reasonable prices for wine, you can actually have a conversation here. Service is always great.", "business_id": "YTqSkgOiiI9HG3hNH7ovfg", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-10-12", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "nomiWWMKwUzFj04CEPIECA", "review_id": "8og3Bl9C7N5RqGpsymjrRw", "text": "i don't really remember the food but i definitely remember the mice (yes 2) i saw in the dining room! it was very awkward considering it was a first date. service was polite and nice but i never went back because of the above issue. this was about a year ago today, so i guess i should have rated then but just saw it on my yelp list.", "business_id": "YTqSkgOiiI9HG3hNH7ovfg", "stars": 1, "date": "2015-10-28", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "uZqIfdZvTZTudZuggUVirw", "review_id": "1MQizpV4uI4d1yDtogRWSw", "text": "Captain's Cap is a traditional southern Fish Camp. There is a broiled section on the menu, but few folks order broiled that frequent this restaurant. The seafood is fried and it is delicious. The salad bar is good and there is a decent selection. Most of the clientele are 65+ and most of the decor hasn't changed since Carter was in office.", "business_id": "W-2Tuk4uWYm5BsdlWju8wg", "stars": 3, "date": "2011-09-10", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "4522K1jh68XVpUsPh-5I7A", "review_id": "EusV-Juxj4G1m7OHysNcnw", "text": "This location is closer to home than the original on Linwood Road and I really like the food here. The staff is very friendly and I love the fact you get a salad with your meal. I love the oysters, Canadian skinless flounder and the marinated beef strips - those are some of my favorites. Their tartar sauce is excellent and yes you get to squirt it out of the container versus paying for individual cups like some places. If you love seafood like I do give it a try. Remember ..... good seafood isn't cheap and cheap seafood isn't good!", "business_id": "W-2Tuk4uWYm5BsdlWju8wg", "stars": 5, "date": "2013-10-27", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "55QC349YnkNtFG7qh1t4bQ", "review_id": "YEIzc1ebWjA2Yuu-E5qDIw", "text": "I was looking for a local seafood restaurant on a business trip and this was suggested. It's clean, the staff is very polite, service was quick and the food servings are generous.\nTheir crab cake appetizers come with three of them and they are large. They could almost be an entree on their own! The sauce they serve with it complements it nicely.\nI ordered without asking how large the Captains Sampler Platter was - it was huge. Flouder, green shrimp, stuffed oyster, hush puppies, and choice of potato. I could barely finish half! The food was all satisfactory. It wasn't bad at all, but nothing really stood out either aside from the portion sizes.\nThe atmosphere is maybe a bit disappointing. It's a large seating area with very open space, but you do have to navigate your way around a bit otherwise you'll hit a dead-end. They clearly appeal to seniors - a large section of their menu is priced specifically for them. It makes for a quiet dining experience, but more dull than calm (which may not be a bad thing, depending on what you're in the mood for). \nAll that said, I think 3 stars is appropriate. Everything was good, but the only thing that really stood out was the serving sizes. I may go back again, but I'm more inclined to explore other places.", "business_id": "W-2Tuk4uWYm5BsdlWju8wg", "stars": 3, "date": "2015-11-17", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "HRFD2ca4_TPSGSqekJaomg", "review_id": "TIzeIMXNerpW048H44yPhA", "text": "Now I love red lobster but this particular location pissssssed me off!!! It was packed as usual so the food took extra long. the waitress screwed up my bill at the end of the meal, when they seated us it looked like the booth had not been properly cleaned, and the bathroom was just the nastiest bathroom in America. Like i said i understand it was busy but that is no excuse for how gross the bathroom was. i almost threw up from the smell and you could just tell that it probably had not been cleaned all day. I believe when you are an establishment with meals over $10 your bathroom should be spotless. This is something you would expect from burger king or somewhere, not red lobster. I know red lobster is not a 5 star restaurant but come on.", "business_id": "BO0zz8gort7o-6KuecIv3Q", "stars": 2, "date": "2010-10-03", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "PM2jXrlVzik1jDwwahLJJQ", "review_id": "tUPQXWcP-ZFI5JRjp_3IAg", "text": "We had a wonderful time!\n\n We were seated right away and our waiter Jay was friendly and very helpful. We all decided to have the Endless Shrimp. Endless amounts of several different types of shrimp with either a house or Cesar salad and those delicious biscuits!!!! Yummy!\n\nMy favorite type was the Parmesan Shrimp. They were very similar to the shrimp scampi, which is another personal favorite but with a delicious cheesy breading....then they are baked again and come out hot and overflowing with cheese. Soooo good!\n\nHowever, all the other options were great too. We also enjoyed the shrimp pasta which was full of flavor, the fried shrimp that were crispy and the glaze on the Teriyaki Grilled Shrimp was so tasty! \n\nOur food came out hot and it was really endless....we were stuffed and happy when we left so overall that means it was a great meal and I look forward to going back!", "business_id": "BO0zz8gort7o-6KuecIv3Q", "stars": 4, "date": "2012-10-20", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "8BaF--AzgXX6aAUspufopw", "review_id": "mxjvNlNnNt7vzFX-VoSCLA", "text": "The lobster tail was salty. The crab legs were alright. The shrimp was awesome. The asparagus was amazing. All in all it was eh.", "business_id": "BO0zz8gort7o-6KuecIv3Q", "stars": 2, "date": "2014-09-24", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "WG2xO5JKpmoILmebttYj_Q", "review_id": "KtPgj7WYmH-BJeJMowpOvA", "text": "I had my parents over for the weekend and my parents are like most and they are fairly weird. This time the weird discussion revolves around my father and his love of eating establishments in particular Red Lobster. I must admit I was biased and am one of those persons that considers Red Lobster the McDonalds of seafood so this would typically not be a place I would visit to eat. \n\nSurprisingly this visit was very good. I have a few horror stories of other Red Lobster's but this one end with everyone smiling and cheering. We drove to this restaurant in separate vehicles and the first thing I noticed is how far the handicap parking spaces are from the entrance. My parents park in those spaces and it was a hike for them to make it to the front door. I guess they want handicapped parking folks to get the most exercise to build up for the meal. I am not sure of the planning or thoughts they have on parking. I am just thankful it was a beautiful day. \n\nEntering the restaurant and all the employees were kind and smiling. They sat us all within about 15 minutes. My father ordered his usual admiral feast, I had a lobster pizza (watching calories). Wife had a pasta dish, my mother had the stuffed founder and my kids had fries. \n\nIt was all delicious! Cooked to perfection and served timely. My father even went out of his way to say this was they best one he has been to in a long time. \n\n\n\nThe bill was $101 and that's not bad for 6 people eating. \n\nI recommend this location.", "business_id": "BO0zz8gort7o-6KuecIv3Q", "stars": 3, "date": "2014-10-12", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "EmpkDgejncKoP9N3HjGptw", "review_id": "I8UbVWhcyLpkajOUXbX4Hw", "text": "this is just high priced captain D's. they quality has gone downhill over the past decade now I remember WHY I don't eat here.", "business_id": "BO0zz8gort7o-6KuecIv3Q", "stars": 3, "date": "2014-11-10", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "B1eq_XDFiVodOL9is4iQyQ", "review_id": "p9Zrgr42-IXNYjhrq5cS4g", "text": "Today I was feeling down and went shopping for some retail therapy on my way home stopped at Red lobster to pick up an order to go. I sat at the bar to place my order and was greeted by one of the most helpful, kind and courteous servers I've ever encountered. I only wish I got his name, on the ticket it says Miles C., his kindness brightened my day. Thank you!", "business_id": "BO0zz8gort7o-6KuecIv3Q", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-09-20", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "EfDdW7tEJufsBfuxJgszHQ", "review_id": "f8x8xpJUMF5N7TKOnw7Qpg", "text": "These 4 stars are for Dana the bartender & the two appetizers that I had. The calamari & stuffed mushrooms were hot & fresh. No complaints there. \n\nDana made me the BEST long island iced tea I've ever had & I've had more than quite a few. She made me feel very welcomed & took good care of me. I will definitely be going back.", "business_id": "BO0zz8gort7o-6KuecIv3Q", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-09-22", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "xrPtS7uo5r_VJB5g3pDzTg", "review_id": "3tvm1e1dEY0yykZtnkzyOg", "text": "I did give this 4 stars, but I'm updating my review after a recent visit. The service is SLOW! We came here twice before on a Sunday. There is no waiting and we got seated right away. Thinking since they weren't so packed, that the service would be better. Not. Every time we have came here when they are busy service has been great, but when they are slow they ARE slow. Maybe not enough motivation for the staff? Don't know what's up.... However cheddar bay biscuits make life better :-)\n\n--------\nOriginal review posted September 2015 \n\nMy husband and I came here last night for all you can eat shrimp around 6:30pm. The wait for 2 was an hour n a half long so we decided to eat at the bar (no matter what time, this location always has a wait). I usually don't like eating at the bar, but our bartenders were awesome! Before we even ordered we were given the cheesy bay biscuits and waters. Score! We both ordered the all you can eat shrimp and our order came out in less than 15 minutes. We were also provided drink refills no questions asked, which was great because I hate when you sit there with an empty glass and they don't refill it without you asking. \n\nIn addition, there were 2 other couples next to us enjoying all you can eat shrimp. Eventually the bartenders caught on and starting bringing out shrimp by the dozen. Without even ordering another round they would present different shrimp options to us. It truly was all you can eat shrimp!!! It started to become humorous because at one point they brought out more shrimp, but we were all so full and no one wanted it. Needless to say we left full and with boxes of extra shrimp to take home. \n\nThe only reason why I gave this 4 stars over 5 is because we did have slow service once in the dining room, but the food was delicious so no complaints from the food category.", "business_id": "BO0zz8gort7o-6KuecIv3Q", "stars": 3, "date": "2015-09-27", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "fNWjds1V5AbSog2h3p_zbA", "review_id": "aZa27kH03OgNL-dQh5cGog", "text": "Charlotte location is closed for business. I went there tonight without thinking to check their actual website to see what locations are open.", "business_id": "U_RvpPJNn24oWJo07x2j7w", "stars": 1, "date": "2015-09-29", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "00pwvsiP3pYRwHtmuR9x8Q", "review_id": "vEgDZV6UjdND6eQD_0lm7A", "text": "Does the job for quick and fast, fresh teriyaki lunch box. Downtown Charlotte.", "business_id": "QMX1ssofSveU3qhVAKLnXA", "stars": 3, "date": "2013-09-15", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "qhYxHjeIhtdOgaXebGwp4Q", "review_id": "wtI1Jm02Od-c2H9ns8LnXA", "text": "Headed over during lunch time for their lunch special. Easily the best price for the food you get. Looks like only one lady was working so it took a bit of time, which is nbd, but if you're in a hurry be prepared to wait it out. Beef and chicken teriyaki was really good. I'll be back", "business_id": "QMX1ssofSveU3qhVAKLnXA", "stars": 4, "date": "2013-11-20", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "_reGn3AGRxCpGA1HiolMhQ", "review_id": "fW2leZl9nYN_qwKfrFx_Sw", "text": "Located in the Latta Arcade, Fujiyama Japanese Restaurant offers a limited menu. But do you really need more choices? The Mrs. prefers the teriyaki veggie rice with extra rice. Yum!\nWhether you phone ahead or order in person, this Japanese take-out place offers quickly-prepared, abundant food for a decent price. They have been in this location for at least a couple of decades and are still popular.\nThe Mrs. recommends Fujiyama.\n.", "business_id": "QMX1ssofSveU3qhVAKLnXA", "stars": 4, "date": "2013-11-29", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "X36p3mD4oqBE53sASc_Ykw", "review_id": "zi2OR1Hjpkl2gYetyV-3IQ", "text": "Solid lunch spot, with tasty food, made fresh to order. I got the Combo Beef and Chicken, and it comes with plain white rice and a kind of weird salad concoction, like half Iceberg lettuce and half cole slaw, with a semi-sweet dressing. Not the biggest portions ever served but satisfying enough. Decent flavors but not really comparable to othe Uptown Asian places as this is more of a \"Mom and Pops\" place which I do like. The Asian lady behind the counter is a one woman show, as she takes the orders and cooks right in front of you. It's all take out but I guess you could eat at the small counter they do have.\n\nI read other reviews speaking of fried rice....well I wasn't given that option, and I definitely would have opted for that. The menu is extremely limited....makes sense since the Asian \"wonder woman\" does it all back there. But egg rolls would be nice.\n\nAll in all a decent lunch option in Uptown.", "business_id": "QMX1ssofSveU3qhVAKLnXA", "stars": 3, "date": "2014-10-28", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "ytxqyAM8f46YVrGLr2BMKg", "review_id": "5ZCK4oHqgTRaxPK1iYhq6A", "text": "Been fortunate enough to walk here from time to time and have sampled most of their dishes including their staple, teryaki chicken hibachi and the new menu addition, bibbymap. The dishes come with white rice and a basic salad with some light vinagrette dressing. The food is good, not great.\n\nThe service is also good, and the nice lady that works there springs into action the moment she's called upon. The other factor making this place a good option for lunch is it's location right in Latta Arcade. \n\nFood is good, service is good, location, also good - but 4 stars good? no. Not at all. The reason it does in fact get 4 stars is because of the value. For less than $7 per lunch, you're walking out of there with a good experience, good food, and it happens fast. \n\nI'd love to see some occassional seasonal or straight up menu changes from time to time, but pretty much every little food joint in Latta is limited to what they can actually offer. It is what it is - if you want a decent value hibachi for less than $7, that's the spot. Don't expect to struggle with menu decisions.", "business_id": "QMX1ssofSveU3qhVAKLnXA", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-11-07", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "RxU2EOtHFNe6EX9T8z8VUA", "review_id": "t42cWOLHpKZ74j-XLWt2nQ", "text": "Ooh La La, Capital Grille is the most Ritzy and detail oriented restaurant in Charlotte, to help you understand what I mean allow me to tell a little story: It was my Girlfriend's Birthday and I wanted to make a good impression on her, so I decided to take her to Capital grille in Uptown Charlotte. I called and made reservations, they were very nice and completely accommodating over the phone. We arrive on time for our reservations and we are greeted by the hostess who is the first to tell my girlfriend Happy Birthday, everyone inn the restaurant from the servers to the bus boys said hello to us and wished my girl a happy birthday. When we arrived at the table it was covered in a very classy looking glitter and decorations specifically yfor the occasion. They made us feel like movie stars, and she thought I was amazing because I had set all this up, but really it was all Capital Grille. So right away the service has set the scene for us to have an excellent night.\n\nThen came the food, we started with a round of gin and tonics, good, and a crab cake appetizer which was amazing, chunks of perfectly seasoned crab meat, and just enough to wet our appetites for the main course. She ordered the fillet Mignon, and I got the porterhouse. It was spectacular. The meat is aged in a glassed in room, which you can see when you first walk in, and tastes incredibly rich, with many layers of flavor, from the smoked grilled aspect to the texture of the aged beef, ummm, I even took the bone home and gnawed on it the next day, it was that good. The mashed potatoes were really good too.\n\nCapital grille is perfect for special occasions, a little pricey, but when you're celebrating, this is the place to go all out.", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2007-09-30", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "kxRnhpUgooticN9DimR-CQ", "review_id": "q-MSaxqRuiLHjZdj0YKhDQ", "text": "I really don't understand some of the negative reviews for this place. It seems like they were looking for a different experience. Make no mistake, this is an expensive highend steakhouse. Go for a good cut of meat and the best calimari in town, hands down. Regarding someones comment about not ordering anything above medium-rare, i disagree...I get ribeyes medium all the time.", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2008-11-04", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "kDYpTc-yc8UAxCs_LhX1yA", "review_id": "1Qxq73kU2M8qd6u9m1jp3g", "text": "I came here the other day for a charity fundraiser, and wasn't too overly impressed. I mean, it's pretty much the same as any Capital Grille (if you've been to one before), although this location has a pretty great set-up: it's right in the middle of Uptown, with a great outdoor area. So that part's pretty great, actually. The interior is really nice, as you'd expect: lots of wood and dark colors in this stuffy, typical steakhouse setting. \n\nIn any event, we spent most of our time in the bar area, which under normal circumstance would've been cool: it's a large, open space with nice seating areas around it. The bar itself is well-stocked and the bartenders are pretty bad-ass. Again, you'd expect this much from a fancy steakhouse. When we were there it was incredibly packed; you couldn't move. And the clientele was pretty lame, but I guess that's what you'd expect. \n\nThe drink and wine selection here is amazing, though, and the appetizers were pretty darn tasty as well. As for the food, well, it's awesome--but you'll be paying a pretty heavy price to get some.", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 3, "date": "2008-11-14", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "o4rhsNj1X8pynIX-zVJeqw", "review_id": "OQhIw1T8eqnWpQkyYzJAwg", "text": "Last week I was in Charlotte on business and a colleague and I chose the Capital Grille for our after work dinner location. As we approached the spot it was very quiet outside so we weren't sure if this was going to work out, but as soon as we stepped inside the energy hit us. The service was very prompt, friendly, and professional. I ordered the Cajun rubbed Delmonico steak and it was wonderful. Sauteed mushrooms as a side and a 2005 Cakebread Cabernet completed the meal. Since the place was unknown to us the unexpected pleasant surprise of the place added to the overall experience.", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2008-11-24", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "VxipxwfGDCwMr1d53EdUnw", "review_id": "mxoGmY548DDVnoMzjWdC4w", "text": "Fine dining and elegant decor without the pretentious attitude. Great happy hour bar with the famous \"Paul\" bartending since 2004'. Ask for a Stoli Doli Pineapple Martini and you will not regret it. The Porcini Delmonico Steak and Lobster Mac n Cheese rule!!", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2010-09-02", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "iBmy7fYcirpA8d94EhX5RA", "review_id": "DgFYTGu5kseqXalzCXGtcg", "text": "Mozzarella, tomato and prosciutto appetizer was light and tasty, a perfect precursor to a good, juicy steak. My sliced filet served on a bed of mushrooms and caramelized onions in a sumptuous jus was very tasty. I'll be looking out for Restaurant Week deals like many others here.", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 4, "date": "2010-09-07", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "sfrumTeq5CyNSOCF3o7UCg", "review_id": "grVdKacTbtb7719yzq85Bw", "text": "Review for drinks only\n\nStopped in on Saturday before dinner across the street. Was sort of taken aback by 2 customers seated on the patio. Both guys had on sports jerseys, jean shorts, or jorts if you will, and were seriously blinged out. Just seemed so out of place with everyone around them. \n\nWe sat at a table in the bar area and the bartender came over with some cocktail menus and got us all waters right away. I had the grapefruit buck and it was sooo delicious and refreshing. I believe it was gin, campari, ruby red grapefruit juice and maybe something else, served w/a grapefruit slice. I loved it. Tried someone else's drink and wasn't a fan so was def happy with my choice.\n\nHad to run to make our reservation so it was just the one round. Wasn't cheap for 3 cocktails and a beer it was $46 I believe. But it was a nice atmoshpere and we saw they are running for prix fixe in October so we might stop in for dinner before Chelsea Handler at TW.", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 4, "date": "2010-09-07", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "ctXZwLnGALfazigC5e-zxg", "review_id": "Ddy0Sv1L_0Uh2w3dschkrQ", "text": "This place was ok, not good, not bad, but ok.For the price it should have been kick-ass. \n\nI went here couple weeks ago with a friend and while the service was attentive it was borderline annoying.I can get my own calamari, you don't need to serve me when you don't have gloved hands. Ugh just let me do it please? If I dont eat everything, Its not that the food inst good its just i will finish eating and stop eating. If my friend and I haven't eaten anything in 5 mins it means WERE DONE. thanks\n\nThe food was fine. Its nothing I haven't seen anywhere else. For an appetizer we had the pan-fried calamari. It was okay, the wrapped lemon was a cute touch but i mean honesty the calamari was too battered and not crisp enough. For an entree I had the Sushi grade tuna. It was cooked perfectly. THe sauces were fun but not one that i completely loved. I had a side of assperagus and it was amazing. I always seem to get the overcooked asperagus but this time they were perfect and served with hollandaise. \n\nI dont think for the price I would come back. Not worth it but I guess this place is perfect for those who wanna flaunt money", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 3, "date": "2010-10-11", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 3, "cool": 2}, "user_id": "sfrumTeq5CyNSOCF3o7UCg", "review_id": "mey5bauVnCvSGnxY0LHXUw", "text": "Stopped in for a quick drink after An Evening with David Sedaris and I wanted something sweet so I planned on getting dessert. I had the grapefruit buck to drink again, its so yummy! The bartender told me the cheesecake or chocolate hazelnut cake were the best options and I was craving chocolate so I went with the latter. Umm I should have taken a pic, this \"piece\" of cake was as big as my head!! I knew I wouldn't finish it but I got my chocolate fix and pushed it aside. It was good but I could have done w/o the hazelnut in this case.\n\nBartender was very nice, but I found it odd she kept calling me dear, considering she looked to be around the same age as me it seemed strange!", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 4, "date": "2010-10-19", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 3, "useful": 4, "cool": 3}, "user_id": "rHn27p-e0g6aqAZDwkWVVw", "review_id": "Ttd4f2jV9AlNd9cajoNyyQ", "text": "This is our favorite place to go for a special occasion! Start out with a Pineapple Stoli Doli Martini, 2 of these and you will be feeling right! Then for apps we always get the calamari and shrimp cocktail, you would think shrimp cocktail is played out and boring but they are HUGE shrimp with an awesome spicy cocktail sauce. I always get the crab stuffed lobster and we split sides..I've had all before and love them all. Mashed potatoes, asparagus, creamed spinach, but if you never come here you HAVE to try the lobster mac and cheese. To.Die.For. Then finish off with a desert that I will usually take home and eat some later once my food has digested a little, a huge piece of chocolate cake or my favorite, their rich and delicious cheesecake with berries. It is always a lot of food but we love to splurge on special occasions. Birthdays are fun too because they will have your table decorated in fun confetti and always make you feel special. Fun night out!", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 4, "date": "2010-11-04", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "TAUwinC-falXkhfPta37cA", "review_id": "cGT-8ElIDrLIg0dLraQoEQ", "text": "Went to this restaurant for my girlfriends bday. they definitely exceeded my expectation. service was excellent. they ushered us to a booth with the table decorated. then they sat us down and put roses and 2 glasses of champagne for us. took a picture of us and put it on a card. i was taken back. now onto the food. \nWagyu Carpachio - awesome. thinly sliced and generous portions\nLobster Bisque - lots of lobster in the soup. not as creamy as most would have it. ++ for me\nShrimp Cocktail - got 5 shrimps. and they were big shrimps. very fresh and juicy.\nSesame crusted Ahi Tuna. if you dont like sushi, dont try it. difficult to cook. tasted a little bland to me IMO. \nPorterhouse_ excellent cut. nothing else needed on top of the steak. cooked perfectly. \n\nNight ended with a complimentary chocolate cake. awesome cake!. \nThank you Capital Grille!", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 4, "date": "2011-09-17", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 3, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "s9I4KMcrHKki44g_eTrYqQ", "review_id": "A8Uh714cBJ535_IZKKYvVw", "text": "As a corporate chain upscale steakhouse, this place does not jump to the top of my list for romantic dinner spots. However, it is most definitely a great place for a business lunch or dinner.\n \nSince I am not a meat-eater, I can't comment on the steaks, but I've had their seared salmon and the seared tuna on separate occasions. Both were expertly prepared.\n \nI have been here for a private party as well and the service on each visit has been very good.", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 4, "date": "2011-10-04", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "P2Vf2lXjOIQ14zB8Q87SMw", "review_id": "JB5u5I-qXHceD7S1-LWyDA", "text": "I went to Capital Grille with a friend for dinner, when making a reservation I asked the dress code and was told \"evening casual.\" So we dressed appropriately, but we were seated next to a large group of people wearing jean shorts and jerseys. I'm not trying to be a snob, but if a place has a dress code why is it not enforced? This group also continued to carry on vulgar conversation (f-this, f-that). If I wanted to hear that I would be at the NASCAR store, not an Uptown restaurant. I should have requested a different table, but that group departed soon after and I left it alone.\n\nThe service was 5-stars. Our waitress attended to our every need and we had a delightful dinner, absolutely top notch. The food was a bit disappointing. The steaks were cooked perfectly to order, but they were nothing special. They were not particularly tender or seasoned with anything I could taste. The sides were fantastic. I don't know if we just went on an off night, but for the prices they were charging the meat fell far short. If not for that, I would give the place 5 stars.", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 3, "date": "2011-10-13", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "ts7EG6Zv2zdMDg29nyqGfA", "review_id": "0aEqlugYL1w2q1CHyT50HA", "text": "Old school steaks, manly interiors accompied with some of the best table side service you'll see in Charlotte. That's what keeps me coming back to Capital Grille. Aside from Beef and Bottle on South Blvd., Capital Grille is one of the first upscale steak places that Charlotte had. It's been here longer than Mortons, Ruth Chris or Palm, etc. So in some ways I feel like the other's are just riding coat tails in Charlotte. Of course, it is a chain so with that being said I'm sure this isn't the original one.\n\nThe filet oscar and lobster mac 'n cheese are simply put \"my last meal on earth\". Through in a nice red glass of vino to wash it down and that equals instant smile for this guy!", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-10-13", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "SPjUSABr1V0ilgo0qn2QOw", "review_id": "kZEUEpOSSmYtI5VkCpOiOQ", "text": "Great service and wines. Best calamari in town", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-10-14", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "jAMV3qHly-HJHf6e-PpXjg", "review_id": "Qzmdzk_C45nTgDoaPZHhwA", "text": "For a change, I was the guest and not the one picking up tab. I'll have to try that more often. The sales rep from a film production supply house smoothly lied and said Channel 70 Productions was his favorite customers (I am a real pain because I demand perfect service and a high level of competence from my vendors) and offered to buy dinner and I accepted since his offer included the Capital Grille.\nRight away I noticed people actually dressed for dinner. I like that and it gave me a chance to wear the Countess Mara tie my wife had given me the previous week. Yeah, I know it's name dropping, but both my wife and the tie deserve the credit. I'm one of the few men on the planet who enjoys receiving ties as gifts. The tables were too close together for my liking and it was easy to overhear the conversations of others. Perhaps they were just talking loudly.\n I ordered the Delmonico with no seasonings. I always order steaks minus seasoning. If a steak needs that kind of help, then the steak isn't much to begin with. The steak was great. One of the best steaks I've had in awhile. Service was movie perfect.\nIf your wallet can stand the heat, dine at the Capital Grille on your next trip to Charlotte.", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 4, "date": "2011-11-02", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "-S-QKLMFEu8cir0RAp8HVw", "review_id": "ZPkrzW6Wavx_kj12DJpYDg", "text": "Really exceptional restaurant. Great service and michelin star quality food.\n\nGood steaks are expected from a quality steak house, so it's hard to break the standard and really impress me. Their dry-aged steaks are phenomenal. Just for yukks, I used my fork to cut the last half of my steak, and it cut like butter!\n\nGotta reiterate how great the service was. Really top notch professionals - not once did I have to look around for a server when I wanted something. THey anticipated without \"hovering.\" I hate hoverers more than I hate servers who ignore you. There is a fine balance, and Capital Grille hits it squarely.\n\nAgain on the service - they were very busy, but it didn't seem like it because they were so unflappable.", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2012-09-10", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "_d7JPhUHOhEYXwBVvifpHQ", "review_id": "bClKH02LQuf0Q9zZ2jqRJQ", "text": "I have been to the Capital Grille the past 3 years for my birthday. They know this so I get a call every year inviting me back and who am I to say no? From the minute you walk into the restaurant to the time you leave it's like they put these rose colored glasses on you and all you see is the awesome atmosphere, service, and food.\nWe received 2 complimentary glasses of champagne, and prosciutto wrapped arracini to start us off. Lobster & Crab Cakes for sweetie and a tomato mozzarella salad for me. The tomatoes were cut thick and were complimented by sweet cherry tomatoes and a 12 year aged balsamic. All very well done. I admit that I did make a mistake. I wanted to save room for dessert, so I usually order the porcini rubbed delmonico, but I figured a bone in steak was a bit much. I ordered the 10 Oz Fillet instead and it was served with 2 large shrimp stuffed with lump crabmeat. The fillet was cooked nicely and the shrimp were prepared to my satisfaction, I just prefer a ribeye, so looking back I should order what I like and have the mindset to take home what I can't finish. Now, onto the side dishes...the Lobster Mac N Cheese is like heaven on a plate, I don't know or do I particularly care how much butter they add to it, but it is nothing short of spectacular. Creamed Spinach is also awesome. Cheesecake for dessert was like it came out of a magazine. I think someone told me that their Head Chef was a pastry chef in his past life which leads me to believe that their cheesecake at this location is better than most.\nThe service at the Capital Grille is top notch. They take such good care of you and make you feel like you're the only customer. I will continue to go back for this reason and encourage everyone to do the same.\n\nSee you soon Guys!", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 4, "date": "2012-09-29", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "HGF0nzrPHL_Z62sH4urO2w", "review_id": "AG3p3w7oDZGhddrTor5d8Q", "text": "This place is classy .. Ambiance is good .. Service is good too ..\nI'm not a wine person .. But if you are it's good ..\nFood -- quantity is good .. I tried calamari .. Which was good.\nTrio miniature ice cream - ice cream was good , but the cookies served with that was not good .. I kinda of dint like the way they served water .. \nBut overall this place is ok . I don't want to go back again .", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 3, "date": "2012-10-01", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 2, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "MXfDcggWGrUHvNc7Jh5JVw", "review_id": "kPe0x2pBQtRUHffxrPt0NQ", "text": "The ambiance is deliciously dark and a throwback to the grand old days of quality tablecloths and real silverware.\nThe service here was very sub-par. Perhaps that was because I was dressed like an ignorant tourist that just wanted to be comfortable checking out the city---FYI--tourists have money to spend, too...\nI hate the fact that most upscale steak restaurants ignores the needs of patrons who want to watch their waistline.\nMy husband likes steak, BUT--- I want to eat healthy. So, how about some healthy options, Capital? \nI had to special order my salad and take off a bunch of junk. There entree-sized salad was fit for a mouse that had already eaten...I left hungry! Ugh.\nPlus---my special order came out wrong and I had to (once again) watch my husband eat while I fantasized about how many carbs were in the napkin...\nOh, I won't be coming back. There are too many other great places to spend my well-earned money on.", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 2, "date": "2012-10-08", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "s-oxYSQMp7GM2IXpn0uCqg", "review_id": "24AD5Mr2FD6DQn52Sn9jaw", "text": "OK, so I Yelp on a curve.\n\nMy expectations of quality, technique, ambiance, flavor, service, seasoning, skill, knowledge, presentation and value are directly proportionate to the dollars spent and the locality in which it is enjoyed. \n\nI can not apply the same degree of criticism at Torchy's for $10 as I do at Per Se for $500 ... although they both deserve 5 stars based on the above criteria.\n\nThis brings me to The Capital Grille in Charlotte.... \n\nDesign and decor get high ratings for the old school, old boys steak house feel. However more modern interpretations like Houston's/Hillstone or J.Alexander's score higher and feel better. \n\nThe service was knowledgeable, but rushed, and not attentive.Not bad in any way but not what I would expect from a place that seems so polished, pretentious and more importantly so expensive. Lets just say I have had much better service for half the price... ( recently Acme in Chapel Hill but I have yet to get to that review)\n\nFood ... OK $40 an entree ala carte, $10 sides, those are NYC, LA, SF prices. I expect it to be of comparable quality...... Sadly it was not. \n\nThe menu list \"daily seafood feature\", when I asked it was, I was told filet(beef) medallions with scallops .... sorry Chef .... that may feature seafood, but it is not a \"seafood feature\" ! \n\nBetween the 2 of us we had - \n\nCedar Plank salmon, slightly over cooked, vastly under seasoned ( my better half rarely salts anything she did this)\n\nBone in NY ordered mid-rare, received very much on the rare side, slightly cold, flavor was good, but undercooked and served with a slightly roasted shallot that was still crunchy (not cooked enough), not the sweet, soft, unctuousness that it could have been.\n\nPotato gratin ( $10) needed an extra 15 min. in the oven, the potatoes were not cooked through... and there was a very very strong raw garlic flavor, AND there was plastic wrap inside ! .. In fairness I understand this happens occasionally and it and the dessert were comped, however I see a trend of sloppiness with the food that should not be happening at this price point.\n\nGrilled Asparagus ($10) it was ok ... but just ok. \n\nDessert creme brule, ......nothing special... thin not very crisp carmel, made worse by too many wet berries, and a strawberry fan garnish which even in the darkly lit dining room (as opposed to the kitchen) I could see was past its prime.\n\nit was a $50 dinner for more than $150, so I think that \n\n\"Meh. I've experienced better\" sums it up ............ 2 stars", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 2, "date": "2012-10-26", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "t2CJ8v_BvhxrC291ZWnRSg", "review_id": "PzH7GJpohctvFjpgbPAVcA", "text": "No matter where you are, you can always depend on a capital grille to be top notch in every aspect. Came here on a trip to Charlotte, and just like every other capital grille experience, it was pretty much perfect. \n\nI had a card for a free appetizer from a capital grille in Philly, so I was able to to use it at the Charlotte location for a free appetizer. I ordered the calamari and as always it was delicious. In addition to this they give you a plate full of freshly made potato chips that are delicious. Between both of these it made for a perfect happy hour along with their awesome rum selection.\n\nThe service at this location was extra good being that there was a hint of southern hospitality added to an already great service experience. The bartender was quick, attentive and kept the drink glass full after seeing I was getting low. Great experience and I look forward to visiting the next Cap Grille in a different city.", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2012-10-28", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "MPTi-kZyk1IxmRnS4L5a1w", "review_id": "bo2ntRIUh02Qp7MrL0E4Bw", "text": "Really fantastic steaks and a lively upscale crowd make this downtown old school style steakhouse a winner. It's a meat lover's paradise and often has a bustling bar with upscale business people drinking $14 martinis and lots of talkative business crowds in the dining room. The decor is intentionally stuffy (old men oil paintings), but the superb service and lively tables drinking vino & laughing make it a winner. Perfect for Platinum Cards and big per diems. Great wines! (It's a close second to Fleming's for Steaks and sides, however, this place has a much more lively bar and dining room.)", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2012-10-29", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "dPDVD3NN1kLuZycn5Zcsgg", "review_id": "OIQWaXqaDws6J5yQY4rUHg", "text": "The Capital Grille in downtown Charlotte is an excellent restaurant with fine service, welcoming people, and great food. Just be ready to pay the piper when you leave!\n\nAmbiance: This place is a fine establishment, which you notice walking in. They greet you warmly, take your coat, and do the right things when you enter.\n\nThe restaurant was quite busy, and noisy as well. We were fortunate having a large group, so we were seated in a dining area where we could close a set of doors. This helped tremendously!\n\nWine choices are plentiful, they did a fine job with mixed drinks and everyone was pleased with the drinks.\n\nFood was also excellent. We had several appetizers and they were all good to excellent. I really enjoyed the Prosciutto Wrapped Mozzarella with Vine Ripe Tomatoes. Slightly crispy, and delicious.\n\nFor the main, I chose the 10 oz. filet, which came perfectly prepared. The pumpkin cheesecake for dessert was very nice, but a little too sweet I think.\n\nOverall, the meal for our group was excellent. The price for this meal was over our normal expectations, even for Charlotte. It was the only slight disappointment in our group's evening.", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 4, "date": "2012-11-18", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "9YtmFrNPIgl_0C5-5IMdFQ", "review_id": "4EOihnimEiUOW5w8Pey8Vw", "text": "Its a WOW.....from the moment you open the door, its a pleasant experience. The decor, the lighting, the way the restaurant is set up, sets the expectation of a fine dining experience. The Servers introduced themselves, acknowledging you by name. Everything is explained , care and attention is paid to every detail. Wine and cocktails were excellent, as well as the appetizers. Soup was out of this world with huge lumps of lobster in it! Main course was served with care and inquiries as to if they were exactly as we ordered. Our steaks were cooked exactly as requested and could be cut with your fork. Outstanding cuts of meat. The sides were huge and the lobster mac and cheese was outstanding. Desserts were excellent and again huge portions.\n We had so much food that we needed to take a fair amount home. Which is unusual for us. The servers took the remaining food, boxed them up in cute boxes, wrote exactly what was in each box and sealed them to prevent spills. They were packed into large bags! The servers in subtle ways, did everything needed before we asked, before we needed it and made it a worry free, no stress dining experience. Yes we will be back!", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2013-09-06", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "NESzjLpjWixicUlFd5Oxtw", "review_id": "k0ZMRUSNFUpWu9aTXf4Zxg", "text": "Went for friend's birthday, my first time. The service was amazing, they went above and beyond to ensure we had an amazing dining experience. They brought out a bread basket to start, I highly reccomend the bread with the carmelized onions on top. We both ordered the current special of Waygu burger and glass of wine for $25 (we chose the Silver Oak Cab) served with parm. truffle fries. Burger was juicy and very flavorful.. served on a perfectly toasted bun with an overeasy egg and soft butter lettuce. We got a side of their dijion mustard and it was a perfect compliment to the burger. No need for ketchup for the burger or fries for sure. Dessert was a flourless espresso chocolate cake (friend loved it, I dont 'do' coffee) and a 'not-NY style' (as the server put it) cheesecake with a brulee top served with fresh berries. The food and the service made dining here an 'experience'... the price point is on the higher side (IMO!) so if you would normally not spend that for dinner I would definately reccomend for a special occasion... it will be my go-to spot for birthdays for sure!", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 4, "date": "2013-09-18", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 5, "cool": 3}, "user_id": "tEihvQHQgjpXwn8kGU3tvg", "review_id": "K-8fJOiCKhFsxw2tucrrCw", "text": "I had dinner this past Sunday night at the Capital Grill. Let me first state that I was dining solo and was wearing a baseball hat, jeans and cowboy boots. When I entered, the hostess asked me if I preferred sitting in the bar area. Given what I was wearing and since I was alone, that made perfect sense to me. I sat at the bar and Richard was my waiter. I had an absolutely different experience with Richard than was described in a recent post. He...and the food...made my visit memorable.\n\nLet me first say that Richard had to have been one of the most professional, yet congenial, waiters/servers that I have encountered in a long time. He had the perfect mixture of banter with me---while waiting for food--- while allowing me to have quality time with my food when it came.\n\nI do not like onions and indicated that to Richard. He then said that he was going to change some of the bread with my meal as it contained onions. Nice touch! A few minutes later someone from the kitchen came over and asked me if I was allergic to onions (which I am not). I make it a habit to let servers know of my distaste for onions, when appropriate. Never have I been asked before if I were allergic to onions. I truly appreciate the C.G. staff for going out of their way to cater to me like they did.\n\nRichard also steered me well with food choices. On my own, I NEVER would have thought of ordering mashed potatoes at a restaurant of the caliber of C.G. Richard suggested that I have that as a side. I agreed and am so glad I did. The best word to describe them was \"sublime.\" My main dish, salmon, was equally superb. My only disappointment in the whole meal was that I had two beers which helped fill me up. Alas, there was no room for dessert.\n\nAre C.G.'s price ridiculously high? Absolutely!\n\nIs the food at C.G. ridiculously good? Absolutely!\n\nDid Richard help make my visit spectacular? Absolutely!\n\nWill I visit C.G. again? Absolutely.", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2013-10-02", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "1gsvxYtGq6SKPn9qXMjfCw", "review_id": "w2ag8BY5OnNVyBM8-rN0lw", "text": "I went there this past Saturday night in a party of seven that included two kids (12 and 14). I did not know that they had valet parking as that would have been very useful on a busy uptown Saturday night. Anyway, seating was very prompt as we had a reservation. I was dressed up quite nicely but most of my party were casually dressed and no one felt uncomfortable. They do have a dress code but I understand that they are lenient. The service was just so impeccable! Prompt but not intrusive, attentive, courteous, friendly but not overly so, just top notch. Sorry I forgot our waitress name but she was very helpful in explaining the dishes so that even the kids could understand. Well the food was just outstanding also. We ordered a lot of appetizers to share and all of them were delightful. Special mention; the Pan Fried Calamari with hot peppers ( that sure didn't last long!), the creamy Mashed potatoes (the best I've ever had), the Lobster and Crab Cakes and the Lobster Mac'N' Cheese (just divinely delicious!). We also had various vegetable sides but I didn't sample many of those. For the main courses, all the adults had different steaks on the menu. Mine was the Steak au Poivre with a creamy French sounding sauce. It was beautifully tender at medium rare and spiced just right. Everyone raved about their steaks. The kids had their Chicken tenders (?) which was not on the regular menu but the waitress arranged it. The ambience was classy but not stuffy. We were not loud but pretty chatty and never felt rushed or uncomfortable. The vibe was bustling but relaxed for the guests. Only one person had dessert, everyone else were too full. The bill ( which I didn't see fortunately, thanks bro!) must have been quite high but it was well worth it. Everyone was happy, no complaints of any kind. Would absolutely go again on special occasions.", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2013-10-03", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "do-fO-EruYVP_FQPMNWmZg", "review_id": "bkBYJIVNj-igbKe7Cgc9RA", "text": "Having been here a few times for dinner, Capital Grill is a go-to for food & service. I have enjoyed a variety of entrees here, as well as their bar for signature cocktails and appetizers. This past week a friend and I decided to stop in for a drink at the bar. While enjoying our cocktails, we decided to check out the bar menu. Richard was our server, and he was very attentive & made a few recommendations, one being the smoked salmon. We were sold. He set up a nice dinner display, even though you are sitting at the bar, you get napkin, plate, etc set -up. Our appetizer was delivered and was delicious. The dish comes with smoked salmon, cream cheese, onions, capers, and crostini. It was delicious! I look forward to my next visit, and appreciate that Capital Grille continues to stay true to serving the customer with great food & service!", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2013-10-06", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "To9pdTt6gcc31Xrl2w_Dxg", "review_id": "ciYr8f7_ZnfMDCR9nv_Fdg", "text": "The best steakhouse of all the chains, for sure. Expensive but worth it for special occasions and company functions. Steaks are amazing. Lobster Mac 'n Cheese is the best I've ever had in any restaurant. Bread was fresh and delicious. Au gratin potatoes and all the veg dishes are full of flavor. Staff are ready to meet your needs. It is not a five because we were disappointed in the seafood/lobster.", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 4, "date": "2013-11-07", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "bn6f-fjRShwP1yCuAF5WFw", "review_id": "YuxT8uI5QgAPhgEHUXUDcQ", "text": "This is heaven for steak lovers like me! High quality and moody...I enjoyed my time very well.", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2013-11-20", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "wj1356xunegGD6_jA5EomA", "review_id": "fmC72-I1EShbs7uCyLpHeg", "text": "I've eaten there twice while traveling on business. Both meals were outstanding. The service was perfect and so was the food. Everything about how this place is run is top-notch. I highly recommend it.", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2013-11-30", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "1Zv5PDZYUYY1olbjM2VAPw", "review_id": "n-1zFBqcJ-9o4JYOlt-ItQ", "text": "Took the wife for a nice dinner at Capital Grille. I love the confirmation email you get when making the reservation. The place was a little busy and our table wasn't ready despite a reservation so we went to the bar. Paul the bartender served us stoli doli's(sp?), their signature martini. It was amazing. We moved to our table and we split the calamari. It was solid..not great...the peppers were a little much.\n\nFor dinner, I got filet Oscar and the wife had the salmon. Both were cooked well. We split a side.\n\nPluses - great service, great steak...minuses - waiting for table, calamari peppers, price...sides should not be double digits in price", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-09-05", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "tEihvQHQgjpXwn8kGU3tvg", "review_id": "YvRLeP1NMGGmSH0hm4Jazw", "text": "I ate there last night with two friends for a can't-make-the-wedding-so I-want to-do-something-special for you dinner. None of us were disappointed. This was my third visit there and, like each time before, everything was superb. The service was exemplary and the food...it continues to WOW. My friends each had a steak. I had the salmon. We all felt that this was some of the best food we had ever eaten ANYWHERE.\n\nYes, the prices are insane. But for a special occasion dinner, I can't think of a better place in Charlotte to go.", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-09-06", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "dDl_ZpKCkQHaMlp7yzjrTg", "review_id": "pBgkn2mmdP8_x9_MItfIEQ", "text": "We decided on Capital Grille for our anniversary dinner and I have to say this was one of the best dinners I've ever had. We started with the lobster and crab cakes, which were served with a cold corn relish and house-made tarter sauce. I appreciated the huge hunks of lobster in the cakes. I had that night's special, which was a bone-in tenderloin. That was the best steak I've ever eaten. I paired it with the wine suggested by our waiter and the combo was incredible. My husband had the porterhouse. We also tried the lobster mac n cheese. Amazing!! I'm already looking forward to our next visit.", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-09-20", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "zw_xNzWexXC0FS4wbgH_OQ", "review_id": "yrKXu8_3G0eNX5vmZlA49g", "text": "This is my favorite steakhouse! Their appetizers, salad are well made and delicious. The steaks are cooked to exactly to the diner's request. Great place to begin night on the town in uptown Charlotte or celebrate an important event.", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-09-21", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "J98vrJf8zg0z-J4vF8PGDw", "review_id": "5v6IB-O-o4dGPzML9R7dNQ", "text": "It's good. Had lobster soup first so later the sea bass didn't taste that great. But I had it packed and ate the rest in the next day, it was soooooooo good!", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-10-05", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "v4oykWFMOvtlrfke1DRC7Q", "review_id": "jrEY7THkeummUePJJc0-Yg", "text": "Great dinner tonight with good friends. Lobster bisque, crab and lobster cakes with an added lobster tail, filet and lobster for my husband. Good wine. Richest carrot cake.", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-10-05", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "JRdTRHchEWH_qba8Y8P6cQ", "review_id": "C5EyxB532CtuS5ZmunO4XA", "text": "My business colleagues and I stopped here for Dinner last night. We arrived at 6 at got a great booth in the main dining room. Since we are CG regulars, there was no need to look at the menu. We ordered Old Fashioned Whiskies, Filets, Creamed Corn and Coconut Cream Pies for Desert. That was it........pure bliss!\n\nThis is another fabulous CG location. The Decor, food and service was awesome as usual. The Managing Partner Armin Ahrabin was a great host.\n\nCG rocks in Charlotte!", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-10-05", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 4, "useful": 6, "cool": 4}, "user_id": "X36p3mD4oqBE53sASc_Ykw", "review_id": "sjHVSx5-lcxNqMTVmsQGqw", "text": "As far as a LUNCH goes, this is THE BEST lunch I've had in Charlotte since I came here in 2011! OK it's NOT cheap! That is a given. But I got the Ribeye Steak Sandwich with Havarti, Carmelized Onions and Parmesean Truffle Fries. As the pictures show, this was one hell of a \"sandwich!\" It was about a 12oz STEAK sandwiched in between 2 pieces of bread. UBER flavorful, thick, juicy and prepared perfectly Med/Medium Rare. I struggled to stay awake at my desk after lunch but this was OH SO good! I mean, SUPERBLY good! And it cost $24 with tip, but well worth it!\n\nMy lunch buddy got their cheeseburger, and that also was DELICIOUS! It had to be at least 10oz, bigger than most, and completely covered in cheese.\n\nSo if you want to splurge on a great lunch, this is THE place to come! Just bring a high limit credit card! Hey like I say, you get what you pay for!", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-10-15", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "MBdvFm0FUmLFVuqspays5g", "review_id": "3k6BKFmMXRGh_su58Y7kxw", "text": "Need no occasion, they make the day/night a special one! Absolute class from the minute your seated! Ambiance, staff and food were spectacular! Angel our waitress was the best!!", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-10-23", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "6A-dhjTEaiOpMOB3P5ghSA", "review_id": "NhQfskMrwDkuwKlOwXLe9g", "text": "All I wanted in life was a juicy, tender medium rare filet. Capital Grille not only delivered that, but also had lobster bisque as a special. Lobster bisque with at least 2 full claws worth of meat in it. Their bread was delicious too. It's expensive and can be a little formal/stuffy, but their food has been consistently amazing every time I've gone.", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-11-03", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "KmImzeVfLhBXvKphcap_DQ", "review_id": "XuP7X3mRQRY3vrKf9O5cIQ", "text": "Best ribeye ever!!!", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-11-07", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "0kQCRyQGMdwbtLvKPVwQ4Q", "review_id": "pk1KSsfdME8g0bhPCIeJBw", "text": "My friends and I went here last night. Our waiter Shawn was super! The crab cakes, lobster mac and cheese dish were delicious.", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-09-01", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "w2JrGGqTaQ12-ohj76RXdQ", "review_id": "IbdX_NKc05062UwoucnxMw", "text": "We visited during restaurant week and one thing to note is the service was outstanding. She was awesome, attentive, helpful and don't find service like this much. Overall the food was good. We got salads to start, nothing special what you would expect for a Caesar salad. The filet was good but could have been a little more tender. I find many steak restaurants have an issue cooking to med-well. It was good just not great. The side were really good, we got potatoes, beans and man & cheese. The mac & cheese is to die for...awesome!! Desserts were good, the chocolate flourless cake was great but super rich. Overall good experience.", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-09-02", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 2, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "UH9CERAqH_F1Q8azJqOjCw", "review_id": "aqGXWCitWfyJwbqL32PD9g", "text": "Thank you for making our anniversary so memorable. From the moment we walked in, every staff member was courteous and took a genuine interest providing great service. There were great little touches like the complimentary glasses of champagne and a special anniversary dessert that made our experience go from great to exceptional. My filet was absolutely perfect and the lobster macaroni was decadent. I was thoroughly wowed!", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-09-08", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "Al_lV54KFnRgAqDO-qVIuw", "review_id": "89o0Nu70sb4uhER0RaFB7w", "text": "I. LOVE. CAPITAL. GRILLE.\n\nI typically try and stray away from chain restaurants, especially ones I consider to be 'over-priced'. But this place is different. The staff is uber friendly and accommodating, and they have almost anything you'd desire to eat... all the way from soups, to burgers, to chicken, to various seafood entrees. \n\nAppetizers: 10/10 would order the fried Calamari every time. Delicious, and with an added bonus of cherry & banana peppers thrown in. \n\nTheir lobster bisque is divine ... a must before each meal. Come hungry, or don't come at all.\n\nEntrees: Their fish of the day is usually always a good call. For menu items, I love the Chilean Sea Bass, as well as the Seared Citrus Glazed Salmon. If you're looking for beef ... they use Wagyu beef and they're massive. The filet mignon is seared to perfection. \n\nDessert: All are made in house --- so you know they're made with love! The cheesecake with fresh berries in some of my favorite cheesecake, and the flourless chocolate espresso cake is heavenly.\n\nFrom what I've seen, you can't go wrong with anything at this fine-dining establishment!", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-09-10", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "SD5_Zn0zvvViNmQGjo3_9Q", "review_id": "UnX3Ox4XtLRCckpnrun3jQ", "text": "My husband and I ate at the capital grill tonight for the very first time it was outstanding. I started out with a capital cosmopolitan and he had the adult only Arnold Palmer, then I had the lobster crab cakes it was to die for. For dinner I had the porcini Rubbed Bone-In Ribeye with the grilled asparagus and the lobster mac and cheese OMG is all I can say, the steak was so tender and juicy, he had the Wagyu Cheeseburger with Fried Egg and Crisp Onions and truffle Parmesan fries. The serves was absolutely wonderful our waiter name was David he was always there he never missed a beat this whole experience was absolutely great. We had a ball for the food was GREAT!!!!!!", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-09-19", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "jRSMRKsCLmSbUwDyp6F1ig", "review_id": "izbG4q_Hew3SXHDpHAPz0w", "text": "I LOVE Capital Grille!!!! My husband & I sat at the bar tonight to celebrate. Our bartender Alex was amazing! Wagyu and Wine feature was great, but it was really Alex who made the night special. The Capital Grille staff always delivers :)", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-09-22", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "ik3pwNHdhTcuWioQucm7OA", "review_id": "NeZOaTp_G-i5n0W7X6mCyQ", "text": "The kona NY strip is one of the best steaks I've ever had. Recommended! Great cocktails, fun staff, knowledgable sommelier made for a wonderful evening!", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-10-06", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "dXkJ91eJ60KppeHC9dmavA", "review_id": "otS0wIXaCUtBGYa2Y5oUFA", "text": "Don't always need reservations. Have walked in a few times without reservations. The wine menu is great and the pineapple martini is delicious. The kitchen is very accommodating to allergies. The ribeye is amazing and I also always enjoy a seafood dish such as the salmon.", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-10-21", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "YjJwrUyaOsxiVCKFIdAg7g", "review_id": "3aoBWKoi2BHEMWENh1VRow", "text": "Upscale but...\nMy wife and I celebrated our 35th anniversary last night at The Capital Grille.\nThe food was excellent. We had both the lobster crab cakes and shrimp cocktail for appetizers. Very delicious. Just the right spice and temperature. For our main course my wife had the salmon and I had the night's special steak. My wife enjoyed her salmon but did have to add salt which I found a bit unusual since she rarely does that. My steak was cooked to perfection and our sides of Sam's mashed potatoes and asparagus were also prepared to our liking.\nI can find nothing but great things to say about the quality of food.\nThe only thing keeping me from giving me The Capital Grille five stars is the service. It struck us as being rude when we were at the reception station and the host told one of the wait staff to \"go sit these two\". Not really what I was expecting from a place such as this. Our waiter was \"Ok\". Nothing special. He was semi-attentive but as we were having our first sips of our after dinner drinks he brought us the check. Really? Do you want us to leave or do you want us to sit and spend some more money.? It was Halloween and its not like the place was slammed full. \nCall me picky but if I am dropping $250 for dinner then I would expect that the service equal my expectations.\nI do want to give The Capital Grille a big Thank You for going the extra step of setting up our table for our anniversary. My wife was thrilled. Thank you!", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-11-01", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "wRJpzRh0jwPtdhB9ABAgrA", "review_id": "rbseUt4vqEHiXaZ5LhEmVg", "text": "Pro: The food was delicious and the restaurant is beautiful. Very upscale..You can smell the luxury and money coming in/out the restaurant. No wait time, no reservations needed as we just popped in for lunch. We were seated rite away!\n \nCons: food came out luke warm. The server was not attentive, and I'm not sure why as the place was not busy at the time. Lest just say his tip went to the other server who had to pick up ours slack. If you don't earn it you don't get it.", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-11-03", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 3, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "ISsh4rKhWuDImRUw6niuQg", "review_id": "eou3xkOGyItZQW-iJxV66Q", "text": "Excellent meal and service. \n\nShrimp Cocktail - very good standard shrimp cocktail \n\nOysters - Fresh and delicious \n\nCrab and Lobster cake - this was the best dish of the night. It is a must get. This is really a crab cake with a piece of lobster claw on top. That being said it was great.\n\nSteak Tartar - biggest disappointment of the night. It was served in a classic manner with everything deconstructed. I prefer when I don't have to mix everything together myself. \n\nBone in ribeye - perfectly cooked Medium Rare. It was great!\n\nService was impressive. Very attentive and friendly.", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-11-10", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 2, "cool": 2}, "user_id": "0cX4Z7MtAs3_ODuGO76oGQ", "review_id": "QrSE7VxOpXl6yUVWLwhSmw", "text": "Last night my boy friend and I dined at Capital Grille for his birthday. We were incredible impressed by the food and even more so the service! We are both young and we usually get shoved in a corner and nearly forgotten at nice restaurants, but not here!\n\nOur server was Ken and he was wonderful! He was funny and professional and provided just the right amount of assistance. The manager stopped by on several occasions to check in, and everyone was handing out birthday well wishes. \n\nI had the citrus seared salmon and my boyfriend had the Kona crusted bone in sirloin. We shared a Caesar salad and the au gratin potatoes. Everything was cooked just right and delicious. By far the best Salmon I've ever had! \n\nWe tried the signature pineapple martini, which really packs a punch! And we were given cheese cake and flourless espresso chocolate cake for the birthday boy. Both desserts were amazing. I would definitely order the cheese cake again! \n\nIt is an expensive restaurant, but I really felt like the expense was worth it! Great service and great food can't be beat!", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-11-14", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "vlhGr5wJuKE3RatJi1t_7Q", "review_id": "WQabWomkHsAGNHF4Bs7WKg", "text": "Great food, great service! Perfect for a special occasion. The lobster mac-n-cheese is phenomenal. We'll be back for birthdays, anniversaries, and whenever we're just in the mood for a really great steak!", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-11-20", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 2, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "gRKiX_9JUqi4Jy8KjtsehA", "review_id": "q5kv7YtG8UQiXUOSTSa9sw", "text": "The Capital Grille is solid. It has a more upscale feel then some other high end chain restaurants. The drinks are awesome and the food came out perfect. From oysters, to bomb ass lobsters this place is pretty legit. Personally, I think the steaks were just a tiny bit above average. Better than Fleming's, but not as good as Sullivan's. This is a great place for a date or a business dinner.", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-11-25", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "JG4BZ6PWmhB3XHgpRKaicQ", "review_id": "PSVnKNIeWCy02XOK-iAYhQ", "text": "I have been coming to Capital Grille at least once a month. I can easily say this is the best restaurant in Charlotte. The food and the service here are unquestionable and once you become a regular the service becomes even more personal.\n\nThere are a lot of competitors with this price range and same products in uptown, but when you want fine dining, friendly and courteous service along with a GREAT wine list this is the place to come!", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-11-29", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "Hh0TsWDvslYmhQZjeYYZcw", "review_id": "J5pLOJ09lY85yYQG9UuZAg", "text": "We were (belatedly) celebrating our anniversary, and were given an excellent cozy table with celebratory decorations. Rob, our server, was very attentive but unobtrusive, and Bryce, the manager, checked on us several times. They allowed us to bring a special wine from my cellar. Spinach salad, and lobster and crab cakes both excellent. We split a 24 ounce Porterhouse, perfectly done, tender and juicy, with two sides. They readily honored a gift certificate given to us by a friend, and even comp'd us the remaining balance. We even took a fair amount of leftovers, enough for dinner tomorrow night. This was everything a special occasion dinner should be! We left looking forward to our next dinner there.", "business_id": "CChwRoYVXA3QZulS8a6xOQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-11-30", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 3, "useful": 3, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "c1qSD6NRfWkiI4lT9IBesg", "review_id": "wQPSL2K9_iP7R3kzN4rNjg", "text": "Went here as the \"fancy installment\" during a recent trip to Charlotte. We went based on local word of mouth, and armed with the knowledge that the Yelp reviews were mixed.\n\nTurned out that Lavecchia's is okay. It's . . . okay. The decor seemed like it was aimed toward the tastes of early 90s Miami drug dealers. I would not have been surprised if Crockett and Tubbs had come in and raided the place.\n\nGot the house-style lobster, which is prepared well, and it's interesting how they remove it from the shell. It was lobster, so it was pretty good, but it did not stand out. I got mussels, which were presented well, but unfortunately, it was one of those batches of mussels with the faint gamey/fishy taste. Maybe the chefs should taste a couple when they make a batch.\n\nTwo things did stand out:\n\n1. The Lavecchia salad. Pretty cheap on the menu, but the salad was delicious. The candied walnuts were a nice touch.\n\n2. Oysters with tuna. This was a really interesting dish. Six blue point oysters on the half-shell, each with a slice of tuna sashimi draped over the top, then topped with this honey/rice wine/wasabl mixture. Popped in your mouth all at once, it creates a flavor that was unlike anything I've ever had. Refreshing but also complex.", "business_id": "TLrX4FECQDFz-E45TI_9ow", "stars": 3, "date": "2008-11-15", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "j3AIbrxu7qc-vi6gdKzONA", "review_id": "Yx5_KMQT3pnUE8Vk8xt_hA", "text": "Went here on a Friday night for dinner recently.\n\nAtmosphere: Loved it. My date and I thought the decor was interesting and a change from the typical. LaVecchia's is the kind of place that's relaxed enough to where you feel comfortable and not like you're being talked down to, but upscale enough that you won't confuse it with Red Lobster. Leave the jeans at home.\n\nService: Left much to be desired. The hostess took us right to our table that I had reserved, and our waitress immediately brought us water, but it was a solid 15-20 minutes before we could flag her down to actually order any food or wine. Now, I'm no fan of the hyperactive waitresses that bother you every 5 minutes to see how you're doing, but I think we ate the entire dinner without her so much as coming by our table to see if we needed anything. I've had much better service in Charlotte on Friday nights.\n\nFood: I had the jumbo stuffed shrimp with buttermilk whipped potatoes and vegetables. Great presentation. The shrimp were stuffed with lump crab and lightly breaded-- and by lightly breaded, I mean just enough to hold the concoction together. You taste the seafood, not the breading. My date had the salmon with penne and cream sauce. The sauce was too thin for my liking, but the salmon was juicy, thick, and not overcooked/over-seasoned.\n\nWould I go back: Absolutely. It's hard for any seafood restaurant in Charlotte to beat Upstream solely in terms of food, but LaVecchia's comes close, the atmosphere is more relaxed, and you can't beat the uptown location. I'm just hoping the waitress we had was the exception and not the rule.", "business_id": "TLrX4FECQDFz-E45TI_9ow", "stars": 4, "date": "2009-11-14", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "E0kMurifbL5vPlZ7ZbYRjw", "review_id": "PEW6X01ENl55XQOBtVz8BQ", "text": "The sea bass dish was amazing. That potato pancake with the gorgonzola was delicious! The metal decor was amazing and whimsical.", "business_id": "TLrX4FECQDFz-E45TI_9ow", "stars": 4, "date": "2010-09-16", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "lTvQG8z1633WfVfjl5mTNw", "review_id": "Q4zLuMxQcBS_db8gYk4rdQ", "text": "I had what was probably the best tuna ever at LaVecchia's. I ordered it medium rare and it came out perfect. I couldn't get enough of the wasabi, and the rice complimented the tuna perfectly. The atmosphere was nice and lively. We also had wonderful service. I'll be back!", "business_id": "TLrX4FECQDFz-E45TI_9ow", "stars": 5, "date": "2010-10-06", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "1aawii6Eb2JdIO94ioRVhw", "review_id": "K5Sd67A5riryHab6XUnK9Q", "text": "Celebrated my birthday here with my girls last Friday. It was my third visit, and I was just a tad bit disappointed. I've previously enjoyed their shrimp & grits as a hands-down fav, but this night it wasn't as delish as in times past! Nevertheless, the spinach artichoke dip was fresh and tastey, as was my BFF's filet & stuffed shimp. My other friend-girl was served some of the most ginormous king crab legs I had ever seen. And, she was kind enough to share a few butter-dipped morsels... uum uum good! The complimentary espresso tart was just the right indulgence to share with friends. So, all was well that ended well... especially with a 1/2 off entree for my b'day! yeah!", "business_id": "TLrX4FECQDFz-E45TI_9ow", "stars": 3, "date": "2010-11-22", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "xz2OnyhakHkgrqaY_bxxyg", "review_id": "xdfwMj3KelMTW4Ur8xqawg", "text": "Not great but just ok. Backed oysters were above average but the yellowfin tuna was unremarkable. New York steak was not as tender as it should have been. I think they did not serve Choice cuts.", "business_id": "TLrX4FECQDFz-E45TI_9ow", "stars": 3, "date": "2011-10-05", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "cDquBQuGstpRDYNMq2QYTg", "review_id": "ooeHy8lz5klrGrZd3xQekA", "text": "Was in Charlotte for a couple days and heard this place was a must try. My boyfriend and I went and had an amazing time! I started off with the calamari and it was absolutely perfect - best I've had! My boyfriend had the Cajun crab and shrimp dip and fell in love - the portion was quite hearty. For dinner I had the almond crusted tilapia and he had the special pepper crusted ahi tuna. His tuna was perfectly cooked and the sticky rice was perfection. My tilapia was good but the mash potatoes, corn and asparagus definitely made up for it. Expect to pay a good amount of money - I had 2 mixed drinks and he had 3 for a total of $124. Next time I'm in Charlotte I'll definitely go back.", "business_id": "TLrX4FECQDFz-E45TI_9ow", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-10-19", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "cpPTxk0ifLyK80hAp_2mrw", "review_id": "MphUIiGpa74eeeJ7lWPgdg", "text": "LaVecchia's came recommended by a business associate as a nice place with great food in convenient location. All true!\n\nTucked into the Hearst building, the restaurant can be a bit hard to find - its entrance is sublte, as is its patios area. The latter is under cover and looks like it would be cool and comfortable on a nice warm day.\n\nOur server was knowledgeable even if he looked like he just rolled off the futon. We enjoyed the hot and cold appetizer towers at his recommendation for the table. The oysters Rockefeller were the best! Close seconds were the ceviche, raw oysters, calamari, and tuna sashimi.\n\nTwo in our party ordered steaks (what??), but fish was the main reason to be there. My Thai yellow tail was really flavorful, the pineapple infused sticky rice was really lame.\n\nThe decor was a little cold where I think the decorator was going for casual chic. It was fine for a group of six for a business dinner, but I'd think for a date it might not strike the right note.\n\nI'd go back and try more of their menu and definitely get the oysters Rockefeller! Remember that they validate parking tickets too!", "business_id": "TLrX4FECQDFz-E45TI_9ow", "stars": 4, "date": "2011-11-02", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "epELYRU4ZftAKpL88m3atw", "review_id": "35-AsV0mD_oMxo1vrWOtiw", "text": "Located in Uptown and easy to access, this place should have had no problem earning 5 stars from me. I'm usually pretty generous when it comes to review because I know how hard the service industry is. However, LaVecchia's needs to take notes, because they have a lot lacking.\n\nWe arrived at 7:25 for our 7:30 reservation. Not all of our party was there so we were told we could wait in the building lobby and they would get our table ready soon. At 7:45 we were still waiting, everyone was there and I had watched them seat several other tables who said they had no reservations. So, I asked about our table and the hostess rolled her eyes and sighed and said they were still working on it. When I mentioned that our reservation had been for earlier, she said \"well, everyone else had reservations, too, Ma'am!\" and just walked off. I promptly labeled her the anit-hostess and another member of our party (of 5) went to find the front house manager.\n\nThe manager seated us but acted like he did us this huge favor. We were seated in the bar, next to the patio door, so we had the bracing blasts of cold air throughout our meal as staff went in and out this door all night long.\n\nOur waiter was in no hurry to take care of us. Once we ordered our drinks, he never came back with any more water, and one member of our party had to flag him down each time he wanted another beer. \n\nOur food finally came and at last, redemption!! Every single bite was perfection! I had the filet, my husband had lobster and two others had the snapper. Everyone oohed and ahhed over our meals. \n\nPrice point wise I feel we got what we paid for strictly in terms of food and food quality. The presentation was lovely, temp was good... I really could not find anything to negate the food.\n\nService is a different story. It was painfully obvious that the wait-staff was stressed by the front manager. He really seemed to have an attitude about even being there. The hostess was rude and off-putting from the moment we arrived and when we were seated commented that they \"worked it out\" for us, like she had to prove something. I still don't know exactly what her deal was.\n\nBottom line: If you want me to pay $200 for a meal, you need to act like you're glad I showed up. Drop the bad attitude and step it up. There are load of other upscale establishments in Charlotte that get it done. We'll be going to a different one next time.", "business_id": "TLrX4FECQDFz-E45TI_9ow", "stars": 2, "date": "2011-11-20", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "OpRVnf6ce1sqWoB4YrAUFQ", "review_id": "Qdm2vOu_KSpDY7duhQ-o6w", "text": "Just nothing to write home about. I knew we were in trouble when we asked the waiter where the oysters were from and his response was \" somewhere up north I think\". The fried oyster rockerfeller were very good. We were pretty much the only ones in there. I might stop back for a drink and an app, but I would look elsewhere first.", "business_id": "TLrX4FECQDFz-E45TI_9ow", "stars": 2, "date": "2012-09-25", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "-3akdU5UTDn6dwiTCO2cAw", "review_id": "ePnrxlkBblkD6wuzzA-K1w", "text": "I went to LaVecchia's for the first time EVER just a few weeks ago. I had heard so-so reviews from friends so I was a bit skeptical at first but thought that the dinner was very nice! The entrees that my date and I ordered did take a little long because they were very busy but we just enjoyed our appetizer in the meantime so it didn't bother us at all. The manager even bought us a bottle of wine for us because we had waited \"so long\". Score! The service was on-point and our waitress was incredibly friendly and helped us out with suggestions when ordering. I'll be back to LaVecchia's!", "business_id": "TLrX4FECQDFz-E45TI_9ow", "stars": 4, "date": "2012-09-28", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "_ma5L1ypUiIp9p-UdeyVLA", "review_id": "57PLO14WILF11VXIt0eRyQ", "text": "Mr. Rogers asks, \"Can you spell over-rated? Sure...I knew you could.\" I can't say a single bad thing about this place. I just can't say a single good thing. OK! The creamed spinach is good.", "business_id": "1gKBusJMk66ypwEKF0vOAA", "stars": 3, "date": "2008-09-14", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "Iy5wCXa6hpJDGuAripiTDA", "review_id": "lUN9y1Q0NlTm3PtoJls2og", "text": "One of the better meals I've had in CLT. I gotta go back before I can give an accurate picture.", "business_id": "1gKBusJMk66ypwEKF0vOAA", "stars": 4, "date": "2010-10-16", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 2, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "whKpnugMnWTz3UjlrN71yg", "review_id": "-pWTuK2DOVRwqxissxvGOw", "text": "So I figured I needed one more 5-star steakhouse review, so here it is. Yes, I'm a fan of steakhouses, as much for the ambiance and service as I am the food. I like to call my visits to steakhouses, \"scotch & steak\" as that is how I roll at these places. Not the cheapest way to go, but the style that I choose. What sets The Palm at the top is its attention to service, not only to me, but everyone around me as I listened in to their conversations with other servers. Definitely a spot for loyal regulars of which I will now become one of. \n\nGot there last night around 6:30pm and sat down at the bar and ordered my scotch from Michele, who was a great bartender offering up just the right amount of conversation. The bar area is long and has plenty of seats as well as small 2-top tables behind it. When my colleague arrived we decided to grab a booth next to the bar area...this is the way to go for me as you get the bar/lounge steakhouse feel. Now for the steaks...probably the highest price in Charlotte, even a tad higher than Morton's. All steak started in the $40's and went up to the $60's. My colleague, who is a regular, went with the \"off-the-menu\" porterhouse, while I went with the new your strip. Had my standard side of mushrooms and a wedge salad to start. \n\nThe steak was cooked perfectly medium rare, with a \"Pittsburgh crust\", which adds the char to the steak. This is slightly different than a true Pittsburgh style steak, which had the char, but it cool/rare in the center. It was recommended my the waiter (thanks Tony!), and it was delicious! If you're around Southpark I would choose The Palm over Del Frisco's all day long.", "business_id": "1gKBusJMk66ypwEKF0vOAA", "stars": 5, "date": "2010-11-03", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 12, "cool": 2}, "user_id": "lpZtfD-vCqUER1yGKEvUPw", "review_id": "gqEhwsGwn1n8kFy-CMwoxQ", "text": "It's quite rare that hubs and I give a restaurant (or any business for that matter) varying star ratings. In fact, I really can't name one other business we've been to where our reviews span more than one star apart. Therefore, I'm surprised to say that, overall, The Palm didn't knock my socks off. Was it a nice meal? Yes. Was it worth the money? No. And here's the why to it all.\n\nThe place: The Palm Steakhouse, SouthPark, Charlotte-NC\nThe occasion: Our three-year wedding anniversary\nThe channel of reservation: Open Table\nThe scene: Beautiful night on the patio, very empty on a Monday evening\n\nWe made an Open Table reservation and noted that it was our wedding anniversary...it was a special night, not just a fly by for a quick steak. As mentioned, the patio is great although you really just look out into a wide driving lane that heads towards the Hampton Inn. \n\nOur server, Fernando, was top notch. Really, five stars for the service all the way around. Very formal but completely in tune with the cadence of the meal and the guest's needs. The food, however, is where I take issue...especially for the price.\n\nBeefsteak tomato Capri salad: 4/5: Big slices of bright red tomato with hunks of fresh mozzarella and basil. Props to Fernando for lightly pouring on the oil and balsamic at the table. Nice touch. \n\nChilean Sea Bass: 3/5: The fish was beautiful - really a great filet. However, I knew it would be sauteed in a white wine butter sauce, not swimmin' in it. The delicate fish was sitting in a pool and drowning in the sauce. \n\nGoat cheese whipped potatoes: 3/5: Fairly tasty mashed taters, but nothing out of the ordinary. I didn't taste too much of the goat cheese and they required a heavy hand of salt and pepper to liven them up. \n\nCreme brulee: 2/5: As some may know, I'm a total treat monster and the creme brulee came highly recommended. The flavors were bright - light with just a hint of citrus, but the bruleed top was ice cold and the middle of the creme was also super chilly. I have a feeling this was refrigerated for a long time and the texture and temperature suffered. \n\nOther notes: The shrimp cocktail is $18.90. Are you kidding me? That's insane. Also, there is not a petite filet...only a 9 oz. option for $43. This served as the reason why I went with fish instead of steak. I did, however, try a few bites of hubs' steak and it was cooked perfectly and was very well flavored. Additionally, I was a bit surprised that, considering the great service, no one wished us a happy anniversary in any way. \n\nOverall, our meal for two people, with a few drinks added in, came to $200. I'm completely fine shelling out some coin for a great meal, but The Palm fell short for me.", "business_id": "1gKBusJMk66ypwEKF0vOAA", "stars": 3, "date": "2011-09-13", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "Ucs7mEaTTzLvpshSYZw7Iw", "review_id": "SS0aE6vyjVMEbKG2tI-5kg", "text": "The Palm is first class all the way. If you want a mildly casual yet extravagant lunch, this is the place to go. The atmosphere is somewhat country club-esque with rich wood trims and place settings. Caricatures line the walls making things less stuffy. \n\nAs for the food, I had an amazing salad to start followed by the sea bass which was served over a heavy cream sauce. I finished with coffee and ended up taking home a piece of double chocolate flowerless cake for later. The cake was great by the way! In fact, the meal was great. I can't wait to visit again!", "business_id": "1gKBusJMk66ypwEKF0vOAA", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-09-26", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "IrXGWOATs8m86LDy1Jp3gw", "review_id": "6xyABkz099sMTCQzF7_ULA", "text": "How have I been deprived for so long? I have frequented a lot of steak houses in my time and how hubby managed to keep me out of this place for so many years I will never know. I am so over Filets so I ordered the NY steak with Chimchurri on the side and it was A.Mazing! I have already decided this is where I want to go for my birthday this year. Service-perfect, food-perfect, martini-perfect. What more could one ask for? Just remember, you get what you pay for and pricey is to be expected here.", "business_id": "1gKBusJMk66ypwEKF0vOAA", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-10-19", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "3SX2aG8FHY-FQfD26nRFpg", "review_id": "U1nbtEWwUoLClq6ZoiGV3A", "text": "What an amazing place. Best steaks and seafood I have ever had! The service is impeccable. Each time we go, they remember us by name and always ask details about our kids, business, etc. Very personable and laid back.", "business_id": "1gKBusJMk66ypwEKF0vOAA", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-11-14", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "WdXFnzrd_CG1vOYZoafpmw", "review_id": "-CNo-6RiTOLXdjhqwxu99A", "text": "A safe and solid choice, power lunches are good here and decent happy hour specials as well. Can't think of a time where I'd pick it over Del Frisco's, but you can never go wrong. Nice area to walk around, with a movie theater and Dean & Deluca down the way.", "business_id": "1gKBusJMk66ypwEKF0vOAA", "stars": 3, "date": "2012-10-14", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "j60JaPr8l-pproz4Q7BuMQ", "review_id": "zCZsjYcYHfiwMojYAXIs9Q", "text": "Delicious steaks and crab cakes. Excellent waitstaff. Surprisingly good beer selection. I also really like the decor. With all of the caricatures... Personally I try to stay away from the steakhouse chains, but the palm is topnotch. If you're a fan of steaks it doesn't really get batter than the palm. A+", "business_id": "1gKBusJMk66ypwEKF0vOAA", "stars": 5, "date": "2012-10-16", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "xPf7Xgy7QmLcHba_RuQ4yQ", "review_id": "WZ8Vyvamn2BmCw7Gf24j7A", "text": "LOVED it! Ate there for Thanksgiving dinner. Perfect choice. Food, service and atmosphere was exceptional.", "business_id": "1gKBusJMk66ypwEKF0vOAA", "stars": 5, "date": "2012-11-26", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "tuzZ1QAU0P75BOI4iwoLgw", "review_id": "z3v7aH3PQ4bzfsfP0vu1wg", "text": "I've been to other Palm Restaurants and the food is always wonderful but in this one the food was good but it was just . . . LOUD! tile floor lots of people crammed into tables that are far too close together. So again, great food, but do your talking and visiting on the walk around Phillips Place after dinner.", "business_id": "1gKBusJMk66ypwEKF0vOAA", "stars": 3, "date": "2013-10-08", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "3GteArKIVRlJZjjRqqwgaQ", "review_id": "VnYpgeBcUUYgyL-RSqgWBA", "text": "I have heard great things about the Palm and I think it is somewhat of a staple here in Charlotte but I have to say it honestly didn't live up to the hype in my opinion.\nI think your experience will depend upon your reasoning for choosing this restaurant..\nFor example, we chose this to celebrate our anniversary and it just didn't satisfy me. It was rather loud in the restaurant in general, the hostess was friendly but nothing special, it wasn't romantic and they really didn't do anything to make you feel like you were a special guest.\n\nWe were seated in a private room initially so I was excited and hopeful. However, our bread had not hit the table before another couple was seated RIGHT beside us. Then, within 30 minutes 2 more tables were occupied including a family of 5. The kids were like toddlers--WHY are they in there?\n\nMoving on...the waitress was super friendly, her \"assistant\" didn't speak english but she was helpful. The waitress was extremely knowledgeable and really knew the menu quite well. She even suggested a few things that were not listed on the menu. I liked the fact that they offered 9 oz pours for the wine and they had a pretty extensive wine variety. \n\nMy husband ended up ordering the Filet and I ordered the crab cakes because I was told these are their house specialty! We ordered the goat cheese mashed potatoes and broccoli for our sides. \n\nI thoroughly enjoyed the crab cakes. Were they worth almost $40? Not even close. It was three small little crab clusters. They were void any fillers which I appreciated and packed with good quality crab meat. They were great but not worth taking out a loan over.. \n\nThe steak my husband ordered was decent but again nothing special. The flavoring that they recommended he try was a peppercorn/olive oil sauce. The steak honestly shouldn't need this additional flavoring but it did in this case. It was a little chewy and it didn't melt in your mouth! It was not flavored well on its own. I honestly think a Ruth Chris' steak is much better! Again, this just wasn't worth the $50 it cost.\n\nThe sides were good although there was nothing about the potatoes that tasted like goat cheese...they were just very good and creamy mashed potatoes. The broccoli had great flavor and was cooked perfectly--not too crunch and not soggy--just how I like it!\n\nWe didn't have time for dessert (catching a play uptown) but their menu looked decent. We were told to try their donuts. I'm sure they are good. I think it would have been nice if they offered a free dessert or something special because it was our anniversary. \n\nRoundup? I expected more, especially for the price point. I'm telling you I can go into Ruth's or Sullivans or Terra and many other restaurants that are not as expensive and have a better overall dining experience. I can't figure out why someone would choose the Palm over all the other great steakhouses in the area. They are more expensive and offer less quality and a worse environment. I wouldn't come back.", "business_id": "1gKBusJMk66ypwEKF0vOAA", "stars": 3, "date": "2013-11-14", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "ncHyBw9G0ez6bpbZtaFtjQ", "review_id": "TnsTSnD6mNSDwN0fRajqfw", "text": "I have been to The Palm in L.A., and had an amazing dinner experience there. I decided to go there for Thanksgiving dinner this year, as there were only two of us, and it's not worth the mess to cook for two.\nThis wasn't my first choice, but Sullivan's was not available.\nThe Palm had a Thanksgiving menu, or the regular menu was available.\nBoth of us went Thanksgiving.\nThe first course was great: I had the arugula & apple salad, and my girlfriend had the lobster bisque. Both were excellent.\nSecond course was the main entree: sliced turkey breast, stuffing, cranberry sauce, gravy, plus our choice of veggie. We had whipped potatoes and green beans.\nEverything was very good.\nThe last course was dessert, which we got to go. The choices were pumpkin or chocolate pecan pie. We both chose the pecan pie.\nAt home later that evening, we learned that this dessert was nothing more than store-bought pumpkin pie with chocolate chips pressed into the top. The crust was awful, and had the tell-tale pattern of a machine-made pastry.\nReally?!\nI am disappointed that a high-end steakhouse does not have a pastry chef. I left The Palm in L.A. with a piece of carrot cake that was worth fighting over (or at least arm wrestling). \nYou are not getting out of The Palm for less than $75 per person. I was shocked that was the best they could do. \nAdded frustration: Thanksgiving is the day that everyone from age 80-120 has dinner at The Palm. It is impossible get from A to B outside or inside the place. \nWe'll go elsewhere in the future.", "business_id": "1gKBusJMk66ypwEKF0vOAA", "stars": 2, "date": "2013-11-30", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "8bwVOeK3Zylt6PnKf-KNnw", "review_id": "heCzU5EQWEST-Q7qxpCNrg", "text": "Absolutely Amazing Birthday Dinner with Suzanne!! Palm filet mignon and 3 lbs. Lobster!!\nThe Hash Browns are to die for also!!", "business_id": "1gKBusJMk66ypwEKF0vOAA", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-11-22", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "HgYCgmrt_AIRJi2rSiux-w", "review_id": "JaBR8z1q3Ab9ut8RHN5KUw", "text": "Another excellent meal and exquisite service at The Palm. Our intent was to share some appetizers over cocktails outside. Our excellent server, Melissa, mentioned the availability of prime rib and we instantly changed our plans from appetizers to a full dinner.\n\nShared appetizers were clams casino and calamari fritti. The clams were nice; but, the calamari was outstanding - tender as could be, lightly breaded, red and yellow pepper strips were scattered throughout - a nice counterbalance.\n\nThe prime rib was shared by two of us and was felt in your mouth delicious. And, for me, my real favorite, as always, the creamed spinach.\n\nFor dessert, the flourless chocolate cake and warm doughnuts were the perfect ending.\n\nThe wine, a Buckhorn cabernet, was excellent as were the cocktails.\n\nBut, the real highlight of the evening was the service. All of the staff was wonderful; but, Melissa was outstanding - her description of the food and the wine was sheer perfection, worthy of a slot on the Food Channel - so very descriptive!\n\nAn excellent evening on all counts!\n\nVisited May 2015", "business_id": "1gKBusJMk66ypwEKF0vOAA", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-10-11", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "Zwsq31eNUo2HpdkV2h9aig", "review_id": "Q_wI-NAG5EMu6U3bU0bfSg", "text": "This is definitely one of the pricier restaurants I've ever been to in Charlotte, but that's not saying much. The food is definitely pretty good, with some odd menu items, but they really shocked me with how much flavor they had.\n\nThe ambiance of the place wasn't too much to my liking, with so many different plates, silverware options, etc...but I'm sure if you're used to this than it's no different than any pricey restaurant. Heck, the waiter even poured the wine for my girlfriend & had her try it before buying (which is apparently customary)...\n\nIt is in a nice area of Charlotte, close enough to the hustle & bustle but just far enough away. The food, while not top notch, is pretty good & it sure is a nice place to impress a date, but make sure you bring your credit card.", "business_id": "BOp3jcpYy31M85H1DLnEEw", "stars": 3, "date": "2008-09-09", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "kDYpTc-yc8UAxCs_LhX1yA", "review_id": "-5GKTukaQFozEmIFyx-lYA", "text": "As far as I can tell, Upstream is the best (nicest) restaurant in Charlotte, and I'm not sure it's close. Most people I've talked to tend to agree. It's just awesome: classy, hip, with great food and service. The one downside? It's super expensive, but it has every right to be, because it's outstanding. Of course, I say all this having gone there for a firm dinner, when everything was free to me. But whatever. \n\nGreat bar scene--big bar and cocktail tables for before and after your meal (or if you're there just to hang out). Super call outdoor lounge area for nice weather (definitely check this out if you're there during warmer months). Amazing dining room atmosphere--great art, great ambiance, great table stuff. Just the best. \n\nAnd the food. Everything I tried was better than the rest. If you're really feeling zesty, go with their signature dish, their sea bass. It's awesome, although super expensive ($38). I gotta say, if you love fish, it's worth it. Indeed, if you're a seafood fan, this is your place. You might not love as much if you're not into seafood, although there are non-fish options should you desire them. \n\nBut if you're there, go with the fish. You will NOT be disappointed at all. \n\nAmazing date place if you really want to impress. Or if you're just pretty loaded.", "business_id": "BOp3jcpYy31M85H1DLnEEw", "stars": 5, "date": "2008-10-24", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 2}, "user_id": "whKpnugMnWTz3UjlrN71yg", "review_id": "jF5G0LQhHRBWdgGJMDjcyA", "text": "Upstream is one of 3 main restaurants in Phillips Place (PF Chang's & The Palm are the other two). Known for it's seafood and brunch, I've been here several times for dinner or some quick bites at the bar. For me, a solid 3 stars. I've never tried the brunch, but heard it's very good. Same ownership group as Zink & Mimosa Grill.\n\nFor dinner...I've had the tuna and the scallops. Both were good, and the portions were not too far off from their $25-$30 entree price. Both times I've been there for dinner, we've sat on the patio which is nice and a great view the end of Phillips place near the movie theater. There are some lounge chairs outside near the front as well, which seem a little off placed for me, but it's a nice tough. They have valet parking too. \n\nI've been here more for a quick stop for sushi and oysters with a beer at the bar. There are a few TV's around, so fellas, if the lady(ies) are shopping, go here for a beer and some apps...you'll be able to catch the game in the bar area. Sushi was average to me, but the oysters were good and when I think Upstream, I think of a good oyster spot for me in the South Park area. \n\nI've never had a problem with service and would recommend Upstream to try. For me, I need to still try the brunch!", "business_id": "BOp3jcpYy31M85H1DLnEEw", "stars": 3, "date": "2010-10-20", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 2}, "user_id": "2KLg9BGxebym4neLPd9dNg", "review_id": "nOlPaK4A0c5FjWEzQUT3Fg", "text": "I went to Upstream twice last week: once for lunch, and once for the Yelp elite event. I was really impressed on both occasions, but this review will mostly talk about lunch, because that will likely be more useful to people considering the restaurant.\n\nThat being said: wow, lunch was amazing. I ordered the atlantic salmon bento box and was absolutely blown away. I truly forgot that salmon could be so delicious. Don't get me wrong: everything else in the box was delicious as well: the vegetables, the Asian slaw, and the cucumber salad were all top-notch (and I don't even usually like cucumbers!). But that salmon... oh my goodness. It was cooked and seasoned perfectly; it melted like butter upon my tongue.\n\nI'll return to Upstream for sure. Oh, here's an added bonus: they're relatively pricey for dinner, but their lunch is pretty dang cheap! My bento box was only $12. That's pretty cool, huh?", "business_id": "BOp3jcpYy31M85H1DLnEEw", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-09-24", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "cZjX4HsWB8mTLHI4uhbB-g", "review_id": "wn4ZnP14egJBe1sfJOp6aw", "text": "Although I am fairly certain that at some point, Upstream offered 1/2 priced bottles of wine throughout the week until 7 p.m., that deal is only offered now on Sundays. The happy hour bar bites, however, are still offered. $6 will get you some excellent mussels (somewhat spicy broth), tempura fried green beans (YUM!), and a myriad of other options. Also half priced sushi rolls, I do believe. It is confirmed that Upstream DOES have a pastry chef, contrary to some popular belief around here. We did split a chocolate mousse cake which was a hit, and there were some seasonal additions that sounded intriguing. Gingerbread cheesecake or something along those lines. Let me know how it is if you get to it first!", "business_id": "BOp3jcpYy31M85H1DLnEEw", "stars": 4, "date": "2011-10-20", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "_kOZqtzJsbaIY85vcrRfPw", "review_id": "IUJRJSuWouQ4A7q-EN2Llg", "text": "Delicious and unique seafood offerings, I had not been back in a number of years (for no particular reason), but I was quite pleased and will return again sooner!", "business_id": "BOp3jcpYy31M85H1DLnEEw", "stars": 4, "date": "2012-09-12", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "tFLi8-M6MOOrY5CsvWHRMA", "review_id": "g-nKlZvpUT5T6JzSRdpzMw", "text": "Great place to dine. I have been here 4 times already! \n\nI have been here for dinner and just to unwind. The seafood dishes are fresh and good. The dessert is hit! I am not a big fan of chocolate, but their pastry chef makes this yummy chocolate dessert called Costa Rica Chocolate & Coffee Mousse Cake. \n\nI admit, this place is within walking distance - so I always love to swing by at the bar area and have a nice cup of their fresh earl grey tea & dessert. Great place to have your own R&R", "business_id": "BOp3jcpYy31M85H1DLnEEw", "stars": 5, "date": "2012-10-07", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "Hh0TsWDvslYmhQZjeYYZcw", "review_id": "37-yZiptPvDg-wLZK4cZDQ", "text": "We had had a disappointing meal several weeks ago, but they invited us back to give them another try. I ordered the same dishes (steamed mussels, sea bass, and salmon roe sushi) and all were perfectly prepared this time. The Maitre d' and general manager were both very attentive. Jennifer, our server, was excellent. They have redeemed themselves and we will definitely be backed!", "business_id": "BOp3jcpYy31M85H1DLnEEw", "stars": 5, "date": "2012-10-12", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "j60JaPr8l-pproz4Q7BuMQ", "review_id": "BekKrBTpDVT5yDoEXGbh5g", "text": "Upstream is a really nice place to dine. When my wife and I moved to Charlotte last year this is one of the first restaurants that we found that satisfied our seafood craving. A year later and this is by far the BEST seafood that we've found. We've been here 4 or 5 times in the past year. The seafood, sushi and steak (and the mussels) were all great. But we really really love the Costa Rican Chocolate dessert. It's excellent. The waitstaff is terrific. Very informative, attentive and friendly. It's a nice place for a date. It also has a really nice outdoor seating area to hang out and have a few drinks, appetizers or desserts. The only thing that I probably wish would change is the bar. It's quite spacious and seems to have a nice selection of beer and wine. I just didn't really enjoy the atmosphere of it. It seemed to be more appealing to an older crowd. But ironically they're in the middle of renovating the bar area quite a bit, so I might have to update this review again in a few months. \n\nI would definitely recommend Upstream for a nice meal, just don't forget the dessert!", "business_id": "BOp3jcpYy31M85H1DLnEEw", "stars": 4, "date": "2012-10-15", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 3, "useful": 4, "cool": 3}, "user_id": "6n1Gb-yHpw4ke0oSAFOOnQ", "review_id": "TuC_pBzBK9Fc-09uHQxWiA", "text": "Oh upstream how I love thee. Why am I writing yet another update with the same rating as the ones before you ask? So I can tell you about the brunch of course. This brunch is a monster of a buffet and tapas menu combined all for the low price of $25! Hold on you might be balking at the hefty sticker tag on this brunch but let me tell you about all the stuff you can well...stuff yourself with and you'll be singing praises too after you try this joint out.\n\nThis being one of my last weekends in Charlotte the boyfriend and I went with a yelpy crew consisting of Travis W., Melissa B., Chad E., And Denise. First off you walk in get greeted and led to your table and handed a nice tapas menu. They could've charged $7-10 for most of the items on this tapas menu and made a killing but nope they're giving it to you as part of the buffet, score! I tried the scallop risotto, crab benedict, belgian waffle, and some other things all excellent! But wait it doesn't stop there you walk into the bar area and BAM! you're hit with a massive buffet of brunch items. You want some smoked salmon and mushrooms folded into your freshly made omelet? No problem. Add some excellently carved prime rib onto that you got some good eats. I was so full before I even got halfway through working on this buffet.\n\nThis place has met my expectations for lunch, dinner, and now brunch. Hopefully I am back in Charlotte soon to give it another whirl. Though dinner is a bit expensive and they do need to tell you the prices of the specials lest you order a $45 bento box like I did, the staff is incredibly accomodating and attentive to your needs. Hell they even remembered my name and how I like my tea for lunch after the second time I was there! Give it a try, you can thank me later.", "business_id": "BOp3jcpYy31M85H1DLnEEw", "stars": 5, "date": "2012-10-16", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "eqy95kUOcjubMUZ2F_FcOA", "review_id": "sKm9MJnUgKgRZJI-FJjMXQ", "text": "I've been to Upstream many times. I've had some excellent meals there, with some perfectly prepared seafoods. I love their mussel appetizer which is served in a cast iron pot and is enough to share 2 or even 4 ways as appetizers, but is also plenty for a main course if you like. Service can be mediocre and slow at times, as it was at a recent lunch there. That won't stop me from returning, but it would be nice if the service was equal to the food.", "business_id": "BOp3jcpYy31M85H1DLnEEw", "stars": 4, "date": "2012-11-24", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "CeGXyN69uBIApcAO_Sx6-A", "review_id": "iN2BX4EPBw4b0brpHV7IQw", "text": "My first time eating here and my first time eating out since having to switch to a dairy and gluten free diet. Our waiter (I think his name was Matt) was extremely sweet and helpful in fact we actually got to the restaurant before they opened and they still sat us! The chefs were accommodating to my diet and happy to do so. I will be back and recommend it to everyone! I had the rock shrimp pad Thai and it was fantastic and a giant portion. My mother had the shrimp burger special and said it was perfect. Bravo what a great place with perfectly polite service!", "business_id": "BOp3jcpYy31M85H1DLnEEw", "stars": 5, "date": "2013-10-12", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "N_LaEecq5KY10K9difSYYw", "review_id": "baGfL9UH8KBgrSvwBuRgdA", "text": "I think this is the best restaurant in Charlotte.\nThink of it as a seafood restaurant and raw bar plus imaginative sushi.\nYou can either sit at formal tables or at high tops in the bar area.\nI've done both but this time we were in the formal dining room.\nTheir signature dish is sake marinated Chilean sea bass and as always it didn't disappoint.\nI had a steamed lobster, very nice we also had sushi bento box, salmon sashimi and calamari.\nWell enough about the food, the service was great, informative, friendly and efficient.\nIf you are in Charlotte have a fair bit of credit on your credit card I recommend trying this fine restaurant.", "business_id": "BOp3jcpYy31M85H1DLnEEw", "stars": 5, "date": "2013-10-21", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 3, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "2OOcDXS8AQDENzXmnmVCxw", "review_id": "-_s4AQBkgxkVIaJat-mXEA", "text": "More like Downstream. In town from CA and wanted to try something new. Bad decision. Bad service. Food was bland & ill prepared. What a disappointment.", "business_id": "BOp3jcpYy31M85H1DLnEEw", "stars": 1, "date": "2013-11-02", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "ycPR0YAso27bEGNZJhRxXQ", "review_id": "U18Bx2BhB1SgaSBYOH5h0w", "text": "Ok, I went during off hours. Like 2:30 pm on a Monday, what can I say I'm a tourist passing though, flight to catch, need a nice lunch, a really nice lunch. \nThe place is beautiful, good music, not too many people there it's off hours. I ordered beet salad, the beets are a little bit icy, almost like ice cubes and then Lobster and steak fried rice, the rice was undercooked. I told the waiter, he was super nice and offered that I tried something else and that he'd be happy to bring it. I didn't. I wanted fried rice. I'll come back here for dinner for sure. I don't think it's fair to judge them by this one experience. Perhaps they should pay attention to their off hours when people\nlike myself might be strolling through. Service was excellent though.", "business_id": "BOp3jcpYy31M85H1DLnEEw", "stars": 3, "date": "2013-11-04", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "AhLm9os7qKkLufxN03IHLg", "review_id": "kmi75PKn0j70_7UWloN73g", "text": "I came here a few days ago on a weeknight with 7 other people. We started out with the appetizer tower which came with crab cakes, calamari and mussels. The crab cakes and calamari were great but the mussels didn't seem to be cooked enough. We also tried some sushi, which was quite good.\n\nOnce our dinner came, everything went downhill. Our waiter disappeared for a good 20 minutes, no one came around to switch out our appetizer silverware for dinner ware, we ordered a second bottle of wine which arrived promptly but they did not change our wine glasses until we asked and had to pour the wine ourselves.\n\nI ordered the Chilean sea bass and was not at all impressed. It seemed too overcooked and doused in the sauce it came with. Halfway through my meal, I had had enough and didn't even want to smell the fish anymore because it was making me sick to my stomach.\n\nOverall, wasn't impressed by the food and our server (James T.) didn't seem to care about us since he was guaranteed a tip anyway. For a place that seems so classy, the experience surely was not. Didn't feel respected as a customer.", "business_id": "BOp3jcpYy31M85H1DLnEEw", "stars": 2, "date": "2013-11-10", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "KsoJJn_UaW7Dm-GPkB247Q", "review_id": "M9M8lG7zVYXyVDd9u0dphg", "text": "So, I've always longed to go to Upstream, but it's definitely out of my price range. Much to my excitement, I won a gift card in a charity fundraiser at work that allowed me to pay them a visit and taste what I might be missing.\n\nMy boyfriend and I went on a Sunday evening at 5:30. We figured we'd miss the crowds that way, and sure enough, it was much emptier than I expected after reading all the reviews. We were promptly seated - the decor was very classy, but not in an overdone way.\n\nOur waiter was very friendly and attentive. He made some very detailed recommendations of food and wine that were accurate, and his subtle jokes and jabs made us feel like we were chatting with a good friend.\n\nWe started off with the chef's choice of oysters - 6 of them. They were delicious but also very small, and I wasn't feeling like we got our money's worth at all. Maybe it was because they were East Coast? Regardless, I wouldn't buy them at that price again.\n\nI was jonesin' for some Asian flair, so I my chosen entree was the Togarashi Dusted Big-Eye Tuna, rare. The tuna was tasty and high quality, and the sauce it was in was pleasurably tangy. The waiter had told me to expect it to be spicy, but I didn't find it spicy at all - maybe the seasoning on the tuna had a subtle kick, but not much. What surprised me most was the rice cake. I was almost as excited about it as the tuna, which is definitely not something I expect for rice! It is a clump of sushi rice that is quickly dipped into a flash-fryer to crisp the outside into something so perfect that I'm considering buying a fryer just to try to replicate it. Combined with the sauce, it was divine. My one complaint about the dish was the pickled veggies that are stacked on top. I thought the sauce was super tangy all by itself - the pickled flavor was just all too much. I couldn't eat them. But I cleaned the rest of my plate happily!\n\nMy boyfriend got the Scottish Salmon, which he also really enjoyed, especially the curry sauce that went along with it. He cleaned his plate completely! He is gluten allergic, and the waiter was very patient to go through the whole menu with him in detail and let him know what could be made gluten-free. They do not have a separate gluten-free menu.\n\nOur bill came out rather high - 2 glasses of wine, 6 oysters, and 2 main courses came out at $90. We weren't concerned with the gift card in tow, but even with the great quality, it seemed kind of steep.\n\nAll in all, if you think a well-rounded meal for 2 at $90 is nothing to sneeze at, then by all means, visit Upstream! Otherwise, I'd save it for a special occasion.", "business_id": "BOp3jcpYy31M85H1DLnEEw", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-09-02", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "eSDGCxFl8zGdObgnSyiBLw", "review_id": "ByQocuF5Zu7J2oqrKM7XUQ", "text": "Upstream is probably thought of as one of the best restaurants in Charlotte. I am from Philadelphia where there are excellent restaurants with iron chefs so my viewpoint may be a bit skewed. The food was good but not great or amazing. Every dish (except the house salad) was over salted. My husband had the tuna and I had the seabass. They were both very good but as I said before not great. We would go there again but for sushi/raw items not necessarily the cooked menu items. The salad was was the highlight for me (house salad) and the crab bisque was pretty tasty too. Overall the service was very good but slow. Our waiter was one of the most knowledgeable wait staff we have encountered since moving from PA.", "business_id": "BOp3jcpYy31M85H1DLnEEw", "stars": 3, "date": "2014-10-21", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "X5QYulpMFNbZYRzlJsbczw", "review_id": "qS-Sd3hXFJSQZxV5KHC37w", "text": "Great food! Great service! Our waiter was Christopher, and he was fantastic! He recommended excellent entrees, apps and wine that exceeded our expectations. We recently moved to Charlotte from NYC, and this is by far the best restaurant we've dined so far. The sea bass is almost as good as NOBU and the tuna... OMG!! Your mouth will love you, trust me. Enjoy .", "business_id": "BOp3jcpYy31M85H1DLnEEw", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-11-08", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "LxQ9zhPfvPfoMisbiAxNfg", "review_id": "FNkLCp01MZXUYDpcVTzv-g", "text": "I came to Charlotte on a business trip and checked out yelp and picked this restaurant. I had a reservation for 7:30 but was not seated till 8:05. I ordered the lobster and it was not fresh. The server was fantastic but not the lady in the front. Horrible customer service and just gave me this attitude. Whatever, this is the last time I am coming to this place even on my next trip. The 3 star is for the appetizer and the server's excellent service.", "business_id": "BOp3jcpYy31M85H1DLnEEw", "stars": 3, "date": "2014-11-08", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "8certomS2xullsIXzLzL8A", "review_id": "OKWyRkk1zUxvAfH8aNk3Ww", "text": "I came to upstream for their Thanksgiving buffet. The service was excellent. They were running behind due to a power outage earlier that day but the staff was handling it well. If I ate hear again I would defiantly order items from the raw bar. The oysters and crab claws were delicious. The shrimp and clams were fresh and I enjoyed their cocktail sauce. I loved their Cesar salad with homemade croutons. I tried some sushi but the rice was underdone and dry. I would try it again considering it was a buffet. Overall I was very happy with the buffet and would love to come back and try their regular menu.", "business_id": "BOp3jcpYy31M85H1DLnEEw", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-11-28", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "E4-lxS36_PSzy17b4a-Hkg", "review_id": "LIGOqjlLGEuB53Fbq8QhIA", "text": "Thanksgving? At Upstream?\n\nThey were open and served up an extravaganza and if this is any indication of their famed Sunday brunch I need to hustle over to Upstream this weekend.\n\nThe all you can eat buffet is pricey ($40) but I think I ate that much in oysters alone.\n\nOfferings ran the gamete from delicious looking cheese plates and salads (I say looking because I didn't sample - saving my stomach space for...) the raw bar, mussels, clams, crab legs, oysters, shrimp, smoked salmon, several types of sushi.....etc etc etc.\n\nAlso five carving stations including traditional turkey but ranging to delicious Scottish salmon. Sides were a star, I loved the stuffing with duck sausage and the unexpected pairing of butternut squash and cherries. Also, the shrimp and grits. I went back just for a bowl-full.\n\nDesserts were lovely but not as epic as the raw bar and included an actual gelato cart rolled in for the occasion, bread pudding, cobblers, blondies, pie - you know the drill its Thanksgiving, roll out of there.\n\nService was conscientious and over the top helpful in a non-cloying not-fake way.\n\ni've had many a nice meal at Upstream over the years and they really out did themselves with their Thanksgiving buffet.", "business_id": "BOp3jcpYy31M85H1DLnEEw", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-11-28", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "7RBNDW7U2g_TRjjvephuCg", "review_id": "vg3jvb_iPo9Kt1lyy1w4xQ", "text": "Coming from Boston, we have sort of high expectations for seafood. My husband ordered Sea Bass and I, the Grouper, and it was perfectly cooked and delicious. Our server was extremely friendly and gave us his honest feedback of not only his favorite dishes, but of almost every single thing on the menu. They also have a very nice wine selection (we are big fans of Burgundy whites). We left with very happy bellies and had a wonderful time! It does however, seem to be a bit overpriced.", "business_id": "BOp3jcpYy31M85H1DLnEEw", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-09-18", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "6pRFdWvGFUxjq8wq44RlTQ", "review_id": "1ZOPcMWsqoa526QQ2mu-Sw", "text": "Nice place for cocktails after dinner. We didn't eat here but nice atmosphere and great service for after dinner get together.", "business_id": "BOp3jcpYy31M85H1DLnEEw", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-09-18", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "HBYcZjvdfRcxGy1dqi0brw", "review_id": "mDn7G7U8RRDrVbDpwp8U7w", "text": "Overpriced for the quality. \n\nI only had sushi and oysters so can't speak for the rest of the menu but overall I was dissapointed with Upstream. \n\nThe sushi rolls were mediocre at best and their version of New Style sashimi was pretty terrible. It was basically dried out, overly thin and the flavor was not good. \n\nThe only saving grace was that it was happy hour and according to the menu the items marked with an * were half price.... Or so I thought until the bill came. Turns out the sushi menu is very misleading and it was full price which amounted to just less than $90 for two rolls, a poorly prepared salmon sashimi and half dozen oysters which I left the selection to the server who of course picked the \"non happy hour\" ones...\n\nI've paid $200 for omakase at sushi restaurants out west and happy to do so if the quality is right but this was way off the mark. \n\nDefinitely wouldn't recommend as I assume there must be better quality sushi in the Charlotte area. \n\nI gave it 2 stars instead of one because the service from the waitsatff was very good despite the food.", "business_id": "BOp3jcpYy31M85H1DLnEEw", "stars": 2, "date": "2015-10-22", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "b1Aih-LmXFbY5wO1u2CHHQ", "review_id": "s0FVKrPLbZWQ8d9qqlpOPQ", "text": "A really nice place to come and get good sushi. I've never sat in the main dining room but the bar area is perfectly nice for a quick meal. The cocktails are fantastic and the food is awesome as well. The sushi list has a lot of variety and the Parmesan fries are one of my favorites to start! I'd recommend upstream to everyone!", "business_id": "BOp3jcpYy31M85H1DLnEEw", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-11-22", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "yUkWGeu4B6OGE-7GNlYrjA", "review_id": "PirkXZ2tktS_-RZNy_Jeiw", "text": "Tops: Ambiance, particularly on a cold winter night. Wine list - well balanced and fairly priced. Sitting at the bar listening to music - you could do it all night. \n\nFood: Good, but can be a bit over-rich at times and it is not cheap. Desserts are uber. \n\nService: For me, it has always been good.", "business_id": "koRLvzIl-4fCybOIdk56jA", "stars": 4, "date": "2008-10-04", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "z-q4z2RLP-d-FqvGnNJbtA", "review_id": "JVrGn1gjDLr4c2aDke9IXQ", "text": "Not knock your socks off but good. Atmosphere in the downstairs dining room is nice quiet. A good place to go with friends and have a conversation. I had the escargot which was good -- could have had a little more garlic. Red beans & rice was especially good. Salad was average. For out of towners staying at the \"big box\" motels at the edge of town this place is way better than the chain restaurants around the motels and well worth the short walk into town (maybe not in winter).", "business_id": "koRLvzIl-4fCybOIdk56jA", "stars": 3, "date": "2008-11-06", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 3, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "GxKnzeyCMPflSIXzN7ey3A", "review_id": "Y1esjrYEnPYGUzfXstQkCQ", "text": "All our friends had raved about the food & ambiance, so my wife & I finally decided to try Louisianne's. The decor is indeed cozy- like a nicely made-up cellar. There was plenty of room at the bar so we sat there before our reservation time arrived. Only two beers on tap, but both good local brews from Capital. \nEventually sat at our table & perused the menu. Found many appetizers that sounded really good (including one of the specials that night) so we decided on sharing 2 apps and one entree... seemed like a good way to try a few items without getting too much food.\nApp #1 (the special): gnocchi in a savory cream sauce with crawfish was very tasty. Seemed a bit light in the gnocchi (I think there were 5 or 6) but made up for it in sauce. Two thumbs way up.\nApp #2: mussels in cream sauce... I had asked about the size of the mussels ahead of time and was told they were medium to large. They were in fact medium to small, which was a bit of a bummer because we probably would have gone with a different app had we known. But the flavors were good & we enjoyed sopping up the sauce with the bread. And the bread they serve is quite good. Two thumbs up.\nEntree: Crawfish Etouffe... I was excited to try this as I hadn't had etouffe in years. It wasn't bad, but it wasn't great either. If you went to a friend's house for dinner and they served this you'd be psyched, but at an upscale Cajun restaurant for $20 you may be left underwhelmed. Two thumbs halfway up. The salad that came with was fresh mesclun greens, with a bleu cheese dressing that was chunky but bland.\nMidway thru our meal the jazz combo started up and sounded really good- definitely added to the atmosphere. For dessert we shared a slice of key lime pie... nice-tasting but no great shakes. It seemed to be thickened with gelatin and I suppose I prefer mine to be creamier, plus it was lacking in zing, but only mildly. Again, if your friend served it you'd rightfully congratulate them but for $6.50 it should be REALLY good.\nOur server was very nice & professional. Absolutely no complaints there.\nThe nicest surprise came with the bill- only $70... and that included 5 drinks.\nWe have concluded that the next time we go we'll sit in the bar area and have drinks & apps.", "business_id": "koRLvzIl-4fCybOIdk56jA", "stars": 4, "date": "2010-09-20", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "tpd1sxBuNgRaJcEYUQL2PQ", "review_id": "CxBfCjnKPRuDIkzXUaCWPw", "text": "Crazy good food, excellent wine list, text book waitstaff. Best atmosphere for date night! Not good for kids. Make a reservation!!", "business_id": "koRLvzIl-4fCybOIdk56jA", "stars": 5, "date": "2010-09-27", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 4, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "QENthJkaA1UOyRcx3HVpKQ", "review_id": "9FQQxVdSk_4xuqIBzvUN9g", "text": "Yelpers, you let me down! \n\nI was on my business trip to WI, and i was very excited about trying this restaurant! boy, it was a huge disappointment. \n\nhave crab puff pastry as appetizer. this was pretty decent dish. the puff pasty came out flaky, just how it should be. i could taste the crab flavor and almond crisps. it was very delicious. \n\nI also ordered the lobster bisque. bisque was on the salty side, but it was ok with the bread. i wish i could have stopped my meal here.... \n\nEveryone on yelp was raving about their raspberry sauce on the house salad. so i ordered that just to try the raspberry dressing, and huge disappointment. it came with this layer of oil, and not enough \"sauce\". when i poured onto my salad it was just drenched in oil. i didn't even eat the salad. \n\nI had the steak special of the night and it was not good at all! the meat was over cooked charred (i like my meat medium rare), the rice was undercooked, it was crunch, and the sauce was not good at all, it did not compliment the dish. i only ate the shrimp. it was $35 dish i only picked shrimp from it\n\nThe service was soooooo slow that night. usually i enjoy my meals like these but that night i wanted just GET OUT OF THERE! the server took forever to bring out my dishes and i was getting really impatient. for the amount of time at was at the table, she didn't come by to check up on me when i needed anything. ugh. never again.", "business_id": "koRLvzIl-4fCybOIdk56jA", "stars": 2, "date": "2011-10-20", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "ISwiZNOXrgxlLfVZsGBUww", "review_id": "_LzAvouyQOmUpu_Fei97og", "text": "Emeril Lagasse would have been disappointed. There was no Bam! during our visit to Louisianne's on 9/10/13.\n\nThe good: my wife's company, the wine list, the evening's piano player, the salad, and the crawfish corn chowder.\n\nThe bad: the thick, yellow, and salty cream sauce our mussels swam in and the worn out carpet on the stairs leading down to the restaurant.\n\nThe ugly: The not so special blackened swordfish entr\u00e9e with salty sides and the shrimp etouffee. The classic Cajun dish was a generous amount of white rice with salty ketchup sauce. :-(", "business_id": "koRLvzIl-4fCybOIdk56jA", "stars": 2, "date": "2013-09-11", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "G9hJKtbULZs8iZmbE545lw", "review_id": "s6TKXDkzihTGGn05wjcNbA", "text": "Steps are a bit hard for us oldies but the food made up for it. Three of us, our son has been there before, thought mom and dad should too..Started with mussels, and crab puffs, both were so good, we went through three baskets of bread with them. The raspberry dressing on salad was a bit tart, my only complaint, and one had soup.I had the duck , which was super good, one had the seafood au gratin, and one etouffee...we were all pleased and all took home left overs.........We split a piece of the peanut butter pie...and one had coffee..we had a fun time drove 70 miles to get there.", "business_id": "koRLvzIl-4fCybOIdk56jA", "stars": 5, "date": "2013-09-15", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "whQv-CPMQC5Ia7p7-c-h9w", "review_id": "sz3vax-yr104diI1-WCo_A", "text": "We enjoyed our visit to this restaurant however the waitress makes or breaks the evening. More on that later.\n\nWe started at the bar and the bar tender was super cool. He made a fantastic Sazerac, one of the oldest cocktails in the USA. The four of us admired the decor of the establishment in addition to the fun columns throughout that separated the patrons making it a more private experience. This place is in a basement and the columns separate everyone, different than all the open air structures these days.\n\nWe had reservations and were seated about 10 minutes late however we were flexible. The waitress was not very friendly and did not smile. She was making the motions. Likely tired because it was Badger Homecoming Saturday and they were busy. We were celebrating a birthday and asked if they did anything special. She said I don't know and can check. When she came back she said if you buy a desert, we can put a candle in it. What?? What restaurant does not do something for a birthday. Oh well, move on...\n\nEach of us DID enjoy our meal. We had the Crawfish Cheesecake for appetizer. It was like a cheesecake? Different and good. Two of us ordered separate specials and the other two ordered items off the menu. None of us could finish and we enjoyed leftovers the next day. The food was rich and heavy, comfort food like. If you are on a diet you'd need to be selective because no calories are spared here.\n\nIn summary a happy waitress and a little birthday treat and this place would be through the roof!", "business_id": "koRLvzIl-4fCybOIdk56jA", "stars": 3, "date": "2013-10-15", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "togogXGeT9kKaMNXtgmC7g", "review_id": "sjQxKIdhrhwbRTvn8XVt_Q", "text": "Stopped in for a drink on Monday night. A few observations:\n Drinks: My martini and cosmopolitans were delicious. S. really enjoyed his whisky sour. Drinks were very good.\n Food: For an appetizer, we ordered the crab cakes. I had the Pecan-Encrusted Catfish and the seafood bisque, and S. had the pork entree and the pork and sweet potato soup. We were both very impressed. I don't even eat meat, but I tried S.'s pork entree and it was A M A Z I N G. And I can't say enough good things about the catfish. I was so glad to have some left over, which I ate cold the next morning! \n Service: Our server was so, so wonderful. I wish I could remember his name. Young guy, dark hair, thin. He recommended essentially all of our food to us, and we were happy with all of it. The bartender also came by and checked to make sure I liked my cosmo (I wasn't sure I'd like it). She was quite friendly.\n\nWill definitely go back the next time we are in Madison.", "business_id": "koRLvzIl-4fCybOIdk56jA", "stars": 4, "date": "2013-10-23", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "kcQPtldWJhsuGZaNEEVEMg", "review_id": "nnLRdLJH_QLWgNAtth8V0Q", "text": "The food was good but it only gets one star because I was overcharged for a salmon \"special\" that the server said was $18 but I was charge $27.95. I didn't realize this until I went over the bill at home so I called in and they said I was wrong. I called the other diners that were with me and asked them how much the salmon special was without telling them my story yet, and they both remembered it being $18. \n\nThe other negative thing about it was the noise level. Very loud. Still I would have gone back if they hadn't overcharged me because the food was good.", "business_id": "koRLvzIl-4fCybOIdk56jA", "stars": 1, "date": "2013-10-25", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "iFL3l2pZ5PsmTmyMymYnwQ", "review_id": "aJQctGQQUQJDf5ALxobv7w", "text": "Found this little gem of a place while in Madison last weekend.\n\nThe restaurant is in the basement of a building which you access through an outside stairwell on the side. A cheerful hostess greeted us as we descended the stairs into the restaurant. \n\nWe were seated in an area where we couldn't see the piano, but we could hear it. The live music and singing were very soft and relaxing. The mood lighting is dark but warm, and along with the decor gives this place a nice, cozy, romantic feel.\n\nWe had an 8:30 pm dinner reservation, so most of the people already there were finishing up as we came in. So this made for a nice, quiet, charming evening after the day's noise and hustle.\n\nI ordered the Crawfish Etouffee and my date ordered the Seafood Au Gratin. The Etouffee was SUPURB. Not too spicy, but just enough. Lots of marvelous flavor, and a good sized portion served on a plate surrounded by white rice. \n\nThe Seafood Au Gratin was OUTSTANDING. The cheese sauce was very hearty and rich, served over linguini pasta. \n\nThe food took a little on the long side to come out, but it was well worth the wait. The waitress was cheerful and attentive, and the manager stopped by to check on us, which is always appreciated. \n\nWe walked out of there well-fed and very happy. If you're looking for a charming restaurant for a nice evening out, Louisianne's is the place.", "business_id": "koRLvzIl-4fCybOIdk56jA", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-11-12", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "b6xV8XSEY3k_RUlSn7iZTA", "review_id": "n7Qq_KLn1lneK7pQ2xzWZQ", "text": "Only been here a couple of times but the food is amazing. Very good. The restaurant is a bit loud though, and quite expensive, hard to go to often due to the cost.", "business_id": "koRLvzIl-4fCybOIdk56jA", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-09-27", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "8CH5k4GzQtzwbfT-bog99g", "review_id": "7iONgR_L60sBpO66XkUctQ", "text": "This place reminds me of a wine cellar atmosphere where the restaurant feels like it's located in the basement. You're pretty much wrapped by brick walls and stuccoed ceiling making the temperature nice and cool and the acoustics of the piano playing music reverberates throughout the restaurant. \n\nService is superb. She started with the daily specials and they have a great selection of wines. I had the gumbo for starters. I have been to New Orleans and I would say their gumbo came closed to how I remembered having it (maybe missing some okra). \n\nFor my main course, I had the maple duck over rice. The duck was cooked perfectly. You judge the skills set of a chef by how they cook lamb, scallops, duck and rabbit. The only thing I would change in my dish is replace the green peppers with more of a squash and bring the salt down a notch.", "business_id": "koRLvzIl-4fCybOIdk56jA", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-10-07", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "uYN1ZrTM0hFcYuyXstAhLQ", "review_id": "VEFqOcbC3A1BiYkW5agT6Q", "text": "Completely disgusting! Best decision would have been to turn around and leave at the initial sight of the deplorably filthy carpeting on the stairs to the restautant!! The carpet in the restaurant is equally filthy! Makes you wonder what the kitchen looks like. Totally bad exoerience, will NEVER return!", "business_id": "koRLvzIl-4fCybOIdk56jA", "stars": 1, "date": "2015-11-01", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "atctfIstoOXt5VgG6fzvOQ", "review_id": "FaYdrlCCyXS5fhX0yoLatA", "text": "Arguably the best thing about Madison. Real. Legit. Not Playing. Close your eyes, bite into the shrimp etouffee, and you feel like the gulf is close.", "business_id": "cpGv6ES2hzPCtCUQgipwXw", "stars": 5, "date": "2007-10-07", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 3, "useful": 3, "cool": 2}, "user_id": "ZYaumz29bl9qHpu-KVtMGA", "review_id": "fwO-CPsGR3q0UTHxIAPvxA", "text": "I've never been to New Orleans, so I don't know if that makes me somehow less qualified to review this place. But, I suspect a fair amount of people have never been to China, and it doesn't stop them from reviewing PF Changs.\n\nANYWAY, the thing about NOTO whenever I have eaten there is that I am always expecting it to be way greater than it really is because of the way people talk about it. I am always expecting this transcendent experience, but really, all I get is a styrofoam container of some spicy slop that really has no real flavor underneath the initial tongue shock of cayenne pepper.", "business_id": "cpGv6ES2hzPCtCUQgipwXw", "stars": 1, "date": "2008-10-17", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "ke-FCDxbWKN4jF68tj8iIA", "review_id": "k7RYDOWq8fVE2YmpopffDg", "text": "One of my all time favorite places in Madison; I like it so much that I had them cater my wedding. I have been eating at NOTO for at least 20 years, and the food is consistently good. I always have a hard time deciding what to get... the shrimp etouffee? A shrimp po' boy with Creole sauce? Or one of the daily specials like the pecan fish or the Cajun meatballs? The cornbread is also worth noting for its yumminess.", "business_id": "cpGv6ES2hzPCtCUQgipwXw", "stars": 5, "date": "2009-09-16", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "1F7vgaLA0qyRApl4MiEprw", "review_id": "pQNWS7qeD42kBQzJgL31Ug", "text": "I'm a total foodie and Chicago is great for me except we don't have NOTO. The best of the best for Creole/Cajun. Lived down south, been to N'awlins many times when I was a kid in the 70's. NOTO is the best hands down. Wish some adventuresome entrepreneur would migrate NOTO down to Chicago. It would be a huge success I am sure. We don't have anything that is even close to as good so we have to make our own or take a trip up to Madison! :)", "business_id": "cpGv6ES2hzPCtCUQgipwXw", "stars": 5, "date": "2009-11-16", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 2}, "user_id": "eXIskwLm8NWcctCPTk6Opg", "review_id": "ybPUmyp38Y-vVacrkva_hw", "text": "Ever since my husband (native to Madison) took me here, I always make several trips out from Chicago every year... otherwise my cravings for the Shrimp Creole, Red Beans and Rice with double sausage, Gumbo, Chicken Po' Boy, Jambalaya, and really anything else Roussos has got goin' on that day....will cause me to go into NOTO withdrawal. Oh! And who can forget the Panola hot sauce he uses! There is so much soul in this food and super flavor, but really it's Roussos' own personal touch that makes it so unique. The food is truly special. So get yo' self out to NOTO but make sure to bring your appetite!", "business_id": "cpGv6ES2hzPCtCUQgipwXw", "stars": 5, "date": "2009-11-16", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "vKJNf7GNOGw2OGgW03bY6A", "review_id": "yG6hClioijasdayTox6rJw", "text": "Since I lived in Madison (about 8 years ago) the po' boys at NOTO have haunted me! The pursuit of a po' boy as good as this has eluded me through 4 cities and countless \"nope, not as good\"s. I'm such a fan I bought a tank top on my last visit!\n\nPerfect bread, perfect seasonings - be it oyster, shrimp, crawfish or chicken. Whenever I'm back in Madison (which is, unfortunately, rarely, I take friends to get a \"sandwich as big as yo head\" and they never leave disappointed.\n\nAs I remember it, NOTO is that kind of hole in the wall place that newcomers hesitate to try out. My advice - do it! As much as I love these sandwiches I hardly ever order them out anymore because I know they will never be as good as at New Orleans Take Out in Madison, WI.", "business_id": "cpGv6ES2hzPCtCUQgipwXw", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-10-15", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "FnlELEMlXcqe2dVPht6sdg", "review_id": "ECJOp7JuNo51CNeNv1EPWw", "text": "I love the food here. Love the vibe.", "business_id": "cpGv6ES2hzPCtCUQgipwXw", "stars": 4, "date": "2011-10-23", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 3, "useful": 3, "cool": 2}, "user_id": "bJu5pXLZppRnKpNbTrIeFA", "review_id": "hIY2ja4eqIskARCY7eD-_w", "text": "Allow me to express my undying love for New Orleans Take-Out. \n\nI lived in Madison almost 8 years ago and have yet to find another shrimp po' boy even remotely close to the delicacy at NOTO. It's one of those hole in the wall places that looks scary and not hygienic on the outside but is completely amazing and totally worth it. \n\nI remember the first time my dad took me for a \"sandwich as big as yo head.\" I had just taken the ACT as a 6th grader and afterwards all I was really capable of was mumbling simple sentences. I remember being surprised that dad wasn't kidding, the sandwich really was as big as my head. And that it was like, really awesome. My fam were instantly regulars.\n\n8 years and 3 citites later, the search continues. I'm not even asking for a better sandwich (I don't think one exists), but one that's just as good (it seems like that doesn't exist either).\n\nOh and if this review sounds similar to the one by Sheena F. it's because she's my sister. It's a family obsession.", "business_id": "cpGv6ES2hzPCtCUQgipwXw", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-11-09", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "NKW8eK5jDWmtXoU-IMngXg", "review_id": "JYYiAT3pjHNnfOgTrD2TfA", "text": "I love NOTO the shrimp Po'Boy has alway been my favorite item. But the Crab Cakes are also excellent. The pimento cream sause is to die for. i cant say enough about this place. Have always been very satisfied!!! my whole family loves it.", "business_id": "cpGv6ES2hzPCtCUQgipwXw", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-11-28", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "Ffa864LL90s6oxImKPI7pw", "review_id": "niaNODkq-uUqs4xE92IPlA", "text": "Hubby had the fish with pecans, and LOVED it.\nI, on the other hand had an absolutely pitiful shrimp Po Boy. Big ole piece of bread, 8 shrimp set on the bread to try to cover space (it doesn't), smidge of lettuce (not necessarily a bad thing), and mushy disgusting tomatoes. Take a bite, and all you taste is bread. Never again.", "business_id": "cpGv6ES2hzPCtCUQgipwXw", "stars": 2, "date": "2013-11-29", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "rLV1tH7IjI7MNNK647X1WQ", "review_id": "rnhnFc9UzpsvMJ2n-0kUwQ", "text": "My first time here and I ordered the fired oysters. It's as advertised, lightly breaded and the oyster still soft on the inside. Very well done. Got the dirty rice as well but it's not what I remember from 'nawlins. Didn't really have that chicken giblet taste or odor to it nor did it have small bits of cruchy chicken gizzards. I was really looking forward to crunching gizzards. :-( \n\nThey have a variety of drinks but if you want a simple coke, you have to use the vending machine outside. That was kinda weird.\n\nAll in all, it's far better than just 3 stars (Its OK) because it's better than OK. It's good.", "business_id": "cpGv6ES2hzPCtCUQgipwXw", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-10-22", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "rLV1tH7IjI7MNNK647X1WQ", "review_id": "F8zos0KoDYRLxI4uFNJAhQ", "text": "Ok. I should've read deeper because it is a Vegan dirty rice. Having that pointed out to me, then I retract what I said about it. Doesn't change my live for the real one though.", "business_id": "cpGv6ES2hzPCtCUQgipwXw", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-11-05", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "e8uACQUSzZ4qyZI-7o5rLg", "review_id": "agnBS8Olc6lcHx4wZhyIYw", "text": "I am floored at the fact that there are a few people who said the food was \"flavorless.\" They are ridiculous. I love the east side location. I get the crawfish etoufee with corn bread and extra rice because it's so spicy!!! But the flavor is unmatched. The spice is sinus clearing, and the amazing flavor is so worth it! I have had nothing but great experiences with NOTO, and I will definitely keep coming back!", "business_id": "cpGv6ES2hzPCtCUQgipwXw", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-09-08", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "uH94fyG1rNqxq6zzL8RH0w", "review_id": "imBD8SHWXJVCe9r7lAzA0Q", "text": "I'm from South Florida and we know good food so while in Wisconsin for training for work and wanted to eat really good food and this spot did not dissappoint. Although I couldn't try everything I did have the Etouff\u00e9 and as long as you like spice this is hands down 1 thing you need to order. Plus the employees are very pleasant people. Wish I had found this place early in my trip.", "business_id": "cpGv6ES2hzPCtCUQgipwXw", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-10-29", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "IYylj_zqL7rnODqET1AB8g", "review_id": "5ipslf49A7nfKvyL2c_Fdw", "text": "love their special biscuit, soft and delicious. the seafood is fresh and nice. endless shrimp is a great choice.", "business_id": "v5a-Mj4eO1E--HmgwEWo7A", "stars": 5, "date": "2013-09-06", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "-4XngkRlxU_E1XFhclDHww", "review_id": "HQ_7tHPB73Oh0WEaXz2u-A", "text": "I tried this place many years ago and said I would not be coming back. Yes it is a chain and usually chain places are not great but they're also not horrible. I tried it again recently since the hubby had never been there. We've just decided that we are never going back. everything was drenched in butter. Why did it take 45 minutes for our food to get there? I was so thirsty by the end of the evening because everything was so salty. Even the cooks messed up the steak order at the table next to us. This must be their way of making money on drinks. Save yourself the trip, if you're paying this much for mediocre seafood, might as well try a nicer place downtown.", "business_id": "v5a-Mj4eO1E--HmgwEWo7A", "stars": 1, "date": "2015-10-14", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "ie6pO3q0pnJWSTBvlU9zJA", "review_id": "KTEa5E9APz8wvp3yxIcJ0g", "text": "Went there for their all you can eat shrimp promotion. Glad we made a reservation, as they were packed at 6:30 p.m. on Sat. We were seated promptly. Waitress was great. When she delivered one order of shrimp to all, she took order for the next round as they are made fresh. Cheesey biscuits are delish. You get a smaller portion of smaller shrimp each time, but that's fine. Get a good variety of recipes, garlic scampi, coconut, fried and alfredo. Last year they had sriracha which were good too. Good sides too, I had fresh green beans. Even though it was busy, waitresses handled all of her tables well.", "business_id": "v5a-Mj4eO1E--HmgwEWo7A", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-11-16", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "6H3X_SUEDjPTEvB4KDwsvg", "review_id": "xVZ24JdW7TDrGvJU-B5FpQ", "text": "The biscuits. Seriously! That's why I come. The rest of the food is pretty good too but nothing beats the biscuits. As far as the rest of the food, tried something new and got the lobster artichoke dip. It was really good however the chips were extremely salty. I got the caesar side salad. Good but a little heavy on the dressing. Then came the ultimate feast. I wasn't really hungry at this point but leftover seafood isn't great. The shrimp, lobster and crab were great. I didn't try the rice and I only ate a couple of fries which were also very salty. As far as the service it was pretty good. Took a little long to be greeted and get our waters but it wasn't horrible.", "business_id": "v5a-Mj4eO1E--HmgwEWo7A", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-11-23", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "rlcJkEoYzuiS7iF5XfXCMA", "review_id": "8vAvMVoCB7iU1BeHabB44Q", "text": "Came here for lunch yesterday. We got the Shrimp quesadilla which was packed full of shrimp! and the Paella which was really tasty and packed full of mussels, octopus, a crab leg.. Unexpectedly good. They also have Micheladas, which I love, though I'm glad that she clarified that it's made with Clamato, because I just want the lime juice, salt, and beer, so had them hold the clamato. They won best chips and salsa from the New Times in 2004, but I thought the chips as well as the fish taco I got tasted like the fryer oil needed to be changed out :(", "business_id": "VKxn7zmp8nOYT-ZHFZTjgA", "stars": 4, "date": "2010-10-11", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "VeyC7wTfvjkQiVh5YQ3Bog", "review_id": "exqTvtWM_tANlglUxwg3qA", "text": "Great place for Mariscos in AZ!!! Seriously this place has the best ceviche in town it rivals with my favorite spot in Mexico. The tostadas de ceviche come with sliced avocado on top, which is delicious. I have had their fish & shrimp tacos and they are delicious as well. I've also had their margaritas and micheladas they are the perfect drinks to enjoy with Mariscos!! if you are not used to traditional Mexican seafood this place might not be for you.... they have a jukebox which is always playing Spanish music which is awesome if you were raised with this type of music. The prices are pretty reasonable as well for the amount of food you get. I truly enjoy the food and service here!!! Be adventurous and check it out!!!", "business_id": "VKxn7zmp8nOYT-ZHFZTjgA", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-10-14", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "bWdkyh5Ax9Nl86qCuyjQng", "review_id": "m9VRy1be2brdWyFUelRn1A", "text": "Loved this place! It's convenient to my home in Coronado, nicely priced and delicious. Definitely going back for the beer specials.", "business_id": "VKxn7zmp8nOYT-ZHFZTjgA", "stars": 4, "date": "2012-11-01", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "EynhUSt-jmNEG_edn-EQRA", "review_id": "9xoKP30CALgJDzO2FvhX9w", "text": "Fantastic seafood at a very good price!", "business_id": "VKxn7zmp8nOYT-ZHFZTjgA", "stars": 5, "date": "2012-11-04", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "T10fwLKcy_9goMznW8mA1A", "review_id": "CM2j77nHuj93ZzpGzB0UbA", "text": "I really hate giving bad reviews, but the seafood was terrible here. You could tell we were eating old shrimp. The salmon was also old and had a super strong, fish odor. Cost was too expensive. We paid $50 for two dinners one pop and one margarita. The salsa was just ok. The only thing that was good was the margarita, but I went there for seafood. Very disappointing.", "business_id": "VKxn7zmp8nOYT-ZHFZTjgA", "stars": 1, "date": "2013-09-22", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "YF_TUZA73urYzSltE9q2RA", "review_id": "5mYeL-4OVYO42dHrYHm4Tg", "text": "Some of the best stuffed fish I've ever had. Their variety is ridiculous, this was our first time and we will definitely be coming back.", "business_id": "VKxn7zmp8nOYT-ZHFZTjgA", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-09-11", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "V4d50mLK0pPcposUw45hrA", "review_id": "soNWDp1v-0MFRey5MISTnA", "text": "This was one of my first introductions to Sonoran style seafood and it is still one of my favorites! My favorites are the ceviche verde de camaron, which is so far the only place in Phoenix I found this at, the pescado mojo de ajo and anything with smoked marlin. I have not had a bad thing there yet and been going there since about 1998. This is how I like to eat in Mexico and glad to know I don't have to wait to go there to enjoy some good Sonoran sea food.", "business_id": "VKxn7zmp8nOYT-ZHFZTjgA", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-10-01", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "e3V9YwSln5wR22uiLSeJEg", "review_id": "_k2C-JncDjS6WIgyZhIJNw", "text": "1st time here, was recommended by reviews on @Calle16PHX instagram. Love this street and the latin culture feel it has. Went in on a Sat. afternoon their service was pretty fast. Had an appetizer of the Toritos, shrimp & fish tacos and tostada de agua chile (green) and a shrimp tostada. A friend and I tried a little of each which we weren't disappointed and the Micheladas we're good! Plus a $15 gift certificate I had made it all worth it :) will definitelty come again.", "business_id": "VKxn7zmp8nOYT-ZHFZTjgA", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-10-12", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "iSPPZD5OX4hjFi7WGGvDxg", "review_id": "GVP2JmkqY7KvV5E3SeotUw", "text": "The shrimp ceviche with avocado on top is delicious. Also had the shrimp taco which was good but nothing out of this world. Will definitely be back to try some more. Service was great too!", "business_id": "VKxn7zmp8nOYT-ZHFZTjgA", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-10-26", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "r7VFDbJTGYQC6xJb4-jEvQ", "review_id": "sjnfcMUhZrW7dtBOAZ3UgQ", "text": "Good seafood I had a campechana it had plenty of seafood my wife had aguachile she wasn't a big fan of it. But we order a ceviche tostado first and that was really good and fresh. I also order a chelada with a Tecate Light with extra salt it was good!", "business_id": "VKxn7zmp8nOYT-ZHFZTjgA", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-10-29", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 2}, "user_id": "_LEQt7oTVjiaXyVHK_MM7g", "review_id": "sSmJ_-kOj-qOtT1jFap9gQ", "text": "Ahem, it's called San Carlos BAY seafood restaurant. \n\nAnyway, this is my favorite restaurant in Phoenix. The seafood is out of this world. I normally only order one dish, the Shrimp in Garlic sauce, and it never ever disappoints. Tortilla, beans and fries come with...but the real kick in the pants? When that delicious sauce marinates everything on the plate, making the fries all garlicky and moist...MMMMM...I can't wrap it all up in the tortilla and shove it into my mouth fast enough. \n\nI also highly recommend ordering a shrimp or seven seas cocktail as the perfect starter. \n\nMy family has been coming here for years, it's not in the best neighborhood. Last time we were here the place got robbed. No one was hurt, staff casually called the police, I'm guessing this had happened before. I was just glad the shrimp were okay.\n\nBut don't let that deter you! If you like seafood and mexican food you will be in hog (cerdo?) heaven! Mariachis on the weekends too...(just don't be that guy that requests they play La Bamba).", "business_id": "NYBx4sdSVrN-I5Q8RfLMPg", "stars": 5, "date": "2007-11-07", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "QwO4LVCiPZZdg5URrQfYpw", "review_id": "fQ1DyMq_thczwSIsseFRBA", "text": "I am indeed a fan. If you're down for some mariscos in Central Phoenix you should defitely try it out. Reasonable prices for good food. The mariscos are the upper end of the menu. There are also cheaper texmex items if you are in the snacking mood. They recently began accepting credit cards. Nice wait staff. Pleasant.", "business_id": "NYBx4sdSVrN-I5Q8RfLMPg", "stars": 4, "date": "2008-09-01", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "2ZMHNctqg2z4yv7KS51XYw", "review_id": "kib2p3T53gv44HsjrMvnfA", "text": "Whenever I fly back to Arizona, about twice a year, I drive straight from Sky Harbor to San Carlos Bay. For fifteen years I have kept this tradition. The chips and salsa are perfect, mariachis drifting around, real families and workers on their lunch breaks. All the seafood is perfect, especially the ceviche. The soups are amazing. For the kids, I get fried shrimp with french fries, and they're the best fried shrimp you'll ever eat. Flying into PHX, I dream of this and am never disappointed: a cold Pacifico beer with those tiny, tart Mexican limes and a whole fried snapper endiablados style. \n\nThe neighborhood looks like a place you'd go to pawn your grandma's walker or sell a hot catalytic converter, but inside San Carlos Bay, you'll think you're eating on the square in Guymas!", "business_id": "NYBx4sdSVrN-I5Q8RfLMPg", "stars": 5, "date": "2008-10-01", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "4mRx2noRJ1FFRPlzSVEEdQ", "review_id": "GN_fxSYSKQqNBM1skN1_xA", "text": "Sea of Cortez style Mexican food. Doesn't get much better than this.\n\nThe Shrimp Cuilici (sp) is the signature dish and the item I order the most. It consists of shrimp baked in a creamy pepper sauce with a layer of cheese. It all blends together in a gooey goodness that you can spoon over tortillas.\n\nAll the seafood is awesome there, cooked in several styles. I love Mexican food and I love seafood. San Carlos Bay is the best of both worlds.", "business_id": "NYBx4sdSVrN-I5Q8RfLMPg", "stars": 4, "date": "2008-11-03", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "IggkcfYd2Q5n89H3ByAQkQ", "review_id": "Y-bqrUuDQqwCCpuZZoMeBA", "text": "Not far from the airport, and a great way to start and end your trip to Phoenix. If you live here, better food than the 'upscale' joints in Scottsdale. The seafood is as good as any I've had in many trips to Mexico, and reminds me of a hidden gem an understanding cab driver took me to on a back street near the Sheraton in Puerto Vallerta, and have never been able to find since. You'll know you're here when you spot those casually hung 'Best Mexican Seafood' awards as you enter.\n\nStart of with one of their many varieties of Ceviche, available in three different sized portions. My son liked it so much he had one as an appetizer, and another larger one as his main course.\n\nMy brother then had Grilled Octopus - very tasty and tender. I ordered the Fish Grilled in Garlic Sauce. Amazingly fresh, and done (not overdone) just right. Both platters came with rice. beans, salad, and under the fish - French Fries! Not at all soggy. And the warm tortillas and spicy salsa let you build a few tacos along the way.\n\nWe washed everything down with several Mexican beers, at 4 bucks a bottle, the same as they charge for for 'domestic' beer (although domestic here would probably be Mexican). Friendly waitress and patrons, and even though we were the only gringos in the place, we felt right at home.\n\nThe three meals, as above, with tax, tip and beers came out to only about $70. You could drive down to the actual San Carlos Bay through Tuscon and Nogales in a couple of hours, but why bother when it's really right here.", "business_id": "NYBx4sdSVrN-I5Q8RfLMPg", "stars": 4, "date": "2009-10-22", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "2nXVVKX3K4Httr7-IU1Rew", "review_id": "-dyBFg-hZGzkT5w4FH1S2Q", "text": "I was way excited to try this restaurant since it's so close to my house. I just assumed it was one of those places that looked like a dive outside, but served up a piece of heaven inside. Once I read the Yelp reviews, I was convinced I had made a sound real estate investment!\n\nMaybe my expectations/hopes were too high, but I thought it was just ok. I liked the chips and salsa, and the service was friendly without being in your face. We ordered a round of margaritas which tasted good, but were really weak in terms of the amount of tequila. My father had the garlic shrimp and octopus which was really delicious--if I go back this is what I'd order--and I had the fish cuilichi was ok, just kinda heavy and not really something that got me excited. The girly girl in me says, \"not worth the calories!\"\n\nI think I'll give it another try some time in the future--perhaps it was an off night.", "business_id": "NYBx4sdSVrN-I5Q8RfLMPg", "stars": 3, "date": "2011-10-25", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "d5NlRKsFfN-fqmEWxhimFw", "review_id": "UtktTHQnOTNZihPctg4vSQ", "text": "Been here a few times and never disappointed. The green cheesy shrimp dish was phenomenal.", "business_id": "NYBx4sdSVrN-I5Q8RfLMPg", "stars": 4, "date": "2013-10-20", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "PLxGZk9YX91Vi89RX3n-NQ", "review_id": "0s05cdCalxogdtK1wKBijw", "text": "Been coming for years and they never disappoint!! Makes me feel like I'm back in Rocky Point at the fish market. Must try and they now accept cards, which is great for me since I never have cash!!", "business_id": "NYBx4sdSVrN-I5Q8RfLMPg", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-10-14", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "PiPTAPC6yfkqo_ULCD5p_g", "review_id": "Gbjv1aetb_0_MxtebSWMpw", "text": "Love this place, been coming for over 9 years. Never disappointed! Amazing ceviche tostadas, shrimp cocktail and the lemonade is fantastic.", "business_id": "NYBx4sdSVrN-I5Q8RfLMPg", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-10-05", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "euu1zwAWtJpPUNabC_eE5w", "review_id": "OR-45fOdC4SBrVC8Vkvc2Q", "text": "This is a nice place! Fresh fish, polite staff, and generous portions. We tried the salmon and snapper, both were great. We probably ordered too much because we loved the chips and salsa that we started and finished with. Would recommend their margaritas!", "business_id": "NYBx4sdSVrN-I5Q8RfLMPg", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-10-22", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 2, "useful": 2, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "Z1lPtIHU7bRoIvuVa01H5w", "review_id": "l3A8BTPk6RX2nWrQkfnHpQ", "text": "At 1 PM, we were handed large menus with several dozen interesting choices. Only one seafood entree (fish tacos) on the entire 4 pg card was less than $12, and that included soups. I didnt really want to settle for fish tacos in a lauded casa de mariscos. \n\nEntrees come with complementary ceviche tostadas, which was a nice surprise. My son had the house specialty, camerones culuchi, and I tried a flash-fried whitefish, served whole with sides, for 15 bucks. We agreed the green culuchi sauce bathing six shrimp was instantly forgettable. My fish had about 150 pin bones and less meat than a small can of tuna fish. That's not an attempt at humor. I can debone a fish and there was less meat on this crispy carcass than a standard 6 oz can of tuna, as if they extracted most of it for their own devices, leaving me with little more than skin, bones and an eyeball. \n\nIt's hardly a crummy place on the inside - the decor is cute and colorful. Service seemed friendly, if a bit confused, and having grown up in New England, I'm aware seafood can be pricey. That said, after tax and tip, we spent $40 for one meh and one pretty craptastic lunch, in a hole in the wall just south of Roosevelt. \n\nJudging from the other reviews, it sounds like we just came at a bad time, but that doesnt help me get my forty dollars back. Two stars for the ceviche.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 2, "date": "2008-11-03", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "wsf6MhOr2x7dlJx5lAavOg", "review_id": "Gd2_NgciNDQVt6G8KZCglQ", "text": "Ditto to all the positive reviews out there. This place rocks. The outside actually isn't THAT bad, but yes, I would hesitate to go in if it weren't for all the fantastic reviews on yelp. Once inside, it is just as all the pretty yelp pictures depict: a clean and bright dining room with colorful tables and chairs. My friend and I ordered the mixed seafood cocktail and the shrimp culichi. Both were super tasty, as were the complimentary ceviche tostadas. The culichi sauce was so good that I had to stop myself from drinking it. The seafood cocktail was very refreshing - just what is needed during the Phoenix summer. It had shrimp, oysters, clams, abalone, calamari, and octopus. Almost all the seafood was fresh and sweet, and the dish was huge. The only critique is I can do without the clams. They are the tiny canned ones instead of the fresh ones like I had in the cocktails in Mexico. Service was really good as well. Overall, this was a very pleasant experience. I will be back and I am telling everyone I know about this new find.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 5, "date": "2010-09-07", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 2, "useful": 4, "cool": 4}, "user_id": "q9XgOylNsSbqZqF_SO3-OQ", "review_id": "t_aMvbqbr4T-TkxSm_8uVA", "text": "I'm in love. The festive d\u00e9cor charmed me the second I walked in the door. We sat down and were immediately greeting by a sweet waitress carrying a basket of chips. The chips were light and fresh and came with two salsas, a red and a green avocado salsa.\n\nWe ordered: Camarones aguachile hot drowned shrimp, Camarones culichi shrimps in a green sauce,tomatill & cilantro, rezongue enchiladas crab enchiladas in a red sauce. I also ordered a club soda and when the waitress asked if I wanted it prepared mexi style I said yes. What she brought back was a delicious mix of club soda, salt and muddled lime. It's my new favorite drink. \n\nWe patiently waited for our meal and remarked on the little mermaid scene in front of us. I almost expected the crustaceans to come to life and start playing music. Then to our surprise little fish tostadas were dropped on our table. What a nice touch!\nThe dishes were excellent, all were paired with homemade tortillas, beans and white rice with vegetables. The camarones culichi was my favorite.\n\nFresh seafood, fun atmosphere, great service.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 4, "date": "2010-11-18", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "2zWNGgS80vydADg3_1lnLA", "review_id": "bgqmROd3SFobn-dr2iDVeQ", "text": "If your love seafood and are craving mexican food, this place is it! Don't let the outside or surrounding buildings intimidate you. The food is well worth the trip!\n\nWith free chips and salsa and also a delicious free bit of their ceviche while you order and wait, ya really can't go wrong! Its a bit small inside but perfectly sized for a nice peaceful meal without the room full of loud customes that normally comes with a great restaurant. The staff is friendly, and the mood is colorfully relaxing. I live in E. Mesa and its even worth the drive! :-)", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-10-13", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "H-Q1zZEzQXqNloKh6y8IMQ", "review_id": "79ZJFPJi80tkWRZbAc4p2w", "text": "This would be three and a half but you can not do that. A rough looking sort of neighborhood but a nice and welcoming environment once you get inside.\n\nGreat menu you with items you do not see in most mexican restaurants.\n\nNot cheap but a good quality and quantity.\n\nWould recommend it.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 4, "date": "2011-10-18", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "Xo4i9b1ytYPa2hbNXP_mYQ", "review_id": "bAJAY8fLGcSwFQjCyLsoRQ", "text": "Great fresh sea food! Best I have had in Phoenix, clean and great service. Do not let the neigbor hood scare you away, this place is great. Crab enchalads are the best. Ceveche is as good as I have found. I will be back soon.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-10-20", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 3, "useful": 5, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "sWtIduPNp6MtUPrGnDcb8Q", "review_id": "TkVuM_S2ToHiXMHLK-QKPQ", "text": "OK, mi madre is not prone to going out to eat unless you say the word, \"seafood\" to her. However, my aunt and I read some reviews and used our best cajoling to get her out of her mu mu and into the car to visit this little restaurant just down the way from Ranch Market. \n\nWhen we walked in, I was excited by the colors and festive feel that they have. We were greeted by the owner who is very attentive, and seated straight away. Having read the Yelp! reviews, I knew I was going to aim for the camarones culichi, and gazed at their vast options anyhow. I consider myself pretty seafood savvy! They have such an array of fish dishes that I long to try! Especially their fish soup... it looked amazing. However, I stuck to my trusted reviews and ordered the camarones culichi, my mother ordered the garlic shrimp, and my aunt ordered the fried fish filet. \n\nI know they said not to fill up on the chips and salsa-- but that green salsa made me so happy, I think I will order a pint to take home next time I go. Trust me. \n\nFirst, they brought by little ceviche tostadas to try-- I was so excited that the fish tasted so fresh and delightful. Also, free ceviche? I have no idea if they do this all the time, but what a deal! It had a chipotle and citrus flavor immersed in it and was light, but very satisfying. \n\nThe culichi sauce is full of tomatillo, cilantro, garlic, and lime-- however, their combination is so magical, I cannot express it without salivating. The shrimp are cooked in the sauce and brought out separate from the salad, beans, and rice, and they have the same amazing taste. I will seriously write a poem for how that sauce tastes-- and they give you plenty of fresh tortillas that I wrapped the beans and rice with and dipped in that sauce to ensure I got every last drop. You could taste the freshness of the fish even in the fried fish, which was seasoned and fried to perfection. The \"exquisite salad\" that they offer with every meal really is exquisite, while simple and melds to the meals well since there isn't a strong dressing on it. \n\nThe point is, we left so amazingly joyful and thanked the owner about ten times. I don't know how I am expected to go to another restaurant for some time...", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-11-14", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "Dw8c5RaDIvbQ16eubug6rQ", "review_id": "phHF4IcXLi3NHHc5phtX6Q", "text": "This place was a little out of the way but not far from my hotel. I arrived late on a Wednesday, and was the only one there. But the place was clean and colorful, and I was cheerfully greeted. Throughout, I was not rushed, even when they were closing at 8PM.\n\nBased on some of the reviews on Yelp, I wanted to try it out. The chips and salsa were very good, although I didn't care for a somewhat smoky flavor of the salsa roja. The verde was much better! I went with the camarones salad to start. Really tasty, LOADS of shrimp (maybe they had to get rid of them), but for me a bit too many onions. However, the mixture, topped with cilantro was very tasty. In addition to the chips, a big basket of crackers accompanied the dish.\n\nThe entree I selected was the camarones culichi. It was very tasty, with the sauce light, but delicious. The flour tortillas were fresh and warm. The meal was accompanied but a Negra Modelo (in the bottle, but they had it on tap as well.)\n\nAll in all, it was a great experience. I don't think I will be able to make it back on this trip (and don't really know if I will ever - it's a long way from Alaska) but highly recommend stopping by. Don't let the neighborhood or outside appearances deceive...", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-11-16", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "SUgMPt7DlSrpSwmhC7e4LA", "review_id": "KOhd8YFZI_8nOaMFhNXXYA", "text": "The bright decor soon gives way to best mariscos I have had in Phoenix; you have a loyal customer.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-11-21", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "zMizlCdkLqJWLV9jWTg4rg", "review_id": "jNa2YSI-OjS_pLaAFH3HkQ", "text": "Great service and very friendly staff. The food was good, especially the Shrimp Albondigas.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 4, "date": "2012-09-02", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "x79EzqthUyRSYYWmDx91ag", "review_id": "nqWVJD_0K-ELfMAUpOPiBQ", "text": "We love this restaurant! The food is simply too wonderful to describe. Our goal is to sample every item on the menu. They all sound wonderful. If you love seafood prepared with style and imagination, you should check out this place.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 5, "date": "2012-09-07", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "L-OWVzHOPsqfpxWz_F7Oqg", "review_id": "100VhKxsz1TWzqC1BGWSVQ", "text": "Best Mexican restaurant I've ever eaten at! Next time in Phoenix will be back! Friendly service and good prices!", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 5, "date": "2012-10-06", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "xFG4Ca2HHmbxDTkMlmHnjQ", "review_id": "GfnuMnLhxx2w4tPvdx49kQ", "text": "This place is pretty good. The decor was great! The service was very good.\n\nThe food was good, but not exceptional. We expected the prices to be much lower than they were.\n\nOverall, it is good and we would eat there again, but we wouldn't go out of our way.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 3, "date": "2012-10-09", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 2, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "D61Mrp4As8Zy6X8wVTQh8A", "review_id": "0VfzfzZEtGAyE7DUL8xffQ", "text": "I can't believe I haven't reviewed this place!! I've been here so many times, you know I love my mariscos. Playa Hermosa has never disappointed me. There quality is very consistent and I would be soooo sad if they ever stop their business. Let me give them 10 stars out of 5. They are that good!\n\nPlease don't be discouraged because of the area it's in. I know some people would never come to this part of town...they are missing out! \n\nI love walking into the restaurant to their colorful decors. Once you are seated, you will get a generous portion of freshly made warm tortilla chips with a red and a green salsa, no questions asked. They don't care if you're going to order later on...here, have some chips and salsa! They have a full bar and a TV with sports playing all the time. Now you can have some drinks with free chips and salsa while watching a game. Once you order, they will bring you a tostada with ceviche. It's on the house. Their ceviche is fresh and flavorful without being overpowered by excessive lime.\n\nAs for entrees, I would recommend....\n- shrimp culichi\n- fish tacos\n- grilled shrimp\n- fried fish in garlic sauce\n- molcajete\n- any types of ceviche\n\nMost dishes come with a side of beans, rice, salad, and flour/corn tortillas. Be prepared to walk out with a full belly plus some to take home.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 5, "date": "2012-10-31", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "PcvV8zVgwpez9s6I-3Dykw", "review_id": "Gj_1Vk2KxqojJeE8isqa1A", "text": "Located in not the nicest neighborhood of Phoenix, Mariscos Playa Hermosa seems a bit shady on the outside. Once you get pasted the secretive tinted windows, however, it's an entirely different world. Vibrant colors hit your eyes and vivacious music pleases your eardrums. It really makes you feel like you're near a playa hermosa. \n\nTo start off, we were given a complimentary hard tortilla with ceviche on it. You can taste how fresh and delectable the combination of ingredients is. I've had plenty of ceviche in Latin American countries and theirs is on par. \n\nThe selection here is ridiculous, but in a good way. I ended up going simple and ordering some shrimp tacos. You get 3 tacos with rice, beans, and salad. The tacos don't include any filler ingredients like Americans prefer. Just straight up shrimp smothered in oozing melted cheese. Can't get much more legit than that. The rice, beans, and salad were all pretty typical and were a good compliment to the meal. \n\nThank you Marisocs Playa Hermosa for fulfilling my friend's craving for amazing legit Mexican food after being stuck in the Romney infested part of Colorado for a year. The service is warm and friendly, decor is unexpected but awesome, and the food is as close as you can get without crossing the border.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 5, "date": "2012-11-08", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "bz7h5YR37ibMgdDZLR3VYQ", "review_id": "2E2uo_Bwm0rIUFexDizdFg", "text": "The moment I entered this place it's like I'm in a giant playroom. The place is very bright and colorful. I wouldn't be surprised if Dora or the whole Sesame Street Gang suddenly showed up.\n\nWe ordered the Molcajete and fish ceviche. The Molcajete ($22) is the bomb! It's this delicious dish that has beef, chicken, shrimp, and fish lined up around on what seems like the Wicked Witch's cauldron filled with tomatillo sauce. It's enough for two people. You'd know its one of their popular dishes because all the other tables have it. One group of people even ordered three! It's like we were part of a Mexican witch convention. It was pretty amusing.\n\nMy husband got the $4 draft beer which he later regretted because there's this promo girl who gave out some freebies including a bottle of Budweiser beer for each of us. I'm not sure if they do that all the time. I guess we're just lucky. We went on a Friday night so we got a live background music from their Mariachi band.\n\nOverall, we loved it! Can't go wrong with Mexican seafood. We'll definitely be back.\n\nTrivia: Apparently, the Molcajete is the traditional Mexican version of mortar and pestle. Thanks Wikipedia!", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 4, "date": "2013-09-24", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "p5jXjPeG-lh8lOwFioboZg", "review_id": "GuxqlR31Awqh1vgkkeeksA", "text": "The most amazing fish. I take all my colleagues in from out of town. Moriscos is an amazing \"hole in the wall\" secret. The fish smothered with plablano pepper is my favorite. An absolute winner.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 4, "date": "2013-09-24", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 3, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "UgSxQ3N12jxkwqbrz-dKrA", "review_id": "w53I6Y2ngZq_Zp7z3Wtvdw", "text": "This relatively small 12-table restaurant packs a nice mexican punch. The decor is a mexican coastal theme with a small bar and impressive wine selection. They have around 5 draft beers of standard mexican brews (Tecate, Dos, Corona, etc.).\n\nTo start the meal I ordered a $4.00 24 oz draft and the waitress brought out complementary (homemade) chips with two types of tasty salsa. A gratis talapia ceviche tostata (also pictured) followed, which was impressive. I had an excellent shredded beef taco and carne asada enchaladas with red sauce (photo posted). The carne had a great grilled flavor that came through the bold taste of the red sauce. The salad was fresh and the rice contained lima beans, carrots, peas and corn - not your uninspired rice you typically get. \n\nMy waitress was helpful and attentive, the remaining staff was busy cleaning and organizing - a sign of a well run business. The deserts looked great (coconut cake, a chocolate cake and a stawberry merange pie looking thing) but was too full to partake. \n\nIt's close to the airport so I hit this after my business trip. Same experience! I'll return here when in Phonix again.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 4, "date": "2013-10-07", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "Y5m29ud-52jT2y4Xt6WGKA", "review_id": "45mr6zy1gjYUaKZ9gUgSUQ", "text": "After the fish tacos here, I feel like I haven't had them anywhere else. So good. The ceviche tostada and crab enchiladas--packed with crabmeat--were absolutely delicious. \n\nThe ambience was bright, draft beer was deep, and service perfect. The owner even comped us tostadas. This place deserves another star!", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 5, "date": "2013-10-07", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "OpYWwpuDNGgB7U2ALge7_Q", "review_id": "xLY1vFSBBMAwE_J2wWmC3Q", "text": "So my coworker and I had a business trip to Chandler, AZ and I had told him about my last two experiences eating seafood in the desert. Fish tacos that looked and tasted like nasty dried chunks of leather. You figure AZ shares a border with Mexico so they must share some learnings but it was nothing like the awesome fish tacos you get in San Diego. Need to avoid seafood in AZ.\n\nWe randomly drove by this place and decided, ok that looks interesting. Surprised me when I found it was another seafood joint. MMmm ok we're here and too hungry to look for another place.\n\nSo I ordered the crab enchilada plate and it was actually pretty good. Real crab meat stuffed enchiladas with rice and beans on the side. The shrimp ceviche tostada appetizer was also pretty good as well.\n\nThe exterior looks a bit sketchy but the interior decor was cute with a fishy motif straight out of the Bahamas. All in all a nice place for lunch.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 4, "date": "2013-10-10", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "H2qWgKLSYvzosZqBkCw_9Q", "review_id": "P5vJUw1VL_6c1RTSqIBgkQ", "text": "Raised in Arizona, I have spent the last 13 years in Michigan, where salsa often consists of ketchup with cut tomato in it. I craved fresh chips and salsa, and I am in heaven. I ordered the Cameron Ranchero, and it was excellent. A great place to get reacquainted with good Mexican food!", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 4, "date": "2013-10-11", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "DJzbBORAJjTiTzFCEdoMQQ", "review_id": "DL6gf5E5w7P9m3rCHjgF1A", "text": "Molcajete WHOA. This place is really fun and delicious! It does get pretty loud when the mariachi band comes in on Friday nights, so beware. The d\u00e9cor is bright and vibrant, and I'd say the usual vibe of the restaurant matches how it looks. This restaurant is so good that it draws a diverse crowd. \n\nI've been here a few times and can never get away from the molcajete. I've tried both the red and the green and I think I prefer the red, although both are absolutely delicious. It's definitely enough to share unless your dining companion is a troll. The molcajete is served with chicken, beef (carne asada), and fish. There is usually some seafood swimming around in the molcajete \"stew\" as well. It comes with tortillas on the side and you can make delicious fish/chicken/beef/molcajete tacos! \n\nThe area of town is a bit sketchy. I've been approached by homeless people for cash when I'm leaving the restaurant. I'm not put off by that but I know some people aren't into that.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 4, "date": "2013-10-25", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 3, "useful": 2, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "-uP6DbSN8jBWMbs-INTegw", "review_id": "BhqQ4XuDY2ojbvirqUmQZA", "text": "I was excited to try this place based on all the positive reviews. I thought this Mexican seafood restaurant would bring me back to my favorite seafood restaurant in Playa del Carmen. Unfortunately, this is just bad seafood, not matter the type.\n\nI ordered the seafood ceviche and it was not fresh at all. Several of the seafood items were soft from spoilage (as opposed to tender) and smelled fishy. I decided to stop after a few bites because I didn't want risk getting sick since I was about to get on a plane. I may have been fine finishing the dish but I didn't see the need to play seafood roulette.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 2, "date": "2013-10-31", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "BFKxMUQ4vpw65qPKAQGHTQ", "review_id": "P2wQ4br_-Np5illTxgHoOw", "text": "Great place! Excellent service..was in town visiting family and decided to get a bite to eat ..very happy with my choice! Had tostada de ceviche and tacos... definitely coming back.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 5, "date": "2013-11-07", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "5-nPNMvu8R_xoxsK6k9m5A", "review_id": "-dEQkBZ5VnimxN_JDi3BiQ", "text": "Everything was DELICIOUS! We're from out of town and found this little gem through Yelp. They give you complimentary chips and salsa and ceviche and tostada with your entree order. Service was great as well, very attentive and accommodating. Great restaurant! Highly recommend!!", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 5, "date": "2013-11-30", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "mFaaHwmsIzhPwaDYkcYYYg", "review_id": "BWxsaoapLpZNwqY-JIEqUQ", "text": "I ate here 2 years ago and had one of the best meals. Not sure what changed, oh wait, it's the quality of the fish. I got the caldo de pescados. The sea bass was gross. So then they brought me a sea bass with ancho chiles that looked good but again, the fish was no bueno. I'm real sorry. I drove 30 minutes out of the way to come here and had 2 inedible entrees. \n\nCrab tostada, guacamole and margarita were ok but not worth the embarrassment of not eating 2 different dinners. The staff was super nice about it and the owner didn't charge me. I wanted to pay but he refused. So nice but I felt terrible. Bad dream.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 2, "date": "2014-09-03", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 3, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "cwr0hw63mQ-tAO0uf-NjNA", "review_id": "D-aXYLtq7jNbaiZMB7CFlw", "text": "For a Mexican restaurant and the area its located in it seemed really, really expensive. Our check for 2 people was $60. We both had 1 drink and 1 entree and split an appetizer. \n\nThe rating is highly influenced by the total price of the experience.\n\nOn to the food-- the ceviche was OK at best, it was comprised of 90% pico and 10% shrimp/fish. I've had ceviche from several dozen places and I'd have to rate this ceviche in the bottom 3 : /\n\nThe 'Camarones Fantasia' were very dry (over fried a little) and small for an order/the price. It came with 6 medium sized shrimps and should have been at least large or jumbo so as not to become so dry while cooking optimally. Ironically enough, I thought the actual taste was not terrible, but I could not describe them as \"succulent\" by any means.\n\nThe 'Camarones de Ajo' were very good but lacked some flavor that should have been there and that has been present in other Ajo dishes I have sampled throughout the US and Mexico.\n\nThe drinks were AWESOME! The micheladas were very great and by far the best part of the meal. However, they were the most expensive I have ever bought (40% more than the most touristy of spots in Mexico, which if you understand, is saying a lot!). \n\nI'm quite confused how they can charge so much for the drinks and dishes here.\n\nThe experience was not \"bad\", but its certainly not a place I will return to anytime soon.\n\n3 stars is the best I can give this place.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 3, "date": "2014-09-09", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 4, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "nZT_BLosjhyRZ0gQ0yBamQ", "review_id": "et02Z4X0RgROQE7DI1JlMQ", "text": "This place is a hidden gem!\n\nPlease don't let the surrounding area deter you from this fine establishment! \n\nStaff: unbelievably friendly from beginning to end! Hector, our waiter, was patient throughout the many questions we had and even have us a complimentary ceviche dish to start! \n\nFood: O.M.G! In order of our favorites:\n1) molcajete. GET THIS!!! It is basically a volcano of saucy lava that is erupting with steak, chicken, shrimp, and fish. It is served with rice, beans, and tortillas and is made for two or three people to share. It is made in either a green tomatillo (mild) sauce or a red diablo (spicy) sauce. I liked the diablo more bc it had such amazing flavor. \n2) guacamole: best ive ever had!!\n3) Shrimp in cream sauce: yummmm. Great flavor!\n4) Shrimp and octopus in garlic sauce - also good\n5) shrimp tacos - just okay. Would choose the above over these\n\nFinally, don't forget to check in on yelp!! Show your waiter and you get a big free slice of cake!!", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-09-11", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "nX0T1dy0WhD-Wjz7Mh8S_A", "review_id": "nu-sV-vssN98c6DmBY4AwQ", "text": "This place is wondrous. It's in the hood but that makes the experience all that better. Walking in you're greeted with a burst of colorful decor in a cozy little space. It was pretty quiet for a Thursday evening which was fine by me. Margs were yummy, food was spendid and reminded me of being in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. I ordered the fish, shrimp combo. To die for. The shrimp was seasoned to perfection. I will definitely be back with a group so we can spread the word on this hidden gem. I also will add that they do have a patio that is dog friendly (I'm dog obsessed). Go here. You will not be dissapointed. This place is authentic. Buenos dias.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-09-12", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "wUEp87FqOB9ew27Iz6zk_w", "review_id": "f4jjYJPOmlU5Dzzp6JpbAA", "text": "I came here for lunch and was so surprised it wasn't packed, based on all the great reviews on here. But, it was a rainy day so that may have deterred some people from going out.\n\nThe prices here are a bit higher than you'd typically expect at a regular Mexican restaurant, but you have to keep in mind that you're ordering seafood and seafood in the desert ain't cheap. (well, it's probably cheap at some places but it's also probably really gross at those places). for the non-seafood entrees the prices were lower and more what you'd expect.\n\nI ordered a fish taco entree that came with 3 tacos and beans and rice for only $8.99, so that's not bad at all. The fish was fresh and tender and I really enjoyed the tacos. However, I did not care for the complimentary fish ceviche tostada thing they served - the fish there tasted a little \"off\" to me.\n\nI would definitely come here again!", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-09-17", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "FqthOa35iYQWwJ29hlHvNg", "review_id": "1S3YIAelQ8yXale-m613oQ", "text": "Love this place! Molcajete was outstanding although I wish they put a little more squid in the green sauce. Great chips, solid ceviche, amazing horchata! Authentic interior with bright colors, festive chairs and tables, and several televisions for watching sports or whatever.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-09-17", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "z6EeZjvQS97V2KpzScaXnw", "review_id": "L8jRYiJDNz6sSV9XLXw_vA", "text": "My wife and I stopped here on our way through Phoenix on a road trip. The food was really good and the margarita was tasty. We really enjoyed the shrimp ceviche as well. On our way back to the airport we stopped again for some food for the plane. The best part, the food was good and inexpensive! This will definitely be our go to spot anytime when we fly into Phoenix! Oh yes, the staff was very friendly also :-)!", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-09-21", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "wGsBJOdi2Zhe_xJKRNsPVQ", "review_id": "C8OdtuhK4-R1DFiMcEMOyQ", "text": "Drinks, chips, salsa, guacamole, and shrimp dishes were sublime. The atmosphere is warm, pretty, and everyone we saw there was very nice, the service was great. But, only three stars because this was just the first visit and we weren't over the moon. That said, I'll *definitely go back * to enjoy all the good stuff and retry a few dishes -- and it's about 1/2 hour drive for us across town, that is, it's worth the trip.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 3, "date": "2014-09-26", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "vzY5QH-eKitNrSwqNapDXg", "review_id": "gncs20YhYmwOvFWpcqi5Rw", "text": "Very good food. Very good atmosphere!!! We will definitely come back!!! The tostadas and the fried fish were excellent. The fish was very moisture.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-10-05", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "sKdEbPglHGtyg-p6ORBTGw", "review_id": "x6HxKZQw4gAjVJMOcTm9bg", "text": "Grilled fish tacos were pretty good. Lots of cheese in them, but I'm not complaining. Does take a bit of time to get your food, but the place was packed. Very small parking lot, you'll likely have to park on the street if you come on a busy night like we did this Saturday.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-11-08", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "g1L5wLm34RdmGcZ5xk-Q3A", "review_id": "9KXhOmhfQMCvUZ6nQjHkfg", "text": "Definately my kind of place- Diamond in the rough... Fresh seafood... and cheap beer! The food was delicious! I can't wait to go back and try that giant seafood pot!", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-11-12", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "2NfpWMYeSJ4EfJwANRnxiw", "review_id": "2su-NHsUWtlXlXuSJzENkw", "text": "Fast & efficient service. Good ceviche - the pulpo is delicious and tender, not chewy. Good kids meals - nice portion size.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-11-15", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "55ozwL2xZH3WlSUb3V49aQ", "review_id": "OdPs8aMiPrnEz-gOh-rIKQ", "text": "Today was the third time I come to this place and the first review I make. I am giving it 4 stars for the overall experience. However, being here 3 times now I can say that some of the reviews are correct, service is a hit and miss, the food depending on what you order will vary as well. We had the \"Molcajete\" which is a must order serves 2-4 depending on how hungry you are. And we had the \"Mojara Frita\" whole fried fish. Both come with rice, beans, and a little salad. It was all good and filling.\n\n If you are in a hurry don't come here, this is one of those places that is meant to be enjoyed at a slow pace. Order, eat chips and salsa, have a drink, chit chat and wait for your food. Atmosphere is great!", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 3, "date": "2014-11-16", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "bgu7jiIrMm_08DT2t2OPXA", "review_id": "1JZaIMWXOKGdic2kn4hB6Q", "text": "A decent spot to eat at. Our waitress wasn't as fast as she could have been considering it wasn't packed. Most of the food was tasty especially the molcajete but we had three complaints that kept coming up around the table. The fish was very sub-par, over cooked, and over seasoned. The rice was a little soggy and it was very tasteless, it was almost hard to eat to be honest. To finish it off the salsa was very watery and it felt like it was missing something. All In all, it was an alright spot I doubt we will be going back considering the long drive but I wouldn't count it out for good.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 3, "date": "2014-11-17", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "-Xfg9zGbrqzv0CNVyJEjEA", "review_id": "00I6ws1op7eakjpR1a9iBw", "text": "Insanely delicious. I don't know how else to describe my dinner there. My husband and I were in Phoenix for a long weekend and wanted some good Mexican food. (Thank you, fellow Yelpers, for pointing me towards Mariscos Playa Hermosa.)\n\nThis adorable little restaurant looks like absolutely nothing from the outside- just a plain looking building with a sign. The inside, though, is cute and definitely has an authentic Mexican feel. Upon entering the restaurant, we were warmly greeted and seated. Within a few minutes, we were offered beers and tortilla chips. We opted for guacamole to compliment our tortillas, the former of which I was suspicious at first because of the seemingly runny consistency. Boy, was I wrong - the guac was tangy and full of flavor. I would love to have their recipe! \n\nBased on other review, we opted for the molcajete for our main curse. It. Was. Off. The. Hook. It arrived in a medium-sized, deep bowl, filled half-way with a delicious spicy cheesy gray. Along the sides of the bowl are shrimp, chicken, beef and scallops. We just kind of pushed all the meats into the sauce and then dug in. And while this dish is meant to serve up to 4 persons, we totally killed it and finished every bite. (Disclaimer: I'm a small person and really don't eat that much.... The molcajete was JUST THAT GOOD.) \n\nThe next time I'm in Phoenix, I'll make sure to return to Mariscos!", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-11-24", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "XsVMkd5br6MhCk6meUly1Q", "review_id": "IdoUetvgFbE4yiIQ6uQU-w", "text": "Nothing to brag about here but the decor.Ive had better Mexican seafood in food trucks.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 2, "date": "2015-09-05", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "Ix6Xiz3cx5tceCun369FNQ", "review_id": "Q6fwhyI6uTr-MfP1mXGvYQ", "text": "I got the Camaron culichi it was really good, but has to wait on my tortillas, husband got the shrimp/ pulpo cocktail with no onion but came with extra it seemed like, serve was extremely bad never came to our table to see how we were doing if we needed any crackers for the shrimp cocktail, I asked for a soda with a cup of ice got the soda no cup of ice had to wait 10 minutes for my ice had to ask another waitress, asked for one taco of carne Asada no onion Took another 10 minutes, asked for the bill and that came out in one minute not sure if I would be going back the service sucked.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 3, "date": "2015-09-06", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "zz_0bMZS3IyopqbknYNz-Q", "review_id": "_6T2WRuJodqhzB6nnP-l7Q", "text": "Last min stop because I was craving Mexican food and I'm glad we stopped by. \n\n1st the bad news- the service wasn't very good. We were seated in the back of the restaurant, all alone, like kids on a time out. And while our waitress was very lovely, I think she forgot about us a lot because service was very slow. The restaurant was slightly busy, but not crazy, so we expected a little more attention. We had to keep leaving our table to ask for water, or drinks, or the check- it was annoying. \n\nNow the good news: the food is excellent. Super yummy and very generous portions. Had the ceviche, fish tacos, and chicken enchiladas- all excellent. \n\nSo overall, it was a great meal- but service needs work. Will definitely be back to try again. :)", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 3, "date": "2015-09-07", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "nll9rej-EkQzxeKIRDyrTw", "review_id": "ATjSEscvJr59ouxaAI8kcQ", "text": "I have been to this restaurant countless times. Love it.\n\nThe shrimp a la plancha is so Good. Im addicted.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-09-08", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "rMxNOtUEwCRe37nSjcrM_Q", "review_id": "jXPxYCAsK_1Fb_qF3-1-VQ", "text": "This place is awesome! Clean and colorful, with excellent service, and the place was full on a Labor Day afternoon. We had the shrimp with the green sauce and fish tacos. Super tasty. Ice cold Negro Modela on tap, 24 oz for $5 is unbeatable! Wish the bar area was bigger but overall this place rocks.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-09-08", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "ocRhJ7pyP3v7N2ENcHQofA", "review_id": "RKx08fINtFxaQ1Zjo6ztCQ", "text": "One of the better Mariscos places in Phoenix. Ceviche is very fresh and goes well with some cold beer.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-09-13", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "pHl3TuLr447Z-nnYwx6tJw", "review_id": "ITKm8cx__seCOIf2vCjCSw", "text": "I really hate having to write this because I really was hoping that I was going to have this delicious mouth watering experience after reading the reviews. \n Unfortunately this was not the case, as I stepped into the restaurant the decor was something I pictured a Mariscos restaurant would look so colorful and beautiful and my server was friendly and that is were it ends.\n I ordered a water of jamica w/o ice as I took a sip to my disappointment it was warm. Now I ask myself shouldn't fresh fruit water drinks be placed in ice or the refrigerator to avoid contamination? So for my meal I had the shrimp ceviche plate and as I took a bite of my tostada all I could taste is the staleness of the tostada and saltiness of the civiche and I am one who LOVES salt. The shrimp definitely was not fresh (I wonder if it may have been canned?). So I brought it to the waitress attention that the saltine crackers and tostadas were stale. She informed me that the restaurant was aware of this. Now why would a 4 1/2 star restaurant serve stale food to their customers?\n Mariscos Playa Hermosa I wish I could say my food made my taste buds dance but it did not.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 1, "date": "2015-09-29", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "ddWtj2Fs1BikJVb-eg6_WA", "review_id": "uxaLpuaErUYDsWBkCkiGzg", "text": "This a great restaurant. In Phoenix in business and found this place on Yelp. It was pretty close to The Crowne Plaza at the airport. Huge portions and truly authentic!! Couldn't finish everything. Had the Tostada with shrimp & octopus, followed by some great enchiladas!!!!", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-10-05", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "t-F9bd_r4EQ5ar6GjJndbg", "review_id": "QwyFG0QGnycKyeFxyHHZdQ", "text": "Food is AMAZING! We've come here for date night 3 times and it never disappoints. Love the mariachi band and the service is excellent.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-10-09", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "ywOL5ur0dD0tWKXIS8gHAA", "review_id": "SNo8CnPYIfsqCEcuRTbbLw", "text": "Molcajete Caliente - best dish ever.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-10-12", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "huimDarPpqW6JdgNmaIOcA", "review_id": "bQ3TObBADtIgihL3cFdt8w", "text": "Well worth trying! \n\nGreat unique tastes in the heart of Phoenix. \n\nChips and salsa -- solid\nCeviche -- really good\nCarmarones Culchi -- this is the dish to order. Sauce is incredible.\n\nGenerous portions, reasonable prices. Nice staff.\n\nWill definitely return when in AZ.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-10-12", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "iiZ692JhPwaEcjAoFoLA4w", "review_id": "v52jvU21vd3Y6eWitOBbhA", "text": "Delicious! We had margaritas, fish ceviche, fish tacos and crab enchiladas. I would prefer the shrimp, but my grandpa was having shrimp so wanted fish. The verde sauce with the chips is really flavorful. \n\nFish tacos were great, packed with fish and so were the enchiladas (but with crab meat). The red sauce was a little on the sweet side. Paired with some of their many hot sauces, it was perfect. Large potions and good prices. \n\nWe made reservations for 6 on a Saturday and it was picked when we arrived but cleared up shortly after. I love the bright colors and there's a patio. \n\nThe service was excellent, staff working together and very friendly. I used the Yelp free cake offer and had the chocolate cake. Really good, giant piece. \n\nIf I've ever in town again, I'll come back. May have made a regular of my grandpa!", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-10-17", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "jht3TUl4osuC27RbC2I69A", "review_id": "s4tnBPgsbf1hqBkv29eWYg", "text": "I only had the mixed seafood cocktail. It was not as cold as I expected it to be. The temperature and watered down flavor made me cautious about eating it. Not the best I've had. The michelada was amazing and my husbands carne asada tacos were flavorful. I would go back and try something different.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 3, "date": "2015-10-18", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "2LF6WXoojy3_WFY1G4kMSw", "review_id": "K8Hztf9UA8g8Ah0uSIxnXw", "text": "Food average. Horrible service. I waited 15 min before getting drinks even though there is couple of tables.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 1, "date": "2015-10-31", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "a5n9nSRnexze-5TjPZq8ZQ", "review_id": "Q49BwZxlTunFFCRR5WqFSw", "text": "Food very mediocre and service was very slow.\nAlthough only few tables were filled, took forever for drinks and food. \nNice environment though.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 1, "date": "2015-10-31", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "DBSw5UIQkR46n30HGkFlFQ", "review_id": "6LaZZyJqnqgD4Xrs0b04dw", "text": "I love this place. Great vibe and decor, the food is to die for. I approve.\n\nThe molcajete is a must with chicken and steak and shrimp in a delicious melted cheese dip.\n\nAll the while you have great drinks and mariachi.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-11-02", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "N6O0gMI31ua5H8ZC7TXEoA", "review_id": "cuTjt8qQK2xCBf9NDFNr8A", "text": "I found this place on yelp, I was craving some mariscos close to the hospital where I was visiting. I really wanted to love this place because unlike other Mexican mom and pops restaurants they had excellent service. We were greeted and seated quickly, the waitress quickly took our drink order and brought them right out. After she took the food order we were given complimentary tostadas de ceviche. As for the food the chips and salsa were on point. But the beans and rice were terrible. The camarones culiche were not spicey at all and just lacked flavor. I'll go back for drinks but not food.", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 2, "date": "2015-11-12", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "dKEv1IsVJjJcRDDAc2rD-Q", "review_id": "RNlDjmaYmfW3G30prVzKQA", "text": "The decor here is very \"interesting\". I would say it could be classified as Hollywood Mexican meet kitsch. But who really cares about that what is important is that the food is solid. I had shrimp fajitas and they were delicious. I also drank the Jamaica , which is hibiscus tea, and it was really tasty. I can't really say anything bad about this place and I don't think that the two colleagues visiting with me could either unless you're offended by kitschy decor. Do understand that this is not a high-end surf and turf type of fish restaurant, it is a fairly authentic Mexican seafood place", "business_id": "Cp6JGY5YIRncTV_My9nf9g", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-11-25", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "_jjIaczpcVDpHlH6l334rQ", "review_id": "F_IsqFvXLiSzM1MolFpckg", "text": "Lived in the valley my entire life...never once been to Pete's. A couple of my co-workers begged me to go. They praised how good it was..even have the bumper sticker on the wall of their cubical. Fish tacos were actually REALLY good and the burger was large for a 1/3lb. I was quite impressed. I'll be going back!", "business_id": "zU8IfotOLryhaz5okWx6cA", "stars": 4, "date": "2009-09-04", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 2, "cool": 2}, "user_id": "_jjIaczpcVDpHlH6l334rQ", "review_id": "osNQ8DUcTDBq1GaLUUtrKw", "text": "Consistent quality and service. Burgers and fish were both good. Yummy!", "business_id": "zU8IfotOLryhaz5okWx6cA", "stars": 4, "date": "2009-09-11", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "WlgIfH4_wdwV2TdMtG_B8g", "review_id": "4zlTr9pKSTpnDaJkEC3hAw", "text": "This location is CLOSED.", "business_id": "zU8IfotOLryhaz5okWx6cA", "stars": 1, "date": "2011-10-28", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 2, "useful": 2, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "kAHUx9Z-vwaahW5cpoUg0w", "review_id": "beQvejFECiJIScozLVZsjg", "text": "For a nondescript, strip mall of a location Christo's pours on the charm of old Italian flare.\nFor our family thanksgiving, we all decided to celebrate my birthday, parents anniversary, sister's birthday and realtor's birthday all in one shot; nice treat was this place is around the corner from my sisters house.\nWe ordered a bevy of dishes and i got the lamb shank. The chicken soup and salad that comes with the meal is a nice treat and the creme brulee dessert is especially good.\nThe food is good but not outstanding.\nFor next year family gathering, I hope we get to explore more of the cuisine of the local hood.", "business_id": "3CSaqRNvYg7ZdN2zwxwzVw", "stars": 3, "date": "2009-11-29", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "8p8HZNmrkUBtMx_vmW9dNQ", "review_id": "yP8i7FDX0KARWiR1C26NSQ", "text": "My wifes and my first visit to Christos Restaurante: Found it on Yelp. Was impressed so we decided to give it a try. This place has many good qualities. . First good thing is that this place has real tableclothes which are changed after each sitting. Real silverware and a waiter who was very good. Real glasses.... not Pizza Hut or any of that. \nThe decor looked expensive. Asked for the menu and was very suprised... the prices were very reasonable. My wife had chicken tetrazinni which had a sauce so good that it would have made anything taste better. It came with vegetables, not mixed together but each seperated and colorful. Carrots, brocolli, and cauliflower. These colors were so placed as to make an excellent presentation.\nI had shrimp parmesan beside (not on) a portion of pasta with baked marinara sauce and the parmesan sauce? Wow!!\nAm I dreaming? Have I wandered into foodie heaven? Whatever, it was superb from start to finish.\nOh, yes, finish. To finish we had terremisso for desert. Total bill a bit over 30$ including drinks and substantial tip for wonderful service.\nI'd go there again in a heartbeat.\nMore good news! They even do a take out. All this and heaven too!", "business_id": "3CSaqRNvYg7ZdN2zwxwzVw", "stars": 4, "date": "2010-10-18", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "xKUCiQz4IY6suDcrN2xqSA", "review_id": "Mh5kKTw-ZuW6CDSiXOz1Og", "text": "We went there for a family birthday and it was great. \n\nI was the only male out of the 6 people in attendance and these women love to talk! We were there an hour and half after closing talking and the staff was TOTALLY COOL. I felt bad for staying so long but the staff kept telling us not to worry about it.\n\nGreat food! Great service!", "business_id": "3CSaqRNvYg7ZdN2zwxwzVw", "stars": 5, "date": "2010-10-26", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "BBG8jG04nrk9JKYJxo4PEg", "review_id": "lGnVhydZFrk2WD9tkzI9sQ", "text": "We have gone to Christos for over 15 years. It has very consistently good food and service. We have tried almost everything on the menu at one time or another and never had a meal less than great. The osso bucco and duck are favorites along with all the fish dishes. Try it, you'll like it as we do.", "business_id": "3CSaqRNvYg7ZdN2zwxwzVw", "stars": 4, "date": "2011-11-20", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "zd_jyF-fc6uDtfOXnq1jsw", "review_id": "4qTq9azVPNbcCUA_iymWJA", "text": "I love Christos I recommend the pomodoro pasta. It is so light fresh and delicious. \nChristos is ny favorite.", "business_id": "3CSaqRNvYg7ZdN2zwxwzVw", "stars": 5, "date": "2012-09-08", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 5, "cool": 3}, "user_id": "-b277SKt016tYkCq3HBI8g", "review_id": "jkS24ho3x4FKydJkeigt_w", "text": "I went to this establishment while visiting my dad - he's been here before. Now, I'm not among the jaded whose nose sticks up in the air just because it's not NYC fare - and certainly NYC doesn't have any Mexican that can compete with the best of metro Phoenix - so I just want to point out I'm doing my best to be objective.\n\nWe ordered mussels with marinara for an appetizer, Dad had veal chop for the main course, and I had a haddock special. All came with salad, which is a nice touch. Everything we ate was of nice quality and absolutely satisfying. If this was NYC, the prices would have been at least twice as much . . . and I would have given the same review anyway. Waiter was also attentive, even sitting down with us as he took our order (relax, people!).\n\nDad usually has taken me to Barrio Cafe when I visit, but I'm certainly glad he took me here. Clientele tends to be older, so don't come looking here for atmosphere if you're Gen X or younger, but if you come here for the food and service, you won't regret it.\n\nA total surprise . . . a total gem.", "business_id": "3CSaqRNvYg7ZdN2zwxwzVw", "stars": 5, "date": "2012-10-02", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "xFG4Ca2HHmbxDTkMlmHnjQ", "review_id": "e3pX4B6msg_kDMZYjegsvg", "text": "Good food for very good prices! The portions are generous, and you also get a soup and/or salad (depending on lunch or dinner). The service is good too. Will definitely return!", "business_id": "3CSaqRNvYg7ZdN2zwxwzVw", "stars": 4, "date": "2012-10-09", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 3, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "a_V8LRfMxGvpGtTwR2olrg", "review_id": "py3N8S86FBNZWljuy4A3cg", "text": "Yes I have been here before...\n\nNow for a person who has been to Italy and has worked in restaurants for years I think I can give a pretty fair review:\n\nMy Girlfriend and I went there very hungry on a Friday night; they were not busy nor slow, about average for October in Phoenix. We called to make a reservation and when we came in we were seated without menus. Now working in restaurants this is almost un-heard of but like I said we were hungry...\n\nThe waiter came over and asked if we would like something to drink (A little rudely) but like I keep saying we were hungry. Since we didn't have any menus including a wine menu, we asked the waiter to see some menus. He proceeded to only bring a wine menu...\n\nAfter we made are choice we laid the menu down in clear vision of the waiter (A definite sign to come back to the table.) He then proceeded to take the other tables' orders. (Perfectly fine). Oh and they had both food and drink menus as this comes back later in the story.\n\nWe waited for a solid 10 min before trying to flag down the waiter....NOTHING. We decided to try to flag him down and he was having none of it. We then got up from the table and left! Walking right passed the so called manager (Older lady with short brown hair) she told us to have a good night as if we just had a great dinner.....\n\nWe were so hungry we needed to go somewhere else!! On the way to a much nicer and hospitable establishment. I called Cristo's and asked to speak to the manager. The lady who told us to have a good night answered and told us she was the head manager and then proceeded to tell us that not giving people who sit down at a restaurant menus unless they ask... I had never been so offended in my life. A straight up LIE!! \n\nI could not hear any more. Hopefully the owner reads this and make this right. I am not seeking anything free I just don't want this to happen to anyone else ... EVER AGAIN", "business_id": "3CSaqRNvYg7ZdN2zwxwzVw", "stars": 1, "date": "2012-11-13", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "o4uEuIH4KCjMQ8k4MglIGw", "review_id": "Ao8TFnGSEg8Y1dBHAOK5KA", "text": "The most dependable upscale restaurant I know in Phoenix. First-rate dishes, like melt in your mouth osso bucco and a huge and delicious veal chop, at reasonable prices. Reservations essential. Don't miss their calamari.", "business_id": "3CSaqRNvYg7ZdN2zwxwzVw", "stars": 5, "date": "2013-09-17", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 7, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "p7dvahRPZIWL7T6pFA_0dg", "review_id": "SitxTme7PideM3bzBepz8A", "text": "Christo's is OK if your into three courses in less than 45 minutes. I was expecting to dine here but it was much more similar to a diner experience were you get whammed bammed and thank you'd as we were in and out in a jiffy.\n\nMy husband loves classic Italian Foods and according to reviews Christo's seemed like a top destination. Honestly in general the food was OK but not great and nothing I'd drive out of my way for. I almost never consider service as part of my review since it varies all the time everywhere but in this case it sort of even lessened the experience so MUCH that I have to consider it otherwise I would have given Christo's three stars.\n\nOur waiter quickly greats us and ask if we want the menu or the restaurant week special. Despite being around 70 years old he was very quick talking and very speedy and sort of made us nervous but what really bothered me the most was him and his helpers standing there not to far from us with his arms crossed just watching us like a hawk eating the whole time. \n\nNow the food.\n\nI started with a Christo's Caesar Salad. I could tell the dressing was house made as well as the croutons. The dressing wasn't properly emulsified nor was it balanced in flavors and was super heavy with lemon. The croutons were crisp and buttery. I pointed out the faults since I know them but it really was an OK salad. I do note I wasn't offered fresh ground pepper, nicer restaurants do offer fresh ground pepper for Caesar Salads.\n\nI was sort of excited to have the classic dish Sole Meuniere here. The Christo's Version is nontraditional as the fish seemed heavily coated (maybe battered not sure) with flour in a lemon white wine sauce in stead of a traditional lightly floured and prepared in browned butter. The fresh spinach on the side was just plain without anything on it. \n\nDesserts seemed house made and were OK. We both liked the lemon cake better over the mousse.\n\nA glass of house wine was included with our dinners and during the meal we finished it and my husband ordered another round. He noticed a price difference from the menu and questioned our server. The server confirmed it wasn't the same price as the menu and said that for restaurant week they up charge the wine. It was only a few dollars but I feel this is bad business and not good for customer relations.\n\nI was really torn between two and three stars but the surprise of the wine up charge, being really rushed though dinner and with the waiter and his help all standing across from us just watching us the whole time in a unprofessional way sort of spoiled the dining experience.\n\n2.5 Stars", "business_id": "3CSaqRNvYg7ZdN2zwxwzVw", "stars": 2, "date": "2013-09-28", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "8p8HZNmrkUBtMx_vmW9dNQ", "review_id": "diPLA2hqyWGNS0BnV8nJDQ", "text": "Update: We returned three years later and found that this restaurant is unchanged...really good. Came for lunch and I had musels and linguini. There was a choice of sauces. I had butter and garlic sauce. Delicious.\nBut wait!! There's more!! My wife and I had soup which comes with the lunch meal. The soup was a rice and lemon soup. It also had diced carrots and celery in it and it was superb. \nWife had for her lunch, sausage with peppers and onions. She was very pleased with hers.\nService was superb. \nPrices were very reasonable.\nWe've already decided to come back again....the problem is who do we want to come with us that we can introduce them to this little jem.", "business_id": "3CSaqRNvYg7ZdN2zwxwzVw", "stars": 5, "date": "2013-10-30", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "_TKfJJH6nekfUuf8Cq8rSQ", "review_id": "G5x-NO8enRShbbkUsJJpMQ", "text": "Christos is a family-owned Italian restaurant that has been around for more than 30 years. Given that it is still crowded for lunch and dinner most days, that says a lot. Whether we visit for lunch or dinner, we are NEVER disappointed. They have a great Caesar salad, and a variety of moderately-priced pastas. It's a quiet, dignified place with a great wait staff, so conversation is possible. Our dining companions are always satisfied. It's a very traditional place, so if that suits you, there is much to enjoy here.", "business_id": "3CSaqRNvYg7ZdN2zwxwzVw", "stars": 4, "date": "2013-11-13", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "uv64oIkYYPglCKI4B5xO_A", "review_id": "IuGmvJBj9J1kW5dSm9OpRw", "text": "Best Italian food ever... Love the chicken piccata. I don't leave Phoenix without stopping here.", "business_id": "3CSaqRNvYg7ZdN2zwxwzVw", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-09-25", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "CrQ-nnCQvW0qJi8vtF5jyw", "review_id": "IX_5UM_JOzVm30wOiMemTA", "text": "Went here last night with a group for a friend's birthday. Never been before but will definitely be back in the future. Service was on par. Food was incredibly insanely delicious. I had the Chilean Sea Bass. Real not fake like some other establishments. It was probably the best I've ever had. Ever. Enjoyed some Black Sambucca after the meal. It was a great evening with good friends!", "business_id": "3CSaqRNvYg7ZdN2zwxwzVw", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-09-27", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "hkI1faLVyOHugxL2P2wJdg", "review_id": "LLVaJVR7YsuCGOSCTF6oYQ", "text": "Wonderful experience! Being from Italy, I always have the urge to check out new places, and when I saw \"Italian cuisine\" I had to stop and test it. As I walked in, I immediately felt welcome. Kelsie, the bartender, was very nice and friendly. Excellent start, since the authentic Italian culture is based on welcoming and well-mannered people. Food was outstanding as well. I had the mozzarella caprese followed by the special of the day: halibut piccata. But what really impressed me was the dessert: limoncello cake!!! It's not like the usual American cakes with tons of sugar and frosting...this cake was at the 'right degree' of sweetness, very light and fluffy. Concluding, 5 stars to Christo's! I'll definitely come back to try the pasta! :-)", "business_id": "3CSaqRNvYg7ZdN2zwxwzVw", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-10-08", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "9TNM2EmXv-h6_dCg_fByQQ", "review_id": "rDPO3ahf4IZip2vkWqcijQ", "text": "I have read the previous reviews on this restaurant and normally I would agree since we are returning customers. But as of October 30, 2015, I will have to change my rating. We had dinner reservations for 4 people and were looking forward to a great meal. \nWe were seated at our table and waited quite a few minutes for our waiter to come over. When he did arrive there was no greeting of welcome, how are you etc. He only asked what we wanted to drink. We were not able to tell him since he did not bring over the wine menu. When he did return he brought the wine menu and the dinner menu but we had to ask him what the specials were. We placed our drink and hors d'oeuvre selections and while we were waiting for our selections, a group of six were seated behind us dressed in halloween costumes and acted as if they owned the restaurant. Our server waited on them and brought out wines/drinks and salads to them before we had any items on our table. This group behind us were definitely in \"party mode\" as they were getting louder and louder. After we finished our soup and salad, the noise level from that table was now at disaster level. We were not able to hear or speak to anyone at our table due to the noise. We asked to move and were seated in the bar area where it was much quieter. Our entrees were delivered but our server did not come back to our table to see if everything was alright or if we needed anything.We were going to order more wine but since no one came over we cancelled the idea. We had to ask other servers to bring bread etc. So definitely the evening was very disappointing for us and most likely a return visit is not in the future. What was really disappointing is the fact that the managerial staff did not seem to care that we were inconvenienced by other rude customers\nwho had no regard for anyone else in the restaurant.", "business_id": "3CSaqRNvYg7ZdN2zwxwzVw", "stars": 2, "date": "2015-10-31", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "kAHUx9Z-vwaahW5cpoUg0w", "review_id": "_lrRZn4RvFvjT3j7Tx0iLA", "text": "For this Thanksgiving get together, we actually had a little drama. Unfortunately, I was the focus. Fortunately, I was quickly taken away by the Osso Bucco which was delicious and succulent in a tasty broth. A small fork was provided for digging out the marrow but was really needed was an anteater tongue or large sledgehammer to slurp up every morsel of marrow. \nThe Calamari starter was tender and perfectly seasoned. The maragarita goblets are fantastic old school bar cocktails and 2 were sufficient to make anyone happy.\nCome bring some family drama with some calamari, osso bucco, and cocktails for a great evening.", "business_id": "3CSaqRNvYg7ZdN2zwxwzVw", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-11-25", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 1, "cool": 2}, "user_id": "Ry48Bta6spNowOkiMNC_xg", "review_id": "FJQQz1ttkyxKwyY1yKUs7w", "text": "When in Phoenix, our family circle of dining out has a small radius. Lone Star is one of the restaurants consistently in our orbit. We used to dine here for special occasions. Unfortunate circumstances put us into lots more restaurants for meals these days. \n\nOur favorite foods, like so many other Yelp*ers are the pork chops with sweet potato on the side. Cinnamon & butter on the side please. Mom goes big for the half rack of ribs and sweet potato. We usually take half home. I enjoy the salad wedge/steak wedge or steak salad. I'm taking a liking to the French Dip, Sweet D is eating burgers more these days with their fat, hand formed sirloin patties. \n\nSpeaking of hand formed, Lone Star's steaks are aged off-site, but are hand cut in the back room. The bleu cheese dressing, all sauces and the cobbler-type desserts are made on-premises. The Bovarian brown bread appetizer loaves and baguettes arrive from Texas by truck. Does SB 1070 allow that? Salted peanuts are no longer automatic, frequency of allergenic attack made them a \"by request only\" item. \n\nKera, Assistant Manager is on the floor, circulating and greeting. She and one other cafe owner are the top circulators where we eat. We've spoken with Joe, the Manager off and on, and another manager some years back. \n\nService is attentive, as mentioned by several other reviewers. My glass is never half empty. We're getting to know Jasmina of the many pens. She and Sweet D are passionate about office supplies. \n\nLone Star is a chain, which BTW Yelp*ers, corporate reads your reviews. My mind keeps it in on the same steak house shelf as two other steak house chains. We've been to all three. Lone Star is the place we return. Price, quality, service, close to where out evening business keeps us. I suggest the old bald plastic cacti be replaced. Someone plucks spines obsessively. I wonder if someone has a Lone Star cactus spine stash at home? \n\nSomebody snarked away on Lone Star, with a mixed list of chains and locally owned places to eat. Rate chains with chains, local with locals, its only fair. Unless you've had one two many giant margaritas, then you'll say whatever you want no matter what. \n\nThis place is fine. I guarantee we'll be back. Sweet D misses the line dancing of yore, and Joe, when you read the lines below, I expect you to jump up on the bar divider and dance your heart out with a grin.... \n\n(Courtesy David Allen Coe and Steve Goodman) \n\nWELL, IT WAS ALL \nTHAT I COULD DO TO KEEP FROM CRYING \nSOMETIMES IT SEEMED SO USELESS TO REMAIN \nBUT YOU DON'T HAVE TO CALL ME DARLIN', DARLIN' \nYOU NEVER EVEN CALL ME BY MY NAME \n\nYOU DON'T HAVE TO CALL ME WAYLON JENNINGS \nAND YOU DON'T HAVE TO CALL ME CHARLIE PRIDE \nAND YOU DON'T HAVE TO CALL ME MERLE HAGGARD/ANYMORE \nEVEN THOUGH YOU'RE ON MY FIGHTING SIDE \n\nCHORUS: \nAND I'LL HANG AROUND AS LONG AS YOU WILL LET ME \nAND I NEVER MINDED STANDING IN THE RAIN \nBUT YOU DON'T HAVE TO CALL ME DARLIN', DARLIN' \nYOU NEVER EVEN CALLED ME BY MY NAME \n\nWELL, I'VE HEARD MY NAME \nA FEW TIMES IN YOUR PHONE BOOK (Hello, Hello) \nAND I'VE SEEN IT ON SIGNS WHERE I'VE PLAYED \nBUT THE ONLY TIME I KNOW \nI'LL HEAR \"DAVID ALLAN COE\" \nIS WHEN JESUS HAS HIS FINAL JUDGMENT DAY \n\nREPEAT CHORUS \n\nRECITATION: \nWELL, A FRIEND OF MINE NAMED STEVE GOODMAN WROTE THAT SONG AND HE TOLD ME IT WAS THE PERFECT COUNTRY & WESTERN SONG \n\nI WROTE HIM BACK A LETTER AND I TOLD HIM IT WAS NOT THE PERFECT COUNTRY & WESTERN SONG BECAUSE HE HADN'T SAID ANYTHING AT ALL ABOUT MAMA, OR TRAINS, OR TRUCKS, \nOR PRISON, OR GETTING DRUNK \n\nWELL HE SAT DOWN AND WROTE ANOTHER VERSE TO THE SONG AND HE SENT IT TO ME, \nAND AFTER READING IT, I REALIZED THAT MY FRIEND HAD WRITTEN THE PERFECT COUNTRY & WESTERN SONG \nAND I FELT OBLIGED TO INCLUDE IT ON THIS ALBUM \n\nTHE LAST VERSE GOES LIKE THIS HERE: \n\nWELL, I WAS DRUNK THE DAY MY MOM GOT OUT OF PRISON \nAND I WENT TO PICK HER UP IN THE RAIN \nBUT BEFORE I COULD GET TO THE STATION IN MY PICKUP TRUCK \nSHE GOT RUNNED OVER BY A DAMNED OLD TRAIN \n\nCHORUS: \nAND I'LL HANG AROUND AS LONG AS YOU WILL LET ME \nAND I NEVER MINDED STANDING IN THE RAIN \nNO, A YOU DON'T HAVE TO CALL ME DARLIN, DARLIN \nYOU NEVER EVEN CALL ME \nWELL I WONDER WHY YOU DON'T CALL ME \nWHY DON'T YOU EVER CALL ME BY MY NAME", "business_id": "gQjTs4BDNYSu9oJhkEsssw", "stars": 4, "date": "2011-09-16", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "7Ot-v89x44U_VdIPgD3qKg", "review_id": "fp73RBYM6NAnNWii9bxZ8w", "text": "Great food and a rare bird of a honest manager when it comes to whats in the food. They have very comfy booths. Did nor care for the country music. I was able to blank out the music.", "business_id": "gQjTs4BDNYSu9oJhkEsssw", "stars": 4, "date": "2011-10-18", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "tjAz4KNAQSNaednU4WWaeg", "review_id": "ouZayFj4kBGA0pcLpPTNKQ", "text": "Convenient, safe, easy, anonymous. Perfect for an illicit tryst away from anyone you might know.", "business_id": "gQjTs4BDNYSu9oJhkEsssw", "stars": 3, "date": "2011-11-14", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "100Df1wcVrl9rJgB7EG6xw", "review_id": "RchE38eHC5b7Lfu-GjIUjg", "text": "Service here is awful. Came in to a not so busy restaurant and was never seated, even after 3 groups of people came in after us. They seemed to have a lot of people doing nothing. I wouldn't recommend this place at all.", "business_id": "gQjTs4BDNYSu9oJhkEsssw", "stars": 1, "date": "2012-10-05", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "_h2h6TX5xhhWFIPMnpMd3g", "review_id": "a3yH81FVxra_UuXHrKbQ7A", "text": "I really don't know what people are bitching about. It's a steakhouse, so how is the steak? I've had the porterhouse and the ribeye, both medium rare as a steak should be prepared, and both were excellent cut and quality. I take my steak seriously whether I'm grilling it or ordering it and this place knows how to grill a steak. High heat, salt, cracked pepper, and butter. Perfect. The sides were excellent as well and we've always had friendly service. I'd take Lone Star over Outback any day. I only wish we had a Cattleman's here, but this is the next best option.", "business_id": "gQjTs4BDNYSu9oJhkEsssw", "stars": 4, "date": "2012-10-08", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "jHwEOGkgl0yQ-oLWxiCAGg", "review_id": "CVBR--95fLZun5hdonwQ5g", "text": "Living close by we eat here quite often, I usually order the bubba burger or the chopped steak because they cook it exactly the way I like meat, bloody. I do wish they offered a plain mashed potato rather than the garlic mashed, I am not too much of a potato skin fan unless it's a baked tater. The service here is always excellent but I do have to agree on a busy day the parking lot is quite a challenge. I think $6.29 for 5 extra grilled shrimp is kind of pricey, especially if you've spent a small fortune on dinner. I recommend the 2 for $25 meal if they still have it available. They have taken feedback and expanded what they offer for the specials menu. The spinach and artichoke dip is a pretty tasty appetizer.", "business_id": "gQjTs4BDNYSu9oJhkEsssw", "stars": 4, "date": "2012-11-04", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "SInpm1Y38JVB0DHwLKx1yQ", "review_id": "jZQ8n7Gwa6elLO91f2bbjw", "text": "This place was pretty good! I had baby back ribs & fries, and both were very flavorful. The ribs were extremely tender, and the fries had an excellent seasoning on them. The service was decent - it was a pretty quiet time of day when we were there - but attentive.", "business_id": "gQjTs4BDNYSu9oJhkEsssw", "stars": 4, "date": "2013-09-13", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "iVeqN7iqrjY9knZSX9NbVg", "review_id": "OCHX_8VUSSl4tfJC5moI3w", "text": "The New York Sirloin was cooked well, but it was pretty tough. The online menu said they had prime rib, which is why we came, but they don't even sell it. Our server Bryan was very good", "business_id": "gQjTs4BDNYSu9oJhkEsssw", "stars": 3, "date": "2013-09-16", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "SPZdlHkpKfdZFuglpmj8Sw", "review_id": "eaoVJrjlZpbR1elFKctFjw", "text": "I called Lone Star to order the spicy spinach dip and the Steak sandwich for takeout, along with a salad. I was told that my food would be ready in about 15 minutes. Since I live in the general vicinity, it took me about 15 minutes to drive there. I'm surprised to have never noticed them before and they're a fairly large restaurant kinda hard to miss, even in a mini mall. Parking, close to the restaurant, is somewhat limited but you do have plenty of mall parking spots to consider. My total came to $20 and change. \n\nThe dip was quite spicy and cheesy spinach superb. The nacho chips were fresh and warm. I ordered my steak well done. It was perfectly cooked and tender. Since I ordered takeout (had to pickup at the bar), I added A1 sauce to my sandwich once I got home. The salad was good, and they put my requested salad dressing on the side, along with pickles, onions and tomatoes.\n\nOverall, it was a nice meal and I'd go again, if just for the food.", "business_id": "gQjTs4BDNYSu9oJhkEsssw", "stars": 4, "date": "2013-09-23", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "lejbGgNzXy2VS7b7fmrFPA", "review_id": "LfSpTWbjz5cXGaTFq_vSkA", "text": "The food was good, but not delicious, I had the steak sandwich \"delmonico\" the steak was tough and poorly seasoned. The portion is great, i usually split it with someone else. The place is spacious for a large group and they have seating that isn't so close to another person. The staff is friendly but somewhat inpatient, but then again we were a large group.", "business_id": "gQjTs4BDNYSu9oJhkEsssw", "stars": 4, "date": "2013-10-13", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "D8TlrpLhMPPdgS21HeYObQ", "review_id": "yDFqoeUgXtzViVxkVwTQ6g", "text": "It had been awhile since I'd been to a Lone Star and I really had no memories of the experience, so a few friends and I decided to try it out as it was the nearest steakhouse to our location.\n\nWe were extremely disappointed. Although the service was just fine and the bread & cheese fries were tasty, the rest of the food was either wholly unremarkable or completely unsatisfactory.\n\nI ordered the 8 oz. sirloin (so cold and purple throughout that it could walk off the plate on its own; I know, go ahead and make a face...), with saut\u00e9ed mushrooms and a house salad (no onions, extra ranch dressing) as my sides.\n\nThe salad was very plain and had nothing about it to distinguish it from any other salad anywhere (including one you would make at home or one that you would get from any buffet salad bar anywhere in the nation). I did not expect the salad to be the highlight of the meal, but usually there is something (a spiced up ranch dressing, flavored croutons, etc) that add to uniqueness of a 'house' salad. Not this time. Meh.\n\nWhen my entr\u00e9e showed up, the steak was warm, light pink throughout, rubbery, and absolutely flavorless. No rub, no marinade, and the cut had clearly either been recently frozen or sitting in a fridge for an extended period of time because the flavor of oxidation was rife. Please note that I never expect there to be marinades or rubs on a steak, but then I do expect the cut to stand up on its own (which it did not in this case).\n\nThe saut\u00e9ed mushrooms were particularly disappointing. I love saut\u00e9ed mushrooms. Adore them. I require nothing more than a little butter or oil on them and then just go to town in that pan! The mushrooms I received were a mix of mushrooms that had been saut\u00e9ed to the point of shriveled brown lumps and those that had been held over a warm microwave for 15 seconds. On top of this odd culinary spectrum, there seemed to be nothing but water on them, which didn't do anything to assist in the flavor. A quarter through the meal, I'd had enough and claimed a full tummy (a white lie... forgive me).\n\nAlthough the server was kind and competent, the food was a severe let down and I would never return to this or any other location. Sorry, Lone Star.", "business_id": "gQjTs4BDNYSu9oJhkEsssw", "stars": 1, "date": "2013-11-01", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "3U6yfkk_VulP9kh6VOf3gQ", "review_id": "JXE85iNeWu4EWDC59PGyig", "text": "Great lunch specials, fast service as we go to work after and have limited time. We joined the lunch club so every 5th lunch is free.", "business_id": "gQjTs4BDNYSu9oJhkEsssw", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-09-09", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "9ncGURGkzVz-bU27QpFoVA", "review_id": "gOJejSnGttw1H4NkNXqlEw", "text": "Good food. Good prices. Good specialty bar drinks. One of the better 'chain' steak joints, for the price.", "business_id": "gQjTs4BDNYSu9oJhkEsssw", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-10-08", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "owuNTUXQfktTMPqoYwqFXw", "review_id": "5-7p_q5z_7ngLOPHxLaFCQ", "text": "We rarely go to chains but we were in the area and yelped this spot. I came across the pic of the wedge salad with steak and instantly craved it! It was tasty and filling. My son got the chicken tenders and fries and rated it a 10 out of 10. Even better, and we didn't know this until we got the check, but my sons meal was free...we went on a Tuesday and there was no advertisement for kids eat free so not sure what days they do this, but it was an extra perk for us:) if I'm craving another steak salad I will be back for sure! And the fries and ranch are amazing!!", "business_id": "gQjTs4BDNYSu9oJhkEsssw", "stars": 3, "date": "2015-10-11", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "F2GEqt_mV95OQEiYPTQ4VQ", "review_id": "tdBEvI3RBhMTq2REYk4EZQ", "text": "Good service. Overpriced, mediocre food. $6 dollars for a short rum and diet with hardly any rum in it. $5 for a store bought slice of apple pie that was so tiny.", "business_id": "gQjTs4BDNYSu9oJhkEsssw", "stars": 2, "date": "2015-11-01", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "Cw-PSJBNFtzWvUNeBsLxTQ", "review_id": "_51wJSXUBb--ul2dCqSBlQ", "text": "Food was good\nService was terrible \nAt least there's no saw dust on the floor\nNot inexpensive \nI wish I had the energy to put more but I honestly don't care about this place.", "business_id": "gQjTs4BDNYSu9oJhkEsssw", "stars": 3, "date": "2015-11-19", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "lrjgNyhUfG2KgiNpTCJ62Q", "review_id": "xb3RfMMKcYUzLf1RGPsT0Q", "text": "The only reason I am giving 2 stars is because I didn't technically get what I paid for. I placed a to go order for the San Antonio sirloin which is an 8oz steak. I meal prep so I make sure I have the correct portions. I thought it felt a little light and looks a little smaller. So I placed the sirloin on my food scale and it weighed out to 6.4oz. I called the restaurant spoke to the manager and advised her of this. She told me I can drive back and see if \"maybe\" they can get me the correct ounce, because the morning Chef's are the ones that weigh and cut it. I shouldn't have to drive back because of their mistake. It should have been correct the first time. Super disappointed, and live too far away to drive back for a \"maybe\" i can get what I paid for.", "business_id": "gQjTs4BDNYSu9oJhkEsssw", "stars": 2, "date": "2015-11-29", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 3, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "0-TxcfXJmLuK4sbVhCF-MQ", "review_id": "ugBrEaILyf3wxyj6bmQqOw", "text": "Perhaps I'm in the minority here, but I did not think the Fish Market was anything special at all. Sure, the seafood is fresh and there is a large selection. But fresh and selection only gets you so far. The menu lacks any innovation on behalf of the chefs, and the entire interior (and exterior) are just...blah! Lackluster, boring, unimpressive, less than inspired, and fishy smelling. I know, it's the fish market. And I'm a huge seafood fan. But, still, a little more effort in apperance and ambiance would go a long way. The food was ok. Oysters as an appetizer were filling and rich. My salmon was a little overcooked, and while it ended up tasting ok, the presentation was less than appetizing. I will say the portions are huge and along with the sides, I was full with less than half my entree. For dessert, our creme brulee was way over-burnt on the top. I thought service was slow and unattentive aside from drink refills. I guess if you're looking for a simple fish on a dish, this is a place for you...but anything more, then look elsewhere.", "business_id": "SOHp2b8quJEitFeuO58Syw", "stars": 2, "date": "2008-11-09", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 4, "cool": 3}, "user_id": "0bNXP9quoJEgyVZu9ipGgQ", "review_id": "svtILYE8ajGeTu04MHVIug", "text": "Haven't been back for many months (perhaps a year or more!), and I don't know why. Oh yes, now I remember... so many restaurants, so little time!\n\nHappy hour apps specials are great! Most are under $5, and many are quite good. Our favorites rolls are the spicy scallop and the spider (deep-fried soft-shelled crab!!). It's been so long since my last visit that I cannot recall more HH faves, so I am definitely going to return in the very near future.\n\nWe've only eaten dinner here once, and we decided to split the cioppino. And were we glad that we did- the soup entree was very large! We enjoyed the bread served, and it was a nice complement to the cioppino... we enjoyed dipping it into the broth to enjoy every last drop! Oh yeah, time to pay The Fish Market a visit for happy hour.", "business_id": "SOHp2b8quJEitFeuO58Syw", "stars": 4, "date": "2008-11-30", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "g6rlp5No6GjEDXkrjvg1kQ", "review_id": "krz0b9EolQ0q1Z9yKteBQw", "text": "FYI this place is closed..it's now Bluewater Grille. But looks like the exact same place pretty much..add a couple booths and take out a wall. Decided to try the 5 entree choices for $5 deal that they had going. The Sourdough bread is AMAZING!!! My friend and I tried the Fish & Chips.. It was good no doubt, and many will enjoy. But it just wasn't unique enough or amazing for me. There are too many restaurants in Az that DO fit that bill.. to return to \"decent\". The fish is good, it's fresh but it's just that.", "business_id": "SOHp2b8quJEitFeuO58Syw", "stars": 2, "date": "2009-10-16", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "U9antcb-UnhwfogQGbG9Tw", "review_id": "B14-FtYhZX6NtE9fD8qcvw", "text": "Just wanted to 2nd the high marks on the happy hour menu. Perfect place to get beer and food after a movie at the AMC right beside it. I was a little intimidated by how nice the place looked, but the bar is comfortable, and the happy hour menu is for real.", "business_id": "MU3i2uEyUBntebU6pEyMbw", "stars": 4, "date": "2006-10-25", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 4, "cool": 3}, "user_id": "HOleI3jz1MLNUJ6cc1x0Pw", "review_id": "sc0PPdZX54B7tG3V_cjLKQ", "text": "We went back to McCormick's happy hour last Friday and were pleased to find that the margaritas and super-discounted food were just as good as we remembered. We had four of the $1.95 plates (some of which had changed since the last time we went) and two of their freshly-squeezed, freshly-mixed margaritas. \n\nThe margaritas were also still absolutely delicious, but we were a little disappointed to find out that they still cost $10 even with well tequila (last time we had gotten Patron and therefore expected a higher price tag). I still recommend trying them if you're a true margarita fan, but just know that you'll have to shell out a pretty penny (5 times as much as the happy hour price for the bruschetta, in fact). \n\nOne other note - if you're going to go check this place out (and either smoke or don't mind smoke), go while the weather is still nice but a bit cooler and sit on the patio (the side by the bar is happy hour seating). It was so beautiful outside when we went, the misters were refreshing, and when we looked up, there was a beautiful (and unexpected) view of the mountains across Camelback.", "business_id": "MU3i2uEyUBntebU6pEyMbw", "stars": 4, "date": "2008-09-17", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 4, "useful": 7, "cool": 6}, "user_id": "0bNXP9quoJEgyVZu9ipGgQ", "review_id": "8RQmqcxak0yFXpdblEx1dg", "text": "I usually have a hard time persuading Mom to join me for a restaurant meal. Not so when I bring up seafood at McCormick & Schmick's! We both enjoy the sour dough table bread and butter that is only given when requested. Lunch items are decent in prices and portions. I find that the dayshift staff here are more friendly and efficient than the night shift. The lunch meals flowed very smoothly: glasses always full and extra hot bread brought to the table when asked (w/out our having to repeat ourselves). Happy hour and dinner services are something else entirely.\n\nI don't deny that happy hour apps are nicely priced. I've only experienced HH here once, and it took awhile before I found a table I wanted to sit at (outside was noisy and smoky, and the only chairs available by the bar inside were at the ends). It took quite some time before my server arrived. I usually only order HH apps since I rarely drink, but she told me I had to order a drink, any drink that costs at least $2.75, before I could take advantage of the HH app specials. So I ordered my first (and so far, my last) Arnold Palmer, which is a beverage that is half-tea and half-lemonade. For apps, I tried the clam strips, fish tacos, and the cheeseburger and fries. I thought the clam strips were too bread-y: not much clam-meat, just batter and seasoning. It tasted pre-frozen. The fish tacos were decent, but not filling. The star app here were the cheeseburger and fries! The burger was HUGE!! The fries were numerous in quantity, too! The pleasant surprise in the value of the burger and fries mitigated the disappointment I felt over the clam strips. One huge complaint, however, was the fact that my server only saw me once, and that was to get my drink and appetizer orders. She never came back to check on whether I would like another drink or something else from the HH and dinner menus. \n\nMom and I had dinner here last night (Saturday). I couldn't believe how dead it was, considering it was only 8:15p. We already knew we wanted to order the Dungeness crab and shrimp bisque for her and the mixed grill special for me (salmon, seabass with coconut rice and asparagus, and the shrimp-crabcake, which Mom could have since I have a shrimp allergy (sob! I LOVE crabcakes!). The mixed grill entree also comes with creme brulee! Mom wasn't sure which size soup to order, but our male server told us that the cup was very small in portion, so I asked for the bowl (which, in the end, was too much). We also asked for bread, which thankfully arrived within a few minutes. The soup took another ten minutes. Mom didn't think it was anything special. Indeed, she thought that the Red Lobster bisque we enjoyed in Illinois years ago was much better. I do remember the bread bowls of deliciousness from years past; we loved the chunkiness of the RL bisque, as well. I told her that the higher-tabbed venues seem to serve less-chunky and more silky-smooth pureed bisques (we both agreed that chunky bisques are the best!). The mixed grill took more than 40 minutes from the time I placed the order, which is unacceptable. Grilled seafood doesn't take long to cook!! The entree was very delicious, though, but I would be hard-pressed to order it again if it is going to take this long to prepare. I was also disappointed to see that the coconut rice contained *. I LOVE *, but my immune system doesn't, and nowhere in the menu description was it mentioned that * were included. Mom took the tainted half, but I still ended with vertigo and painful abdominal cramps from eating the \"clean\" half (it seemed like the rice was pre-molded in a tiny bowl or ice-cream scoop with the * in the bottom of the mold, and then placed onto the plate). The * looked beautiful in the presentation (and Mom thought the rice tasted fine), but had I known sooner, I'd have requested them to be omitted, or at least be placed on the side. I loved the salmon and the seabass, which were perfectly seasoned, but I found the rice too squishy, as if too much liquid was used. The sticks of asparagus were perfectly crunchy and great in flavor! Mom absolutely loved the crabcake... I was so jealous! Service was objectionable: long waiting time, 2nd request for bread was forgotten, and the wait times for the seafood, brulee (yum!), and ticket were too long in between.\n\nHope to give a favorable happy hour update! I'd like to try some of those grilled salmon cakes Stevie P. mentioned. I'll have to take everybody's word on the margaritas' goodness... Not much of a drinker to justify my spending $10 on one drink. (Although, Roy's Hawaiian Martini is definitely worth paying $10 for... so smooth!)", "business_id": "MU3i2uEyUBntebU6pEyMbw", "stars": 4, "date": "2008-11-10", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "vPwuN6G5Miv22Trw1Et3VA", "review_id": "yY6nN_DqD6NkNpzj5NgW-w", "text": "Great happy hours, great service and food.", "business_id": "MU3i2uEyUBntebU6pEyMbw", "stars": 5, "date": "2008-11-25", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "qGl1xfS0okKRbSH8vvucGA", "review_id": "RknjzEZFuojevp3ffcuYiA", "text": "I don't usually rave about food as I'm eating dinner. Heck, I don't usually stop to actually taste the food. I usually just scarf it down and go. Tonight was an exception.\n\nStarting with the steamed clams for an appetizer and on to the salad greens with pecans topped by balsamic dressing, the start of this dinner went very well.\n\nThen Chef Sanchez' main courses came out. My companion had the Maine lobster and I had the halibut. The lobster was done to tender perfection and the halibut was flavorful, moist, and flaky. I found myself taking time to savor the taste of the halibut along with the grilled portabello mushroom cap, deep fried tomato, and asparagus.\n\nEven the presentations were amazing and the service from our waiter, David, was exemplary.\n\nThe ambience, the service, the food... all top of the line. I don't expect any of that from a restaurant chain which made the experience that much better.", "business_id": "MU3i2uEyUBntebU6pEyMbw", "stars": 5, "date": "2009-10-17", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "3Vsd6Rd4CHHFtjo7xIp7Lw", "review_id": "-1eV2qevYYKizDASJy8Aeg", "text": "I usually don't review chain restaurants since I don't want everyone to know that I eat at them...but I have to give a shout to this location of McCormick's! We were in Phoenix for a quick weekend and I had neglected to do any Yelp research before leaving, so when my bf found M&S from the concierge we decided to give it a go. We had been disappointed with our last experience at the one in Dallas so I was mainly just hoping to have my hunger satiated so I could go to bed.\n\nI was very pleasantly surprised. We were hungry so ordered what felt like tons of food (don't judge!). The mussels and bruschetta to start were great! The mussels were small, the way I like them, and the sauce/broth/bread soak they were in was amazing. I had the halibut stuffed with a bunch of stuff as suggested by our server, bf had the dover sole, both were good, but that dover sole was amazing!!!! very light and perfectly cooked. I wish I could cook fish like that.\n\nWe finished with some kind of passionfruit mousse dessert that was SO good. I almost took another one to go.\n\nThe service was great. I would go back to this M&S location anytime I was in town.", "business_id": "MU3i2uEyUBntebU6pEyMbw", "stars": 4, "date": "2009-11-03", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "PShy2RYNadDUhJf4ErOJ7w", "review_id": "av2mNVoNoB4-kz1pkrkknw", "text": "The service was pretty awesome. \nThe food was very meh in my opinion.\n\nI got the restaurant week menu and ordered:\nlobster bisque\nsteak and lobster tail\nchocolate tuxedo cake\n\nI enjoyed everything but the steak and lobster.\nThe stead was worse than anything you'd be served at Applebees. For real. The lobster was tasteless and rubbery.\n\nWill not be returning for food, ever again. Maybe I'd return just to sit at the bar and talk with the friendly bartenders and drink. Maybe.", "business_id": "MU3i2uEyUBntebU6pEyMbw", "stars": 3, "date": "2010-09-22", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "ypchLi34T9SlWmVjcMz9Mg", "review_id": "kAztvy5hxrnQOgilxWojIg", "text": "Check out their Thanksgiving lunch special. Food, service and price was great.", "business_id": "MU3i2uEyUBntebU6pEyMbw", "stars": 4, "date": "2010-11-05", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "59pVYStY0yKpRmODFIfDww", "review_id": "prFoub1jGt7my2kbmxahkQ", "text": "I highly recommend this restaurant, especially for their happy hour! Totally worth it and the food is excellent! My favorite are the Seared Blackened Ahi which tasted superb and the Black Mussels. I tried the escargot, bruschetta and catfish bites as well and they were all tasted wonderful! I highly recommend to try this place as I found it's the best restaurant for happy hours and dinner! Great choice!", "business_id": "MU3i2uEyUBntebU6pEyMbw", "stars": 5, "date": "2010-11-19", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "4IxLt4QvCsJEdaNvH9QApw", "review_id": "I2xgI1BxtYHPMhAApRPbeQ", "text": "Capital Grill is what is is. A steakhouse chain. It's predictable and classy atmosphere is great for business entertaining. With so many food options here in Phoenix, I certainly wouldn't take an out-of-towner here.", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 3, "date": "2008-09-07", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 2}, "user_id": "engDBDCpr56s1wt96JLDng", "review_id": "b4BrI54g907jadFxz-G-sw", "text": "Selected for a private party of 12, we enjoyed the Wine Room as a group for dinner and drinks on a Sat night. \n\nThe room was perfect- a square set up so everyone could be together and enjoy convo and share the al la carte sides. Our server, Chad, was super sweet and on top of it. Not a moment went by without our glasses filled or a finished plate cleared. \n\nI had an amazing steak- of course- which I do not eat often because once you have it at a place like this, it is hard to imagine trying to duplicate. I put the creamed spinich on top and it was amazing. I also sampled the lobster mac and cheese which tempted me to lick the plate and also the lobster bisque. WOW. Seriously, everything knocked my pants off.\n\nIt seemed like all hands on deck kept the night smooth and us feeling taken care of. Outstanding service is so rare, and I must compliment the team there for being friendly- not snotty or unapproachable- and very attentive. \n\nPerfect for a special nite out or a group in the private room.", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 5, "date": "2008-10-07", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "QSQeU6bDea42m6yH_pOQ8A", "review_id": "tfPjJMZo1cGUiu4Fkzqdsg", "text": "A nice sirloin steak (NY cut according to the waiter) would not be so thick and not be chewy either. Dry aged steak? They just aren't supposed to be chewy. The side dishes were mediocre. The bread on the other hand was nice because of the large selection they offer. The raisin wheat bread was the best. \n\nIt didn't help that it was late and we were very hungry. \n\nAgain, steak is not supposed to be chewy. One would expect much more for the price.", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 2, "date": "2008-11-13", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 9, "useful": 14, "cool": 16}, "user_id": "0bNXP9quoJEgyVZu9ipGgQ", "review_id": "bs_fbAb3gMmJRRfZ6EFpBA", "text": "9/22\n\nCame to try their Restaurant Week menu, and sat at one of the tables at the bar section of the restaurant. I liked its subdued and quaint atmosphere; however, the smooth jazz music's volume was turned up significantly as the afternoon turned into dusk. It's a good thing I enjoy smooth jazz.\n\nChose the French onion soup starter, the Kona-crusted sirloin steak entree, and cheesecake w/ fresh berries sauce to finish. I really enjoyed the onion soup- salty from the cheese, yet just enough sweetness from the caramelized onions. I really liked how some areas of the cheese that blanketed the bowl were crispy! I thought perhaps it was the bread that sometimes one would find below the cheese, but no, it was the cheese itself. Wished the whole piece was crunchy...\n\nI absolutely adored the Kona-crusted sirloin. Cooked to medium- perfect!- and I could taste the coffee, too, and not just feel the texture of coffee grains, as I've ordered similar entrees from other venues, but never tasted the intended effect. The caramelized shallot cream sauce absolutely floored me! One of the best sauces that has graced my lips :) Mmm... The entree came with two standard sides (no substitutes allowed, or at least that was what I was told) of creamed spinach and smashed red potatoes. Both were delightful- decadently rich and creamy. Before I forget, the table bread basket (seeded dinner rolls and lavosh) was good, especially the seeded rolls. You may also order toasted sourdough if you have food allergies to avoid.\n\nStepping back down, but not much, from the piece de resistance (in this meal, the standout was the steak), was the creme brulee cheesecake w/ berry sauce w/ fresh berries! Simply incredible! While I had to return the more beautiful (more caramelized sugar crust) first offering, untouched, due to food issues, the second was less visually stunning, but tasted divine. I should've asked for more sauce on the side, as I ended up taking some home. (Believe me, it took all of my willpower to stop myself from inhaling the whole dish!)\n\nI would definitely love to go back again!", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 4, "date": "2009-10-02", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "_vYaOd7kdLpbT-YxkiJOaQ", "review_id": "0H4Xrntbu_Q_cq3o44yQig", "text": "During the 2009 Arizona Restaurant Week in Phoenix I selected to dine at Capital Grille, and what an experience that was!! Both the service and food were excellent to say the least! I have a relatively strict diet due to food allergies/intolerances. Not only am I gluten-free, but also dairy-, egg-, and soy-free, but also preservative and meat free (except fish), so from the time I scheduled my reservation to my arrival and dining at the restaurant the service was impeccable! This fine dining restaurant definitely gets two thumbs up! Though there was no gluten-free pasta, brown rice, or quinoa, there were other wonderful options to still satisfy my strict dietary needs.\n\nCapital Grille is an excellent place to experience, not just for the food but also for the experience...it truly represents fine dining well!", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 4, "date": "2009-10-10", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "usQTOj7LQ9v0Fl98gRa3Iw", "review_id": "E0qLF_i4T2wo9cDFzN-uqQ", "text": "In a bit of an indifferent mood before ending up at TCG I did the drivers equivalent of pacing. Litterally driving into the parking lot of a few other well known restaurants and going \"no...not feeling it\", and driving out of the parking lot without stopping. I was intent on trying some place new. Honestly I don't know what made me park and come into TCG, and even then when I walked in I was about ready to turn around, I wasn't wanting so upscale but decided to just go in and grab a seat at the bar. \nMy indeciseiveness that night extended into trying to choose what to drink and what to eat. The bartender and the lady sitting next to me highly recommend the Stoli Doli, house infused pineapple vodka martini. Why not? What a great recommendation. Wonderfully simple, slightly sweet pineapple goodness in a martini glass. \nLooking over the bar menu, I then asked for the full menu. Wow the Wine list is IMPRESSIVE. The menu options matched the rich darkness in the restaurant. Sultry and romantic...I can see why there were so many couples here enjoying the ambiance. The service is as impressive as the wine list.\nI finally decided, but I question my own combination of what I chose. Obviously not that hungry, I choose the Wagyu beef carpaccio and a wedge salad( this is where I wonder what was I thinking). I would have much happier in the end had I just had the carpaccio. Not that it was bad....just so didn't do the restaurant justice. It's not ment to stand out on its own. But it satisfied something at the moment. The rich blue cheese dressing and bacon...unfortunately iceburg lettuce is never stellar even with the dressing.\nThe Wagyu carpaccio was beautifully plated. Lightly seared exterior and rare interior of thinnly sliced beef accompanied by a portion of lightly dressed arugula salad and parmagian cheese. The seared exterior had a seasoning that I am not sure that added to the dish. I appreciate carpaccio for its simplicity. However that was my only \"issue\" and it didn't keep me from enjoying the dish. The richness of the wagyu and the peppery arugula were perfect together. Including tip my vist was around $50.\nNext time I will go with a friend or 3 who are ready for a fine meal.", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 4, "date": "2010-09-05", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 2, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "2vVqrI3o2pGrpLXecbkQCw", "review_id": "IUr_drcz7b5v4KgrZFuTmw", "text": "Amazing birthday dinner for my boyfriend with our dearest friends.\nRobert Carson was our waiter and probably the best waiter I've ever had the pleasure to watch and benefit from!\nHe treated us like long lost friends. His long fingers and long hands expertly delivered our plates (and his fingers never touched to top of our plates...we look for that).\nHe took our photo with the fabulous desert plate before we devoured everything on it! Best deserts I've had in a long time (Coconut Cream Pie, Chocolate Cake and, my favorite, Cheesecake).\nBut besides the service and desert, let me praise the beef! All four of us ordered Filet Mignon (one Filet Oscar) and all of us thought it was a prime cut of meat! The au gratin potatoes (which I haven't eaten in years) was hot, cheesy and wonderful! Capital Grille ranks up there with Morton's in my book for sure! I'm so glad there's one in the L.A. area...I'll go again next time I have a reason to spend $$$$ on a meal!", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-09-07", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "DVqigFeLodiysUezvQRkGA", "review_id": "7YRYlRkR_DAkz1OhomERVg", "text": "AMAZING... let me start off with that. So I originally made reservations to Ruth's Chris for my boyfriend's birthday dinner but I saw the menu for Capital Grille and immediately changed my mind and I'm so glad I did. I made reservations on their website and mentioned it was my boyfriends birthday. When we got there, the host and manager both greeted us and were very professional, wishes my boyfriend a happy birthday. They let us sit at the bar for drinks before we sat down to dinner since the table wasn't ready yet. When we got to the table, there was a card signed by all the staff, happy birthday confetti that lined down the table it was wonderful. The atmosphere was very welcoming, it was dim and very elegant but not overly done which I liked. The bread they provided was warm and delicious. We ordered the calamari for appetizer and let me just say... if you love calamari, THIS IS IT RIGHT HERE!!! its perfectly seasoned, breaded and crispy, and its mixed with banana peppers and tomato which give it a nice kick and some jazz. LOVED IT LOVED IT LOVVVVVED IT! We then shared the porterhouse steak 28oz and it was delicious and perfectly cooked, a little colder than I would like it but at least they cooked it right. We also ordered the lobster mac and cheese and paramasean truffle fries as our sides. Way too much food for the both of us, we had to take half the steak, most of the mac and cheese and fries home but they were all delicious. The service was amazing, our server was on point and very good, she knew the menu really well and explained everything to us. The overall experience was a 10. After our meal, the server came out with a slice of chocolate mousse cake with a lit candle for my boyfriend and it was on the house! They are so generous. I'm a food junkie and I love food and this is by far my favorite, quality, restaurant.", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-09-30", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 2, "useful": 3, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "VqSCQCva71Q-ZVcMsYfQuw", "review_id": "M7SSAYgSTGbk7-t9Ir70Lw", "text": "We had a 60+ person luncheon event here and I'd say the service and food were marginal. For example, I made the mistake of ordering my salad with dressing on the side. This caused 59 people to be served and one to sit and wait at least 15 minutes for lettuce and tomato assembly. These guys may be fine for dinner, but I'd never do another group event. They were a pain in the butt to deal with.", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 2, "date": "2011-10-10", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "5qHu6jYL0cdtbOa3KrkjMQ", "review_id": "-LFPL-RvkYyj9OQ5uxNgHg", "text": "A big THANK YOU to Capital Grille, Ann (the event coordinator) and the servers who helped us with my brother's dinner rehearsal. We had 34 guests in the Biltmore Room. The food was amazing and I can honestly say, I have dealt with many vendors and this event was seamless. They went above and beyond to make our night special. I feel horrible that I forgot the head server's name, but he was THE BEST. Thank you! I highly recommend this venue if anyone is looking to host a private event. THANK YOU ANN AND CAPITAL GRILLE!", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-11-14", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 4, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "y0kjuHVdGQhLd-bqQ0gZnA", "review_id": "IZ2MIjYzyvYadkftFX3fgQ", "text": "Oh my goodness!!! This place is great!! Went here last Saturday with a group of four and things couldn't have been better. From the time we stepped into the restaurant to the time we stepped out we were treated like royalty. Excellent, attentive service. Two of us were even given a personal tour of the restaurant by the general manager. Food items ordered included: french onion soup, spinach salad, chopped salad, Delmonico steak, porterhouse steak, Filet Mignon, mashed potatoes, scalloped potatoes, green beans, chilled seared sushi grade tuna, coconut cream pie. We also had several bottles of wine the best of which was named \"The Boxer.\" The bread basket they provide is also great. All food items prepared correctly for everyone the first time. The restaurant does have the feel of a gentleman's club and is expensive. Give this Capital Grille location a try for your next special evening out.", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-11-15", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "Tb31E32TYfJmSH5WXPm8KA", "review_id": "_al-HURP67d-8Yg1S_h18g", "text": "Celebrated my husband's 30th birthday here.\n\nWalked in and was promptly seated. There was a birthday card signed by the staff for my husband waiting on the table. Hostess also took a picture at the booth and put it in a frame for us to take home. \n\nFood was delicious. Had the wagyu beef carpaccio, shrimp cocktail, lobster mac and cheese. However, I was a bit disappointed in my main dish, the rib eye. It did not seem seasoned very well and didnt have much flavor. My husband had a porterhouse and had to ask for extra balsamic drizzle to give it some punch.\n\nOther than that, we had a great time. The service was great and a majority of the meal was perfect!", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 4, "date": "2011-11-23", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "OaqnrdmDVX5cwc6OwZg_cw", "review_id": "UK3TdNragLiulyt-U-wUjw", "text": "My second fav steak house!!", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 5, "date": "2012-09-16", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 2, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "NrMU4Qs8qqIZ536buLYQ8w", "review_id": "VtRnLYCwEI7pyMLzC0MCZA", "text": "Conclusion: Top notch, great service and great food.\n\nThe breakdown: I would say a good dining experience is the sum of the food, the environment, and the service.\n\nSo...the lady and I decided on a whim that the Capital Grille would be the AZ Restaurant pick of the evening. We went after late evening at work...my environment is pretty casual, so I was in t-shirt and shorts. Even on a Tu night it seemed the general atmosphere was business casual. We were greeted and seated as soon as we came in and appeared no judgments were made. We then waited. ....and waited.....and waited. I was beginning to wonder if they didn't like my attire or something. We noticed it seemed there was a huddle between the wait staff wondering who would take our table. Still no one. I got up to use the rest room and when I got back my lady said they were bringing out some calamari on the house for our wait. Sweet! I generally don't care one anyone the other about calamari...but theirs was really good. A bit of. A spice, a little kick...but quite tasty. The waiter was extremely apologetic about our wait and was on top of everything afterwards. I got the bone in sirloin, lady the filet. Both were very tasty and cooked to our liking. The mashed potatoes were delicious...creamy and buttery tasting. Green beans tasty and crisp. The espresso chocolate cake dessert...oh my was it rich. A little chocolate sauce or more raspberry sauce would have been a welcome addition to the dollop of whip cream and raspberries but it was still tasty.. \n\nBut the final action that really put the experience over the top was when the bill was supposed to come and instead the manager said dinner was on them. They did not want to leave us with a bad experience (esp. considering it was our first time there.). I tried telling him this was unnecessary as they already more than made up for many issues. They insisted...so the waiter ended up with a pretty good tip out of it. That was all class though and made me feel quite good about our dining choice. The way they handled things and the food quality even prior to that would have gotten them at least 4 stars. But the fact they have proven themselves a class act...that puts them over the top. We will be back.", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 5, "date": "2012-09-19", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "nTX3rtfh4zMJ_fhZbBuIow", "review_id": "1Y1jNRBB944NPfcfbXfE5g", "text": "My family visited for my son's 30th birthday. The table was decorated and a card signed by all the employees addressed to my son was at his spot. The food was perfect from the lobster bisque to the trio of ice cream. It's a favorite place of ours.", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 5, "date": "2012-09-25", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "SQ_cKuWidl6EN9CtedILGg", "review_id": "QzhljiO9jn9VTId4XTdr0Q", "text": "Great steaks...good desserts even better service!", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 4, "date": "2012-10-03", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "kk05snSafuIFK0lsxoMNzA", "review_id": "PDK6I4S2-Zu8ZFYY8ojB_Q", "text": "Dined here again last evening. Food was exceptional in a very comfortable yet upscale setting.", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 5, "date": "2012-10-13", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "xqK8s3pxGaJqphvSzxxVog", "review_id": "up0tnqMfhtp4RfxRfLTa2g", "text": "Always fantastic food always fantastic service. \nTravis is a Fantastic Chef, and Brian and Bo are fantastic managers who always make you feel like your the most important people in the place. \nThis is my favorite restaurant.", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 5, "date": "2012-10-20", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "gcyEUr4DXcbjnGRAWFtfAQ", "review_id": "lodIL8OYyEciszap3vw1Sg", "text": "I wanted to get a killer steak and we found our way to The Capital Grille. I am usually a bit gun shy with these high-end restaurants because they often times don't live up to the hype. This was NOT teh case with The Capital Grille! We made a reservation and were seated promptly. Our server was super personable and not snotty in the least bit, as I've experienced in the past with some of the high-end steakhouses. We were promptly sat and presented with menus and a drink menu. They had an extensive wine by the glass list and bottle list. WE started with the calimari with spicy peppers and pimento. Great dish, perfectly cooked fried calimari tossed with spicy peppers and garlic butter. i went with the house special, Kona crusted steak (I switched the traditional sirloin for Delmonico) with shallot butter. Awesome, Awesome, Awesome! We also ordered the cream corn with bacon (most of the veggies, you can get in half orders and that's PLENTY for two people). The wife just had a cup of chowder and a great spinach salad with bacon, onions and bacon vinaigrette. All in all, great meal and awesome service. I can't wait to go back!", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 5, "date": "2012-10-29", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "YK2rodQfBU2Oe9H6jmlTFg", "review_id": "GE-kL5Xk1gemhrtK3kkyGA", "text": "The capital grille never fails! The lobster and crab stuffed shrimp is absolutely amazing and the parmesan truffle fries are to die for! The service is always top notch and they are on top of refills. The valet out front is awesome and of course the overall atmosphere is great.", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 4, "date": "2012-11-04", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "D6MBY597pQEjrzURI3pWQQ", "review_id": "kte4MkiZ7VDf0TJpPLrEXQ", "text": "We went for our anniversary and the service started out as impeccable. There were roses on our table with a nice Happy Anniversary card. We were offered a complimentary champagne toast. So far we were very impressed.\n\nWe were offered fresh bread which was yummy and ordered a salad to split. The salad was okay, but not fantastic. My husband had ordered the Kona Sirloin and I had ordered the Filet MIgnon. Up to the main course, the service had been quick and we expected the same from the steaks. We waited and waited and waited.\n\nFinally the steaks arrived and neither of us were impressed. I had ordered Medium Rare Plus because I like it nice and pink, but not red. It was too rare for my liking and the outside was more charred than I care for. My husband's sirloin was too rare and he liked my filet more. The sides we ordered were very good. I had the creamed corn which was wonderful. My husband really enjoyed his mashed potatoes.\n\nThey offered us dessert. We chose peach sorbet which was yummy. Then we waited again for our bill. \n\nOverall, it was a decent meal and while the service started off outstanding, it declined as the meal progressed. Honestly, I have had better steaks elsewhere.", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 3, "date": "2013-09-08", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "MBhvsi8dJTHuaKn4v98XRw", "review_id": "m3JWMtU5c-xCy3-QXyy6Dg", "text": "There are few must haves on the menu, but don't save room for dessert, take a few desserts to go for later at home or save them for breakfast. \n\nAs could be expected, the filet mignon is amazing and always prepared as ordered. One special note is to look for the dark brown bread containing sweet white raisins in the free bread basket. That bread is something to seek out by itself.\n\nOne incredible appetizer is the prosciutto wrapped mozzarella. Every bite leaves you wanting one more.\n\nAnd take home some dessert. You will be happy you did.", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 4, "date": "2013-09-12", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "XK1KQylpiv89x5Fa3qAIjg", "review_id": "k8ilOuAkAiFYU5TC8xRIgg", "text": "Brian and Jeannie are the best bartenders! We came in on a Thursday night and were just planning on drinks, but were drawn in by the incredibly decadent menu. We ordered the lobster mac and cheese, (which is not for the faint of heart) and also the prosciutto wrapped mozzarella with heirloom tomatoes. The couple next to us ordered burgers and a wedge salad that I definitely can't wait to come back and try. My only complaint is that they needed to stock up on Tito's vodka for their martinis.", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 5, "date": "2013-11-07", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "FVSJR7CxGy3RTS53bLDUaA", "review_id": "QbjCjJ2GcYDT4hA8OsUNbA", "text": "The Kona Steak was the best. Accompanied by perfectly cooked green beans and mouth watering, I can't stopping eating, mashed potatoes.\n\nThe interior decor is classic, warm and welcoming. This is the place to come for dinner or simply cocktails or the \"to die for\" flour less chocolate cake.", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 5, "date": "2013-11-14", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "m-TvO61NE1UNHqMvB3jGpg", "review_id": "268_6W329p4EsC7UmCqxqA", "text": "Amazing experience! Great Great service! Highly recommend! Amazing martini service/pour. Bountiful wine pours with their samplings. Food was to die for. If you want service, decor, and food, I would highly recommend.", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 5, "date": "2013-11-23", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "_cEgTT24yltbKbmgbrzRrA", "review_id": "DUERJR48eeS4REL9th9dig", "text": "We went on Labor Day: it was one of few steakhouses opened and my father in law suggested it since he had been to one on the east coast.\n\nService was fantastic, our server John said he was the newbie at the restaurant but clearly he was not new to servicing.\n\nI had a very good dirty martini but next time I'll get it a little dirtier. My Fil had Kiltlifter beer and when there was only 1 left they asked him if they should keep it cold for him (he said yes!). That is great service.\n\nAppetizers: Oysters on the 1/2 shelf...delicious. And perfectly crispy Pan Fried Calamari...also delicious.\n\nWe all had the 22 oz Delmonico bone-in Ribeye., medium rare, closer to rare than medium and they were perfectly cooked! Also ordered 2 sides: the lobster mac & cheese...super cheesy with large pieces of lobster. And fresh creamed spinach in a b\u00e9chamel sauce. If that wasn't enough our waiter gave us mashed potatoes because as he said \" you have to try these\". \n\nWe are still full from the experience but will be back!", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-09-25", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "pfDI6eYkVRSYezl4WAI2Lw", "review_id": "8-vm5Y6U-x1siBRu-wwjZw", "text": "My husband surprised me with dinner here for our 20th wedding anniversary. It was a perfect evening. We were warmly greeted and seated upon arrival. We had a table with red hearts and a nice anniversary card from Capital Grille. Our server, Ryan David, was exceptional. I know he had other tables but we felt like he was there just for us. The food was delicious. The shrimp cocktail was great and you must try the calamari. Yum! The steaks were juicy and flavorful. The lobster mac and cheese was decadent. I could eat it every day and still want more. We had a wine tasting special at our table. It was fun to see if we could guess what kind each was. The whites were easier than the reds. We had a complimentary dessert duo; cheesecake and something rich & chocolate. The cheesecake was my favorite. I love food and am not easily impressed but I was impressed with my meal. From beginning to end we thoroughly enjoyed every moment. Don Goodwin, the manager, came by our table to see if we were pleased with everything. We were. It was our first visit but it will not be our last. Please dine here at least once. You will be glad you did.", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-09-29", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "mO58fgOLFcnkJXa-svW4Iw", "review_id": "KvvIktuAvo2_7Hk_DmKHFg", "text": "We had a fabulous anniversary dinner at The Capital Grille. Everyone was so amazing in helping us enjoy our special day. We were seated at a secluded booth with an anniversary card and heart confetti on the table. \n\nWe started with the signature calamari, always a favorite. My husband enjoyed the classic Caesar salad with shaved Parmesan and crunchy croutons while I enjoyed the spinach salad with large pieces of bacon, feta, mushrooms and purple onions. At Robbie, our waiters recommendation, I ordered the special, a 16 ounce bone in filet. I have never seen this on a menu before. WOW! It was superb. We finished the evening with a cappuccino and an anniversary dessert plate. We recommend The Capital Grille for any special occasion. We will be back again soon.", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-10-05", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "USN7sbfqxbwi1hYnw0QFhQ", "review_id": "e2PIY8j0fccVIV48WXhc5A", "text": "My husband and i spent his birthday Tuesday night with Ricky. The service and suggestions were amazing-we loved the wine and splitting the delmonico with two different preparations. Outstanding service, enthusiasm and a great experience with Ricky.", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-11-07", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "h-WzC1CeV0VJ-MN6Hnhvmw", "review_id": "WYtIR4W2Q0RAK7FW_hDXhA", "text": "Amazing dinner and service! Filet was cooked perfectly. If you are celebrating a special night and a meat eater - Go there you won't be disappointed.", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-11-08", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "QghGTkP4tpO97PP75B2r8g", "review_id": "umDQ-bIVf4JHHE1MkhwKWA", "text": "I'm a vegetarian and was invited to a party at this restaurant. The veg. pasta was amazing and the appetizers and desserts were amazing!!! I can only imagine what the meat tasted like but everyone loved it.", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-11-22", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "gkJpmgzKQtS-n0z8zdVtzw", "review_id": "GUo_VJjgrwFFf9JfWxhMqw", "text": "Unbelievable Thanksgiving. \n\nThis is the way to celebrate Thanksgiving -- Capital Grille style. Starting with the best Mojitos in PHX served up by Joe (who hails from FL). The staff's usual attention to detail that exemplifies Capital Grille -- Stephanie led that parade. Next was the calamari appetizer followed with traditional turkey dinner, and lobster mac and cheese. My spouse had non-traditional bone in filet steak Oscar with twice baked potato. \n\nI think we started a new tradition for Thanksgiving -- skip the work and be thankful for The Capital Grille", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-11-27", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "jumTj6lArVdUJ9iN3gk73w", "review_id": "FQ7UvZUGSz7fOdIVxBO_TA", "text": "Gorgonzola Filet was phenomenal & my Dad enjoyed his turkey dinner last night! Terry was our server and he was great! Definitely asking for him next time we go!!", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-11-28", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "hebXGQk5ggZSwTlUoEcTWQ", "review_id": "-RBfyk9nx67YQif4Wy64cA", "text": "A chain should always be a well oiled machine and this spot sure is! Attentive staff that's knowledgable and recommends great options. Wine lost should be called wine lost. An iPad because there are about 529406373 wines.. I get it having variety helps but dang...", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-09-09", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "IBHIB59epUFRXPOhwN_LqA", "review_id": "3ZnaAqj4A4WVO25RlWmf4w", "text": "The food was fantastic and the service was excellent. I had the dry aged sirloin with steak frites and the steak was perfect. We were all asking ourselves when we last had anything so good. The fries were crispy and thin and perfectly salted. The dressing on the mixed green salad was bland but let's face it, you go there for the steak not the salad. I certainly can't afford to be a regular here but wonderful treat to enjoy from time to time!", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-09-09", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "U2Ez3lMr3CHuNl8NFww4QA", "review_id": "Wm5SUD8zIVAJQFnGmgINGw", "text": "Who knew that Capital Grille has amazing lunch specials!? I went to Capital Grille today for lunch and was shocked at their affordable lunch prices. For $18, you can choose your choice of soup or salad and an entree! {And of course their amazing bread basket}. Their entree options include; Dry Aged Sirloin Steak Frites with Red Eye Jus, Maine Lobster Roll w/Salt & Vinegar Chips and Jumbo Shrimp with Israeli Couscous & White Wine Mushroom Broth, to name a few. I ordered the \"Cobb\" Salad & oh my goodness, it was seriously fabulous. The mustard dressing was so light and perfect. The steak was cooked to perfection, you could literally cut it with a fork. I will most definitely be back soon for this fabulous salad! It was worth every penny.", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-09-15", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 2, "useful": 2, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "rjsx6_pSqwl0zuiwa_tI2g", "review_id": "tOlAldnrCjY7TP6ETsVGUQ", "text": "I've been to The Capital Grille on multiple occasions. I keep coming back because I swear it keeps getting better each time. The food, the service, the venue. Always outstanding! I have never found a single thing that wasn't perfection. (Oh, wait! Yes, I have . . . every single time I have been here, I have eaten too much! Enjoyed it too much! Had too much fun with my dining companions!) \n\nThe Capital Grille is definitely on / or near the top of my list of great places to eat in the Valley of the Sun! And, if you've ever spent any time in the greater Phoenix area, you know that there are endless great restaurants all over the Valley! The Capital Grille is definitely one of them!", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-10-05", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "XbxgnxXUm7-0VlZHMVyLKg", "review_id": "gfTiooHrp5XHswp3pd3P1A", "text": "Let me start saying that many friends were talking on how amazing the steaks were; My husband and I decided to make a reservation to celebrate our anniversary and to begin with, they only had available for dinner almost at 10pm... To tell you the truth super late for my liking, then we arrived a bit earlier to find the restaurant nearly empty! I was really shocked at that point.\n\nThe nightmare really starts, the restaurant had a vibe that everyone was in a rush to take us out quickly, I ordered a steak and it took 3 glasses of wine for it to arrive..... And the steak was completely absolutely and irrevocably \"BLAND\"!!! I was so shocked that I tried to eat a bit and hurry up to get out of there, imagine if I had complained, another hour of awkwardness feeling from the staff....\n\nThen my husband trying to make me feel a bit less angry and dissatisfied, ordered dessert and because it was so late they almost had no choices for us to pick, my husband ordered for me \"Neapolitan gourmet\" ice cream sitting on top of a \"delicious\" chocolate chip cookie, it looked like my niece had bought some cookies at the supermarket and placed it on 3 little cups, horrendous plating!\n\nI really had it, we paid and starting running out! It was the most unpleasant experience I had in a \"high end\" steakhouse!!! Will think twice on coming back...", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 1, "date": "2015-10-11", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "ARP1hjIwpYOGdQAg7iEBqA", "review_id": "Uf1dux59nli6TREDOCmuKg", "text": "If you're looking for a great burger in a great ambiance, look no further Capital Grille is your place! Centrally located in the heart of the city in the Biltmore, this burger joint is unlike any other.\n \nOnce you step foot into Capital Grill you already know that you are in beautiful decorated, and elegant establishment. The customer service is great starting with the greeter at the door, and the attentive waiters/waitresses staff. I constantly had my glass filled, as well as had a great breakdown of the beef (where it is from, what makes it so great, etc.) Additionally, the wines offered are smooth and vary in style but can be sampled.\n \nThe wine/burger combo is definitely a great promotion when available. Capital Grille is definitely great for a date night out, business meeting, or pretty much just for a great burger! Definitely one of the best burgers I have had to date.", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-10-20", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 5, "useful": 8, "cool": 8}, "user_id": "gx3ZRjh43OOuavKl_rXvrA", "review_id": "DK0-r_8RWiRpmiCyDrO6nA", "text": "Review on The Capital Grille bar:\n\nThe bartenders here know how to make mean drinks, but it's the Stoli Doli that is an absolute must! They even showcase the pineapple slices soaking in vodka right on the counter, it's beautiful as it is refreshingly, delicious! They serve food at the bar, but my favorite appetizer thus far is the Pan-fried Calamari it's the perfect savory, spicy, fried treat to pair with a cool chilled drink!\n\nThe service is always great, bartenders are easy to talk to and never pushy. The ambience of the bar is like that of the restaurant, it's dark and laid back. An absolutely great way to spend an evening or for a quick drink.", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-10-22", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "R2Jr4FiahEETyaB4J_0atQ", "review_id": "mrCblkMGUp_0fAP4Ffni2A", "text": "Love Capital Grille and never had a problem there in the past but last night had the waiter from hell. Didn't know what Hendricks gin was. When we ordered wanted our steak pink and it came out well done. He kept saying medium well and I said NO! \nOrdered a second round of drinks and he forgot to bring them to the table. \nThis is not the CG I've been going to for years. Chalk it off to a bad experience but hope they fired the waiter.\nFor these prices expected a lot better experience.", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 2, "date": "2015-11-04", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "WrP60_4xzolbZ4J0jteLJA", "review_id": "jGjyg3uj_qhKQzmUR4Fxig", "text": "Exhausted from Black Friday shopping, I needed a meat fix. Decided on lunch at a The Capital Grill Biltmore and was blown away. I had dined there a couple of times in the past but it was just special this time.\n\nOur server Shay was outstanding. She introduced herself and immediately I knew she was going to be great. Very friendly and knowledgeable about the menu. Part of what made her so great was that she shared her passion for food and cooking. Anyone can be a good server, but it takes someone like Shay with her passion to be a great server, especially in a high end restaurant. \n\nMoving on to the food....\nShay recommended the lunch size filet with prawn scampi. Served with a choice of side, I picked the mashed potatoes. \n\nThis meal was just perfect in every way. A nice size filet and four large prawns on top. There aren't words to describe how good the scampi sauce was...garlic, butter and actually a little spicy. The mashed potatoes could not have been better, seasoned just right and made with butter and cream. I am excited just writing about it and I can't wait to go back!\n\nEveryone in my party had the same thing and we all agreed how great this meal was. \n\nSo...Want a recommendation? Try the fillet and prawn scampi next time you are at The Capital Grill. They do it for lunch and dinner with a larger filet served for the dinner. \n\nEnjoy!", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-11-29", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "fsLjBPIWeF3rpWa6lx_mSg", "review_id": "2bN3SDSXQ5zLxtyt70xusg", "text": "Everything about the Capital Grille was fantastic. Except the food.\n\nThe ambiance, the service, the decor, the fine little touches that go along with a high-end restaurant were all exactly what you would expect from the CG, but unfortunately, the food just didn't live up to expectations. I went for lunch and was looking forward to something as spectacular as the rest of the experience, and was horribly disappointed. The clam chowder was average at best, and definitely wasn't anywhere near as good as some I've had at bar/restaurants on the pier in San Fran or Seattle. And although I can't remember the name of the sliced steak dish with the shoestring fries on top, that's a pretty accurate description of the dish itself. The steak itself was horrible, as it had a completely inedible piece running through the center of the entire steak. I ate around it, but seriously, this is not what I expect from a place like the CG. It completely ruined the rest of the experience, and it's doubtful I'll ever go back for another lunch. \n\nYou never get a second chance to make a first impression. Sorry, CG, but it wasn't a good one.", "business_id": "QdbZyl-LWFS54u93Vjd5SA", "stars": 3, "date": "2015-11-30", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "Z1O3I3roNTFp33p7aEaDzg", "review_id": "LrFTLy96_AsF98WcikzVVA", "text": "oh how i wished i check yelp before taking our concierge's advice about eating here. the food was not good and was VERY pricey, i wish i went to the capital grille if i knew we were going to drop this much money, at least there i would have gotten a great steak and been satisfied.", "business_id": "OypZxwm-jS9QfUwgBmzeyw", "stars": 2, "date": "2008-09-20", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 3, "useful": 4, "cool": 4}, "user_id": "Vznre5N5gG-wLK9Fpv1gHw", "review_id": "fB4-ElOmSszaaPwzFbhllg", "text": "Ruby Red Crab Legs ....YUM! (There is a big $$ though for this Yumminess!....$70). We started our meal with the N'awlins Shrimp appetizer. Cajun spices but with \"little itty bitty\" shrimp. It was just OK. We actually ate at the bar. The bartender, Brian, was very attentive. Of course he was, we were the only two people in the bar for two hours on a Saturday night. The bar is good size so that has to be a bad sign for Steamers. Can you imagine what their rent could be in The Biltmore on 24th St. and Camelback??\n\nWhen I read Brad H.'s review of Steamer's, I was touched by his story of the \"Lovely lady who is now his wife\" who he proposed to at Steamer's. Brad, do you have a twin brother???? What a nice guy you are!", "business_id": "OypZxwm-jS9QfUwgBmzeyw", "stars": 2, "date": "2008-09-23", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 2, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "0-TxcfXJmLuK4sbVhCF-MQ", "review_id": "xGGBrOhk0RQ7Y-zQ2SsCug", "text": "Steamers seems to be a Phoenix/Scottsdale staple for good seafood. The food wasn't bad, it wasn't THAT great either, though. The wine list is sufficient and the service adequate. The menu has some good combination dishes and a mix of seafood staples and chef creations. I had the seabass, which was tasty and fresh, but nothing memorable for me. Atmosphere wise, the booths are nice and probably the only place I would want to sit in the place, but I didn't really get that \"contemporary and cosmopolitan\" vibe at all. The best part about Steamers may, in fact, be its perfect location centered right in Biltmore Fashion Park.", "business_id": "OypZxwm-jS9QfUwgBmzeyw", "stars": 3, "date": "2008-11-09", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 2, "cool": 2}, "user_id": "b9XdpPlzZCVimhNb0z8CNA", "review_id": "lOeeTsIN2g1uCUOReDv-KA", "text": "My wife took me to Steamers for my birthday this summer. We were both let down that we weren't going to be able to take our annual vacation to Maine to see her Dad and eat lots of yummy fresh seafood. We love lobster bisque, lobster rolls, baked stuffed lobster, and just about lobster anything. Oh yeah, and baked stuffed shrimp too.\n\nSo this was supposed to be our \"mini-getaway\" since we were homebound for the summer. We were both a little let down to be honest. She chose Steamers because their online menu said they had lobster bisque. Well, we got to the restaurant and they didn't have lobster bisque. I had the special, swordfish au poivre, and it was good, but very rich, and wasn't feeling very well a few hours later. The wine list wasn't as extensive and one would expect for a nice seafood restaurant in Phoenix. I have to say that in general, the food wasn't bad, but it wasn't anything special, but it was very expensive. We agreed that next time we wanted a good bowl of bisque we'd go next door to the Capital Grille", "business_id": "OypZxwm-jS9QfUwgBmzeyw", "stars": 2, "date": "2009-09-03", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "uiur8sopp0iYRORmtj9cfw", "review_id": "a-OrPBxErgz37HwPSaSDdQ", "text": "I dined here recently with my girlfriend for AZ restaurant week. We had a specially memorable evening, as everything was perfect, or just near. The wines we chose in the wine flights were particularly palatable, as was the food (though they lost points when the server had no idea about a couple of wines we asked about). The appetizers were nice little meals on their own - she had the lobster in lettuce cups, I the Ahi tuna Tartar stack, which was nice, sans the tortilla chips instead of...toast points, maybe? I had the cioppino for entree, which, for a seafood lover like me, was just sheer bliss. My date had the tilapia, which we both thought was a tad on the \"swampy\" side, though it was still edible enough. We finished with key lime pie for her, and the chocolate s'more souffle pour moi, which we both gobbled with the abandon only dedicated gourmands can know. All in all, a wonderful evening. Our dinner came to close to $90, but I felt it was worth it. \n\nOne of the nits we had was the decor, once the lights started to come up at the end of the night. Steamers, you need new chairs and tables. We thought they looked like they belonged at Golden Corral, not in an otherwise opulently decorated space with old world ambience. Luckily, we reserved a booth.", "business_id": "OypZxwm-jS9QfUwgBmzeyw", "stars": 4, "date": "2009-09-28", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "rLtl8ZkDX5vH5nAx9C3q5Q", "review_id": "vMTqlPenmRgf-AOYs2alVg", "text": "For some reason I have never had a \"full\" meal in the dining area the 2 times I have been here. Instead, my wife and I have chosen to sit in the bar area because it is normally later in the evening when we go and we just want something quick and casual. We normally just order a few things to share and here are some of our favs and un-favs:\n\n* The Steamers Clam Chowder - it is AWESOME! They put both New England and Manhattan chowder in the same bowl. Not mixed together though...on separate sides.\n\n* The Steamers Wedge - EXCELLENT and HUGE.\n\n* Rocky Point Shrimp Cocktail - I honestly don't think it is very good. I think it lacks flavor and kick. I would just stick to a regular shrimp cocktail in the future.\n\nThe service is always excellent as they are very fast and friendly. The prices are on the high side but that's what you get for wanting decent seafood in the Biltmore area.\n\nAlthough I am always there way after happy hour has ended; the specials look awesome. If I am ever in the area around happy hour time then I will definitely make a visit.", "business_id": "OypZxwm-jS9QfUwgBmzeyw", "stars": 4, "date": "2009-11-11", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "DcQERx2GW3CB6cfP_4xblw", "review_id": "gRCte6_rFEymEZ2koGFUuQ", "text": "I really want this place to be good. I love seafood and it's only 2 or 3 blocks from where I live. I've been twice now, and both times it's just been... meh. It's not bad, but I have no intention of going back. The plates seem expensive for a joint like this. The chips were too thick. The salsa wasn't that great. And most importantly my fillets haven't been very delicious. Maybe their shellfish and meats are different, but the fish fillets just aren't worth it.\n\nThe staff is friendly enough, and the service is quick enough, but I don't think I'll be swinging by here again.", "business_id": "7SoGPn8dvce7A1aHdBOGLA", "stars": 2, "date": "2010-09-24", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "Qw9bEL0ylJ2UVvQpCxFv0Q", "review_id": "YaXNVpPZOSv7hGSxGpqAYg", "text": "I know it looks like a hole in the wall, but the food is out of this WORLD. I was introduced to this place by some co-workers who are very familiar with what good REAL Mexican food is. This is it, we have been going back religiously since... The mocajete (i think), is this bowl of seafood tomato sauce, spices and cheese that is made and served in a lava rock bowl, it is still boiling when it makes it to the table. Not only is it HOT but it is also SPIIIIIIIIICY! Delicious....", "business_id": "7SoGPn8dvce7A1aHdBOGLA", "stars": 5, "date": "2010-10-05", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "JnLlnfEfbw9c3fHVrkou-Q", "review_id": "LGS9-P_6XMLpOuQ60LpVtw", "text": "Good hole-in-the-wall place. Was recommended by some new friends I met in Arizona. They knew the owner and was highly-recommended. We went for dinner on a Monday night so it wasn't packed at all. Service was good, a tad slow, but we weren't in a rush.\n\nFood: was good. ordered a shrimp cerviche, fresh and tasty. 7 Mares, a flavorful and seafood meaty soup. To quench the thirst, I tried the Micheladas, a bloody mary type drink mixed with beer, a spicy treat. \n\nFrom the look of the local feel, this place seems like it'll be a great happy hour location to. Hope to find out one day when I visit AZ again.", "business_id": "7SoGPn8dvce7A1aHdBOGLA", "stars": 4, "date": "2010-11-26", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "oXBahXJCXUEATm5IVexw8A", "review_id": "r4_MbKGUYCf1wjYCp-zr0w", "text": "Oh. My. Damn! I effing love this place! I've been a lot and have always had great food and good service. The oysters are a must have app, with a little squeeze of lime and a dash of salt...my mouth is watering now! The little woman and I both usually get one of their cocktails (shrimp, octopus, squid, snail) served with chips and some avocado. The shrimp ceviche is another favorite, nice and limey. The last few times, however, my gal ordered fish. I believe it was cooked in garlic and butter and came with rice and beans and it was phenomenal! Sometimes they have live mariachi music, which just adds to the greatness!", "business_id": "7SoGPn8dvce7A1aHdBOGLA", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-11-05", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 2, "useful": 5, "cool": 3}, "user_id": "k4-6lakq7t3kCgbvPxcuvg", "review_id": "oAze4AadvkaqyTxWC_8zJQ", "text": "Alright...\n\n\nCame here this weekend with my husband and 1 year old daughter. We parked and I immediately noticed a jagged and shattered beer bottle in the parking lot in front of the door right by my new car tire. (Nice touch...)\n\nThe inside of the restaurant is clean, a little crowded, but fine otherwise.\n\nOur waitress was very sweet and helpful. The menu was a dizzying selection of Mexican seafood that was almost overwhelming. She brought us some chips and salsa, they were tasty, but the chips would have been even more delicious if they been served warm. I liked the salsa, it was a brownish, low heat salsa that I've never had before. It was pleasant.\n\nI ordered the shrimp chevice tostada and since he's allergic to shellfish (the poor bastard) the husband had the cheese enchiladas. We also ordered a side of rice for the baby. \n\nMy tostadas were okay, but they were store bought tostadas (because deep frying a fresh corn tortilla for each new diner is too much work?) and the shrimp chevice was way too limey (the overwhelming flavor) and not nearly spicy enough. I would have preferred a few thinly sliced jalapenos and maybe some more cilantro in the mixture.\n\nThe red sauce on my husband's enchiladas looked watery and artificial and just like canned tomato sauce. It didn't look very authentic, or good, BUT he swore it tasted okay. (His tummy was also feeling a tad funny the rest of the day, but that could have been from almost anything else too.)\n\nThe baby's rice was nice. It was served with peas, carrots, green beans and corn and it tasted quite good. Also, the waitress served the baby first and gave her a plastic spoon which was thoughtful. I suspect the waitress is also a mommy and that's why she got the baby's food out first and knew to give her a plastic spoon... ;)\n\n\nOur bill for 2 iced teas, 2 shrimp chevice tostadas, cheese enchiladas and a side of rice was about $23.00. Not too bad, I just wish the food was a tad more zippy and the tostada had been freshly made.", "business_id": "7SoGPn8dvce7A1aHdBOGLA", "stars": 3, "date": "2012-10-01", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "MyrJUOkgryYuN_uKKHm93A", "review_id": "IHjPSKwERRW7pyw0xxq7aA", "text": "My coworker brought me here for lunch. I had the shrimp and fish ceviche on a tostada shell. It was ok i wasnt blown away like i thought. I may have to try a diffrent dish on the menu to see this place stacks up. This place isn't cheap as you can see on the menu.", "business_id": "7SoGPn8dvce7A1aHdBOGLA", "stars": 3, "date": "2014-11-17", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "0hzKZOkHoGD1lTqgL-8NLQ", "review_id": "bNPgdq3u6HYQs9B5FNj7PA", "text": "I LOVE their shrimp ceviche! Sometimes it tastes different though depending on the cook. I always get the one with the octopus. Their salsa is on point and their drinks are refreshing. Love the little grupos that play in here too. At least at this Mariscos you don't get frisked. That's a plus!", "business_id": "7SoGPn8dvce7A1aHdBOGLA", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-10-23", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 10, "useful": 11, "cool": 11}, "user_id": "sEWeeq41k4ohBz4jS_iGRw", "review_id": "c94NtbOBn1B_0is9afYlCw", "text": "Um, hello, this place has been open for over 60 years. On that fact alone they receive 5 stars from me.\n\nDo they have some magic type of fryers that no one else in the world has? I think so because I honestly couldn't tell my meal was fried at all. \n\nI had the fish, shrimp, and chips combo and every item was crispy, light, and as ungreasy as fried food can get. \n\nThe interior is old and outdated for sure and it's totally in the \"hood\" but who cares. Darn good fish and chips IMHO. \n\n---PS, they have one of those pump thingies of ranch on their condiment bar so even if you don't like your meal just cover it in good old American ranch dressing. Ranch makes everything better!", "business_id": "YxMnfznT3eYya0YV37tE8w", "stars": 5, "date": "2008-11-20", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "bIlYtJE3y0iWJLdWyN9p9g", "review_id": "Bddwi-RE2v2pD9eGNOUtsQ", "text": "Had the 2 pc. fish & chips. Fish was very fresh. Batter was good and crunchy. Fries we ok because they were fresh, but underwhelming. The cole slaw was pretty much like what you buy at the deli counter. My friend had the fish and chicken tenders. Skip the chicken. Overall I was expecting a bit more from most of the reviews.", "business_id": "YxMnfznT3eYya0YV37tE8w", "stars": 2, "date": "2009-10-24", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "X-8BRuJUYm3Y-bFJu2V-Xg", "review_id": "MWqUREGYbn-TNnelNuMFmQ", "text": "I have come here before several concerts at the Celebrity Theatre. I can always give most restaurants a second chance or sometimes a third. But this place is just awful. Service is sub par. The cocktail sauce is way too spicy and watery. Fried zucchini and mushrooms are alright, but nothing to terribly special. Hushpuppies are good I will give them that. the fish and shrimp are overpriced and way too heavily breaded. and my brother in laws baked fish smelled just god awful. won't be wasting my time or money at this dive again.", "business_id": "YxMnfznT3eYya0YV37tE8w", "stars": 2, "date": "2010-09-26", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "DghMl81bONCh5ELnrgn4Fw", "review_id": "AVJH4tb9Siv4N8ZS3r-3Yw", "text": "Love their fried fish with fries and the endless supply of ranch. Oh sooo good! The price is right, the service is ok. There's room for improvement. Call in your orders during rush hours.", "business_id": "YxMnfznT3eYya0YV37tE8w", "stars": 4, "date": "2010-10-04", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 2, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "-EyEj5BujVFisco6OwmR8A", "review_id": "hZaIVcDD-d8H-mhjHqK3cA", "text": "My friend and I read some ok reviews of this place and decided to give it a go. Not crazy about the location but I think for lunch you're fine. I got the fish and shrimp with fries. The service was friendly, the food served quick and hot. The tartar sauce was pretty good and the cocktail sauce was pretty good. The fish itself was a little bland but I think that I will give them a try again but this time I will add a little lemon. I hear good things about the clam chowder so I think I'm gonna order that next time too. Maybe I'll be updating this review.", "business_id": "YxMnfznT3eYya0YV37tE8w", "stars": 3, "date": "2012-09-22", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "BEe04ziifpSkBdKsCSAUXA", "review_id": "XVjBE7nTGTB03AVjvsOQig", "text": "Great place. I have been a customer going on 25 years. It's the only deep fried fish (outside of home) that I like. The shrimp cocktail is the best. The only complaint is the shape of the spoons they give you.", "business_id": "YxMnfznT3eYya0YV37tE8w", "stars": 4, "date": "2012-10-26", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "4TmAgCeJMt1lIOfjmWmdWg", "review_id": "J1k8_lp5g1NewZvueM7yHg", "text": "Pretty good, but we're still looking for that GREAT fish and chips place in the Valley. I'd say this one is slightly better than average. The breading stayed ON the fish, which is a plus and the fish itself was nice and flaky without being too oily. The breading was a bit bland though, even after being doused in lemon juice and malt vinegar. \nI tend to think $6 is a bit steep for one piece of fish and fries, but since I only had one piece of fish they seemed to just fill the rest of my plate with french fries. The fries weren't anything special, but they were good with malt vinegar and ranch dressing.\nDefinitely a dive in a divey neighborhood, but overall a solid 3 stars.", "business_id": "YxMnfznT3eYya0YV37tE8w", "stars": 3, "date": "2012-10-27", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "VmodXiNzU2tuGaeBFaXktA", "review_id": "___XYEos-RIkPsQwplRYyw", "text": "If you want good fish and chips this is the place. hand filleted very light batter on the fish, fries are old fashioned not processed and frozen elsewhere. The only place that compares is Spud Fish and Chips in Seattle WA on Greenlake.\n\nThese are the best fish and chips in the World!", "business_id": "YxMnfznT3eYya0YV37tE8w", "stars": 5, "date": "2012-10-30", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "j6Ig9V60wygB2QnadP5jqg", "review_id": "jwp9iwO-KFZ3p0tAJV4Qnw", "text": "Just ok overall. The hush puppies were OUTSTANDING. Best I've ever had. The fish, fries and zucchini lacked seasoning and were a bland - although I used some hot sauce to fix it.", "business_id": "YxMnfznT3eYya0YV37tE8w", "stars": 2, "date": "2012-11-13", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "1rKdy6-7AvdsNRMu92AwAw", "review_id": "dhKjlYdzwKfhOmDuNZDBzw", "text": "The prices are good and the food is excellent. I love the fish and chips but the fried mushrooms are my favorite. It is a great place for the whole family.", "business_id": "YxMnfznT3eYya0YV37tE8w", "stars": 4, "date": "2013-09-13", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "hKcubct_FUZPLRk-VFBDXw", "review_id": "zgDSZpcJAboX7fwoiUC83g", "text": "Last of a dieing breed, best old style fish and chips with a home made cocktail sause", "business_id": "YxMnfznT3eYya0YV37tE8w", "stars": 4, "date": "2013-10-17", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "xjq2h2R3AiTAnpRX-FmZiQ", "review_id": "k4DAvNR-JlHD3AAOa8jfzw", "text": "Amazing food. Been here for years when they had Mesa location as well as Sullivan's pier too. It's too bad that closed. Well the fish is amazing. Just as you would find in the northwest. The hush puppies and zucchini are simply the best. You gotta try this place. Don't let the location scare you. It's next to Christies and Juicy Lucy's but completely worth it. Only thing I wish they had was homemade tartar sauce. The affiliated Sullivan's pier that used to be offered it for $.25 per one and it was fantastic.", "business_id": "YxMnfznT3eYya0YV37tE8w", "stars": 5, "date": "2013-11-18", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "JDqE5blNXqbNe_s7U-CN9A", "review_id": "3mw6-CAhz8Wmxb_IPJNGsg", "text": "Awesome fish and chips. Big portions and friendly staff. If your doing take out call ahead it will be much quicker. Try the shrimp they are huge and fresh.", "business_id": "YxMnfznT3eYya0YV37tE8w", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-09-14", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "97x0Y6QuPwe0PZKyQYMYGQ", "review_id": "_kLrRRtSTB4is5wGIAxuqw", "text": "Excellent food excellent service my favorite soda which is diet mountain dew\n\nThis place may not look like much from the outside or the inside, but it is very clean and they serve the seafood. If you want seafood this is the place to go. The location is not the best, but that is far from a hindrance when it come to the quality of the food and the friendly and excellent staff.", "business_id": "YxMnfznT3eYya0YV37tE8w", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-11-24", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "mOmpdec_OEkKOOp2U1s2Wg", "review_id": "ktOlrqN4I1Wit17iRGDXBQ", "text": "Their ranch is the best. Everything seems fresh for fried food and not too greasy! It's a very casual restaurant.", "business_id": "YxMnfznT3eYya0YV37tE8w", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-10-05", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "yzXzbmFLmeb0RnZQZPTzuw", "review_id": "9jtBhCRZySeZm-aEpHxcXw", "text": "Disgusting. What happened to this gold mine? We ordered Onion Rings and Hush puppies. Received 5 each. The plates and portions shrunk whoever the prices \nIncreased. Rocky Point Shrimp Cocktail \nIs half the size it used to be. \nTime to find a new place.", "business_id": "YxMnfznT3eYya0YV37tE8w", "stars": 1, "date": "2015-10-10", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "P_0o7KdcFHb4ZvbHHenALQ", "review_id": "v3eWiPfYvFgm3mlzVEj8uA", "text": "Divey (heh get it? Dive-ey in a seafood restaur... Never mind), with lots of parking and seating. My fish was moist with crispy breAding, but the shrimp were dry little things. I also tried their fried mushrooms, zucchini, and hush puppies--all ok, but nothing really special. They do have a condiment bar so you can get as much sauce as you need. The place you go when you want to get crispy fried things.", "business_id": "YxMnfznT3eYya0YV37tE8w", "stars": 3, "date": "2015-11-04", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "FvkpCbsI1QkYx-jFfqxgEA", "review_id": "hfz6dY2aKTI4JdeoUYA5ZA", "text": "I wanted to bring a friend here, but he took a look at the menu. All it said was 8 fish, 8 chicken, 12 shrimp, nothing about lunch specials, so he wanted to go somewhere else. Too bad I could not convince him how good the food is. I bet this happens to a lot of people.", "business_id": "YxMnfznT3eYya0YV37tE8w", "stars": 2, "date": "2015-11-12", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "DplcDM8pWDlWMfBXjvAhqw", "review_id": "uTO9yf_VZTbPB3DQknAaoA", "text": "The Best Fish and Ships by far this side of the East Coast. :)", "business_id": "YxMnfznT3eYya0YV37tE8w", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-11-20", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 12, "useful": 14, "cool": 8}, "user_id": "vF4B6eFdoDmyV_l7MLHMzw", "review_id": "pM7sPg4jy8zIC_MVxhkbxQ", "text": "Like many institutions in Phoenix, you can't live here unless you LOVE Pete's!! I have seen and heard many a Phoenician defend their beloved Pete's as they would that other famous fast food mecca Carolina's. \n\nI have lived in Phoenix my entire life and love Pete's and this is why I can stay! lol. From the street, it looks like an old take-out place that's all cute and retro... but noooooo... it's really an old take out place. and it produces some serious food! Whenever I go, I always peek at the mini factory of people dredging and frying all sorts of goodies. Shrimp (my fave), fish filets, hush puppies, corndogs, burritos and fries. \n\nOnce upon a time there used to be signs that read \"NO TATAR SAUCE, SO DON'T EVEN ASK!\" and all you had was Pete's patented red sauce that was part ketchup, part hot sauce but all lovely. Pete's sauce made everything taste better. It went well with the corndogs, the burritos, the fish, the shrimp, the fries and don't even get me started on the burgers!\nSadly, after DECADES of refusing the Phoenix masses their precious tartar sauce and forcing them to enjoy Pete's sauce (for their own good) Pete's has caved and now offers Tartar sauce... and it sucks! So now many people won't even get the chance to even try the glorious Pete's sauce... cuz they want their old standard Tartar sauce! *sigh* \n\nMy fellow yelpers, if you haven't had Pete's yet - GO! And try the fish & shrimp combo and if your appetite is healthy - try a small burger and get extra sauce and enjoy!! It's worth it!! :)", "business_id": "NXPuaH5R8rMfYqnnP5s1WA", "stars": 5, "date": "2008-09-02", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 6, "useful": 5, "cool": 3}, "user_id": "4oBViNYcsWpPexC405Gh2w", "review_id": "Mm4BU3MFMPHiPVZTUWUm3A", "text": "I remember an old Will and Grace episode where karen is wearing a disguise and eating at a taco shack. This is how I feel about Pete's. \n\nIt has been in business and the hearts of phoenicians since 1947. It is my guilty pleasure. This particular location is just a short drive down Central from my House. \n\nI agree with the yelpers review about ambience. Lets hope you like bird watching because ALL pete's locations are strictly outdoor seating. The food is great. Deep fried goodness!\n\nThey have an amazing sauce that goes well with everything. Part Ketchup, Part hot sauce. Simply amazing.\n\nCash Only!!!!\n\nSee you there!", "business_id": "NXPuaH5R8rMfYqnnP5s1WA", "stars": 4, "date": "2008-11-13", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 3, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "ZVknD9b5zcj_IL-2wtYwxw", "review_id": "QtdrCdL5ZEYofERARYewhA", "text": "Every time I do a search on Yelp for fish, Pete's pops up but I've always just passed it by. Today I actually decided to stop by and see what it was all about. I can see why one could pass it by, it's just off Central with no flashy gimmicks and no drive thru. I was lucky that the rain stopped long enough for me to get out of my car without getting drenched. \n\nI didn't know they only took cash and with only $7 in my pocket I came unprepared. I decided to order the 3 piece Fish and Chips for $5.35. I can barely finish the second piece of fish but this sauce is amazing. I will definitely call ahead with a large order of Oysters, Shrimp and Crabettes!", "business_id": "NXPuaH5R8rMfYqnnP5s1WA", "stars": 4, "date": "2010-10-05", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "-ezIxSw-wSBg7cNwjjb3cg", "review_id": "aWl4kIOqRv8oiGkSLtQyYQ", "text": "Have heard about this place for years....food is outstanding!!! Hey, its a hole in the wall, but sometimes those are the best!!!", "business_id": "NXPuaH5R8rMfYqnnP5s1WA", "stars": 4, "date": "2011-11-04", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 2, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "2wuW1X0nblAODIoM1lQACQ", "review_id": "9vUBDTi33bbTaoU7Dy87ZA", "text": "Don't do it.... I'm in the parking lot right now and am actually throwing out the food I just got at the drive in after taking one bite of the \"shrimp\" and fish \"square\".", "business_id": "NXPuaH5R8rMfYqnnP5s1WA", "stars": 1, "date": "2013-10-11", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "_dcXLUP083oOpAGIRBfnpA", "review_id": "jWm6h7s6seHfEk4vCW1LBQ", "text": "Gotta love Petes. Only complaints at this location is the shrimp. I hate the log skinny pieces instead of the whole shrimps like Mesa Dr! Also the extra cup sauces seem like they have more ketchup than the ones you get with the meal. But that could just be me trippin. IDK. LOL!", "business_id": "NXPuaH5R8rMfYqnnP5s1WA", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-11-21", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "9Ri2GGLjS0DPmQ82dAvbeA", "review_id": "JpMjCR9noqnjFTCVgoB8Cg", "text": "El Super Coctel is just like the sopas de mariscos my wife and I get in Rocky Point. $15 was enough for both of us, six tostadas worth. So happy to have found a local place for mariscos.", "business_id": "Bv3g-9R5wUevZPP0jzihqg", "stars": 4, "date": "2011-11-19", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "-8c6Yub0qiRyctRTnnN-JQ", "review_id": "PbzM-Csw5HWkU1s9Ajl2lQ", "text": "Best ceviche I've ever had. The decor is cute and made me feel like I was on a vacation in a coastal Mexican town. Service was friendly and the owner stopped by our table to say hello. How nice! I will definitely be visiting again.", "business_id": "Bv3g-9R5wUevZPP0jzihqg", "stars": 5, "date": "2012-09-25", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "-SvLqaZ_VW12Gnf8kHFHOA", "review_id": "wL4MwrrJ8beGQX7qbs-hmQ", "text": "had the super coctel..very fresh!!", "business_id": "Bv3g-9R5wUevZPP0jzihqg", "stars": 4, "date": "2012-10-01", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "UHP3C0QKU_XK17dJb0Px-A", "review_id": "jmmXsYVEZu2IFMdlHhaYiA", "text": "I was a Regular customer up to today. I didn't mind the service because sometimes you get the good waitresses and sometimes you get the ones with the attitude. But today I went in for a small order and as I was eating I grabbed some crackers and it looked like the wrapper had been bitten by mice. I brought it to the waitress attention and the owner soon came and snapped at me that her restaurant was very clean and that it must have been the kids that come in. There's no way it was kids because the crackers looked like they weren't tampered with the edges of the wrapper were bitten by mice I mean how stupid can you be to not notice that it was mice getting to the crackers. Very upset at how the owner handled the situation and still starting talking crap at how little I was buying. Smh never coming in again.", "business_id": "Bv3g-9R5wUevZPP0jzihqg", "stars": 2, "date": "2015-09-27", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "UE1UIi95jSk5tAzOdtnjIA", "review_id": "3lF7kq856LRG6I9DQALpQw", "text": "Nigiri sushi, this is usually why we go and have sushi. This places nigiri is amazing. The finest cuts of fish, the best edamami (if that is how it's spelled,) and the greatest service. \n\nI know that it is in a lackluster mall. There is not a huge air of pretension surrounding this place. And it is definitely not trying to \"keep up with the Joneses.\" This is EXACTLY why I love this place!", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 5, "date": "2007-11-27", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 3, "useful": 7, "cool": 2}, "user_id": "4UUIpbOTPmu43wuC2aSGkg", "review_id": "EVl6KmdPb-K-n4nOF7uIFg", "text": "I don't understand how this rates so high.\n As other reviewers have said, this is not good sushi. It's edible (thus the 2 star rating), but it's not great. I have been to this restaurant 3 times to make sure I wasn't missing anything, and each time I've been only mildly satisfied. They do not serve real crab, their rolls fall apart, and the service is not that great. Maybe I'm going at the wrong time? I have been there during lunch time each time I've gone and have not been impressed at all. On the 3rd try, my friend and I decided that we would not be returning any more.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 2, "date": "2008-09-10", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "QwO4LVCiPZZdg5URrQfYpw", "review_id": "nfBN8FS7cr9ZA58TIhy-Uw", "text": "You know, I've read some mixed reviews on this place. I enjoy going here. I think the pricing is reasonable, and I haven't had bad service. The food is pretty good (in comparison to other Phoenician Sushi restaurants).", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 4, "date": "2008-11-01", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "XybRkJlC2zIMMD-EesACxg", "review_id": "64vtYm2owbNf-jl-sR01fw", "text": "Very good and high quality sushi. I ventured there based on the helpful advice of the Yelp community and I was pleasantly surprised. I had the sashimi deluxe lunch which contained lovely pieces of fuji albacore...very good!\n\nThe place was very clean and the staff quite friendly and helpful. I'll definitely go back.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 4, "date": "2009-09-02", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "V0U-Qnr2L9gPjzj2PHHLYg", "review_id": "9ivu5aBg3xXejGD6hHafnA", "text": "Tonight was my second visit to Sakana. My first visit was for the lunch sushi special. More sushi than I could eat, for 10 bucks. Although the Cali roles were outstanding, the other pieces were average. Tonight I stopped in for Cali rolls, unagi, and edamame. The Cali rolls looked and tasted like they had been made 30 minutes before I arrived. The Unagi was outstanding! Huge pieces of eel, served warmed, tasty and filling. Service kinda sucked, waited a long time for a drink refil. Overall, average. Will return for sushi lunch special.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 2, "date": "2009-09-05", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "G-bS3DjLRYV2BSlRdMpvpQ", "review_id": "n-IqBYsb-lg7L-sfRIfPCA", "text": "OMFG, I love sushi!\n\nSushi bar with TVs, regular dining area, and a section setup for Teppanyaki.\n\nIt's great sushi at a great price.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 4, "date": "2009-10-02", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "bDomx2QRbZGw3ybT03AG1g", "review_id": "EAZQ86OEjddSQVuU0Wexog", "text": "Friendly service and fresh fish. This is the only place where they have more than just one hot sauce - Sriracha, fire sauce, and jabanero sauce. The last two were really good. $7 for 5 piece sashimi. Tuna and yellowtail was good. $9 Softshell crab roll was decent, but then again it's never that spectacular anywhere. Interestingly, I saw Larry Fitzgerald in parking lot. Now my outing to Phoenix is complete.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 4, "date": "2009-10-02", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "QBQlErZajdIyXX84dvFUnQ", "review_id": "Z-aM55CH7g_Sp6QW2PXqnA", "text": "I have been to Sakana twice and really enjoyed what I had. I had the Dynamite Crazy Fire roll and it was delicious. I also shared the Terriyaki chicken dish and it was good as well. I will be back for the roll many times for sure.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 4, "date": "2009-10-06", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "lRrkwHgmT_AMRJMIRHJMPw", "review_id": "jcTZCvZPc1SFF2AgAfZUKw", "text": "The BEST sushi that I have been around along with excellent service. I have had some other good sushi.... but this was the best priced and the best portions for your money.... if you like sushi (sashimi in particular) check this place out. I have also tried their 7-spice.. or 10-spice Salmon with spicy mayo sauce.... delicious!", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 5, "date": "2009-10-13", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 2, "useful": 3, "cool": 2}, "user_id": "UsULgP4bKA8RMzs8dQzcsA", "review_id": "aXwVfFHttvdcYkvvaTUZIg", "text": "I have been here once before today and thought it was OK. \n\nKnowing that have a huge daily special for only $10 I thought it would be perfect to share with my daughter, I think it comes with 5 pieces of assorted sushi fish, a crunchy California roll, crab tempura and a stuffed shrimp egg roll thing plus soup and salad, definitely a lot of food! \n\nThat's what we planned on ordering until we sat down at the sushi bar and saw them pre-making the CA rolls and setting them off to the side on a large tray...UGH you know how I HATE pre made stuff! \n\nI decided on a tuna/avocado roll and Val got a shrimp tempura roll, I also ordered a cucumber salad. \n\nWell I'm much more for quality over quantity and Sakana seems to be the other way around, yeah they give you a lot but it's really not that great. \n\nMy tuna roll was OK, the Shrimp tempura roll was filled with an enormous amount of mayonnaisey Krab meat and my cucumber salad was a giant bowl, probably 3 cucumbers worth, of just plain cucumbers WTH? \n\nI tried to explain to the guy making the sushi but he didn't understand my English because he spoke mainly Spanish and I don't think the waitress understood to clearly either when she returned to me with another bowl of less amount and less fresh cucumbers, plain again but with a drizzle of something foul. \n\nThere is much much better sushi to be had and I'm more than happy to pay for it elsewhere because Sakana's sushi isn't quality sushi to my standards. \n\nBut if your looking to fill up on mediocrity by all means pull up a chair.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 2, "date": "2009-11-11", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "0rm-Us8fokqP7ceb5yCd5w", "review_id": "YJYiWUzcKJodHuGs6C93Tg", "text": "My family and I have been dining at Sakana on Elliot for at least a decade and for the most part, have been very satisfied with our experiences. In fact, we would call it one of our \"go-to\" places. Over the last 6 months or so however, that has changed and as of today, I will not go back. Craving fresh sashimi and being consistently disappointed has not been good for my loyalty nor my pocket book. Today, my son and I tried yet again, wanting to give Sakana another chance. Today the albacore was fishy and mushy, some of the other fish was \"borderline\" and my cucumber roll lacked any substance or finesse.We were told nothing would be done in terms of compensation (i.e. taking something off the tab) because we did not inform them in enough time. Poor quality food, poor service...big bummer.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 1, "date": "2010-09-22", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 3, "cool": 2}, "user_id": "XeoAojoz5johV2MQ5ngNig", "review_id": "XyIdW26407LX_FFnaFsw5Q", "text": "Sakana is not gonna amaze you with fancy rolls or the freshest fish in the world but they combine some solid combos with a great price and solid service.\n\nI come to Sakana on a semi-regular basis for lunch because it is rare that you can find a $10-12 sushi lunch that won't leave you disgusted or with stomach problems later. Sakana has the wonderful Sakana lunch which is $10 comes with miso soup, small salad, a crunchy california roll thing, like 6 different nigiri pieces, and a spicy crab jalepeno popper thing. Yeah you read that right all of that for $10 at lunch time. I am a hungry dude and it's rare that i can finish all that food because there is so much. They also have a very good sashimi lunch special that is miso soup, 4 pieces of 4 different fishes, bowl of rice all for $11 and again very good. \n\nThe fish quality while not gonna make you mistake it for fresh catch or the best california or Seattle sushi joints is still fresh and tastes like it should and not like its been sitting for days or gonna be confused with the stuff sitting for hours on end at Fry's. I actually think it's pretty good and they do a good job at switching up what is in the lunch specials for what is in season and fresh so you do get good stuff and not just plain stuff as they mix in stuff like blue fin tuna or toro belly. I like the sashimi because usually it is Tuna, Salmon and 2 other fresh catches that rotate.\n\nAlso try the scallop dinamite as it is pretty good for cheap at lunch.\n\nLike i said though don't expect to be wowed as it won't happen but you want a good lunch for cheap this place is as solid as you can get.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 4, "date": "2010-10-08", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 2, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "sKXvBM91tMQZTS4bDsyZcg", "review_id": "kRO997gABsWT7LLEAPJH-w", "text": "Still the best sushi I've ever had. Partner in crime and other Cali friends agreed with my assessment. Arigato.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 5, "date": "2010-10-10", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "48DXrpTDt2OOpLt-9rsFoA", "review_id": "Yz_UZMfHT9LHM7Mr_Mj7lQ", "text": "Co-worker says 'Let me take you to my favorite sushi place - it's a secret!'\nSushi says I? I'm in!!!\n\nSo they dragged me here! If 4 stars means I'm a fan - then I am. Great prices and my old favorites were not screwed up. I kept thinking \"it must be double roll\" day because I ordered 2 rolls ... but some how ended up with closer to 20 slices. Is that real? I mean ... the value would be hard to beat. Especially since I went to sushi lunch the week before and spent almost 4 times as much for the same amount of food. I liked it. Will definitely go back. But ... it's a secret so you can't hang out in my joint.\n\nWould be interested in their teppan grill -- looks very intimate over there.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 4, "date": "2010-10-12", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "KbydXIKSeiFqZKctKVqLnQ", "review_id": "HSZLAIdDjlXix-3GVyd6yA", "text": "They have a very limited menu, horrible service, and a really pushy staff. I'm sure there are better places out there for cheaper.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 1, "date": "2010-10-14", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "zssolmdLpaX1tpRRMDWYwg", "review_id": "xhetFtcC4UmZ9EFVn3jKXA", "text": "Love this place! Good sushi & other cruisine.\nSushi Bar good for dates or table for family.\n\nTry the Baked Scallop Roll, it's the best!!", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 5, "date": "2010-10-26", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "yeHoRnyJjRd_s8o3ZkcKzw", "review_id": "HsHFyDarBft0BS3Z2GLBWQ", "text": "THIS PLACE IS HORRIBLE! The service is the worst you will get at any Sushi place I've been to. I went for lunch one day and ended waiting over an hour to get my meal and the bill. Our waitress never came back once to refill our sodas or anything. The staff was rude when we reminded them that the bill needed to be split. NEVER AGAIN!", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 1, "date": "2010-10-28", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "M9VMKsxr5BxyrgVoU5AuWQ", "review_id": "N1HTiL_T_fxtWXF1PBOelw", "text": "Why, oh, why is Teppanyaki such a challenge!?! It is the ultimate in party cuisine and a great experience, plus the food seems that much better cooked in front of you. Somehow though Phoenix remains without a great Teppan restaurant.\n\nMy nephew is an Asian food junkie and loves Teppan, so for his birthday we really wanted to give him a great experience and Sakana remained one of two places in town we have not tried so onward...\n\nWe were sat immediately about 15 minutes prior to our reservation and quickly ordered drinks and sushi. After reading other reviews I walked over to the sushi bar and looked at the day's specials. We ordered two types of Nigiri off the special board and then Uni and Spicy Scallops. For my nephew we got a spicy tuna roll. There was nothing wrong with any of it. The sushi had a clean taste and was very good. It was a pleasant surprise.\n\nThe teppan started with a decent soup and salad. The show itself was good, not great. The portions of the meats were astonishing, absolutely huge. Same with the veggies. The rice was good and came in the standard cup. A little odd was that the rice and veggies were an add on for an additional $3. Not a big deal but just different. Overall all the meats and the shrimp were okay. I took a piece of my husband's steak as Teppan steak I always feel has the best flavor for steak from my perspective as a non steak eater, and it tasted like typical steak.\n\nSo basically the whole food experience was a standard. Nothing really standing out, nothing bad. On the other side was the service. Lackadaisical is the word that comes to mind. My sister said she felt she bussed our table. Since our party of 4 was alone at the teppan table we kept passing her our dishes to put on the other end as not one thing was removed from the table. Think about the number of items I mentioned having and how many dishes that means! I had to ask to get water and tea refills and my glasses were removed and returned in the most bizarre way. A pitcher could have been so much simpler. It took a good 15 minutes for my sister's beverage to come from the bar. It was almost an hour before the teppan chef came over. \n\nThe server though was personable enough that the non-service service was less irritating than it might have been in other circumstances. I doubt I will be back, but it wasn't a bad experience and for someone in the Ahwatukee area i would say if they have time and don't have a ton of money to spend on Teppan or sushi it is not a bad choice.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 3, "date": "2010-10-30", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "1isUdyg7SFk3_VHpZwLxpg", "review_id": "Hwn8IwyAGlCQYadsxYJgaQ", "text": "Been going there for years. Love the food and the service is great. When I have my Japanese counterparts in town, that is the only place they want to go for sushi. If you are looking for a show, sake bombers and assembly line manufactured rolls, this is not the place for you. If you want fresh fish at reasonable prices, this is the place to go.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 5, "date": "2010-11-24", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "bkqcHALQmLie8p8bEAiA5g", "review_id": "HTp_dvRvB7cAc9dlX2Wzfw", "text": "My fav new sushi place. Screw the Ra's and Kona Grill's...ick. All the specialty rolls are amazing. I also order the baked mussels and squid salad. Great service, great wine and friendly enviornment. Being a massive 80's music fan...they play tons of it and it makes me very happy as I eat...haa :) I would say this is the best sushi I have had since Kyoto's in Scottsdale. Also their specialty drinks are awesome and pretty big as well. This is a must! :)", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 4, "date": "2011-09-02", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "Txo4ZGYBVPVLjbKHyCr8aQ", "review_id": "nr5eRL0XzktMhWmDNn8Ulg", "text": "By far my favorite sushi place!", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-09-04", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "eueKMQ-JMFFwtiwEjd1_oA", "review_id": "Npkrj-VzwRLUIYX8s_rVxg", "text": "I HEART Sakana, I have been going to Sakana since my 16 year old was in a high chair. It is by far the best restaurant in Ahwatukee and the best sushi to get in Phoenix. \nIf you need something to do with valley visitors take them to Sakana for the sushi & Tepan tables. \nPrice is fair, they do have a happy hour menu so one can try new things.... \nGO FOR IT!", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-09-16", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 2, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "RqfHaelhNMn-UpTRnAtw8w", "review_id": "35gdXh_RrXme9XJMpIM4Gw", "text": "One might call me a \"sushi whore.\" So it's safe to say, \"If there's good Sushi in town, it's been in my mouth.\" I'm from southern California where the sushi is plentiful and the quality is world-class. SAKANA is by FAR, my favorite sushi spot in the valley. The atmosphere lovely, the sushi unparalleled, \nThey have customer appreciation Monday-Thursday for all you penny pinchers and starving college students out there. Equally as notable, if you buy a large Kirin, you get a .50 cent appetizer; so \"bottoms up\" to the ultimate place to grab a cold one. \nOh, and Keep this under your hats, but here's a little insider tip for all you \"rock stars from Mars\": If you're looking to have some real fun- SUSHI BAR. These guys are bitchin. (If you want to find out just how \"bitchin\" they are, grab a seat and prepare to get swash buckled)... \n\"Meh\"- Teppanyaki is decent, but EVERY sushi item is Perfection for the taste buds. They offer daily roll-specials so make sure to check em out when you arrive. Eat well, live well and surround yourselves with ones who do. - Cheers.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-09-26", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "9KQK4uLo6JER1YxXNJKKRw", "review_id": "p_qyZ0UNK3oIrVQs7QAwZg", "text": "I wanted to like this place, but honestly only because of the sushi chef Ramon, who was flirting with me while I was dining solo after work and even tried to give me free food (cooked salmon ribs). Unfortunately, I got puking sick immediately after leaving this place and considering I only had 2 drinks and I'm not a lightweight, I can only blame the sushi. I suppose I should have known something was up when the yellowtail didn't have that signature taste I love so much and the salmon seemed to have a filmy texture but as I said, Ramon made me want to like this place. The portions were huge but in addition to my horrible aftermath, I found the selection of fish and rolls to be limited (no bluefin toro or shiro maguro) and my waitress was very inattentive.\n\nI'm sorry Ramon but I will not be coming back to see you.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 1, "date": "2011-10-09", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 3, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "sKXvBM91tMQZTS4bDsyZcg", "review_id": "ACf-NyEYFADGLPwNiIwd0A", "text": "......and still, the best sushi I've ever had AND they always have cute friendly waitresses taking care of business. Desiree has spectacular eyes and a warm smile!\n\nLunch today was deelish and I'll be going back a few more times before heading back to the bay. New partner in crime will try it this weekend and I'm sure she gonna rike it.\n\nArigato guey!!", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-10-10", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "KcnrpEOCMXEfI7-VK-H5AA", "review_id": "vCX7gzHymoKsR34lpmMRyQ", "text": "My wife and I stopped in for some delicious sushi before attending an event in Phoenix. The sushi was delicious. My wife, who typically doesn't like tuna LOVED our spicy tuna role. Everything was so fresh. The service was outstanding and fast! Great experience!", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-11-19", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "_oCctJEJ9eR3XTGBsmzY9g", "review_id": "3J9_hscDu9YYi28fd6chiA", "text": "Best sushi in Phoenix, not much else to say. Fish is so fresh, and portion are large, just a great value. They also serve tapanyaki which is really good. Just wish they were open for lunch on weekends.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-11-20", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "1iTvgcZmX6m63YBgcYYRkQ", "review_id": "7prtaulx35JJXU9xdqZq2g", "text": "I'm only willing to give this a 2 because I think the restaurant has potential. I've now gone twice because my friend stands by it being the best in the area. Every time I've gone, the servers completely ignore us. During the first time, it took about 10 minutes to get a menu. Maybe another 15 to get a simple gin & tonic. When the server finally decided to come back around to see if we wanted to eat (we'd been looking for her for a while) we ordered a small amount of food. 20 minutes later a new server delivers the food (which was warm and awful). We sat around for about 15 more minutes waiting for our checks (which were delivered by yet another new person). They finally take our money and also take their sweet time bringing back the change. I will openly admit that I did not tip. I forgot to mention that this was at night. It was a little busy, but eventually completely died. After the crowd disappeared, we still got completely ignored.\n\nThe second time I decided to give it a chance, we went for lunch. The service was a bit better. I could only assume that the other person helping our server was the manager. He flat-out lied to my face, which upset me very much. I asked for a gin & tonic again. The server goes to put that drink order in and the manager comes up to me saying their out of both gin and tonic. I ordered a vodka cranberry instead. It was awful. Probably no vodka in it. My friend pointed to the shelves of liquor where there stood in plain sight a bottle of Tanqueray and a bottle of Bombay. Thanks manager for being such an asshole. Once again the food came out at a warm temperature. It was very hard to keep down. \n\nAfter the 2nd trip, I've decided not to come back. It's awful service, management, and mediocre food. I highly advise that the owner or GM takes a good look at his staff and the way things are being ran. It's a bad restaurant in every way.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 2, "date": "2012-09-04", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 2, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "fytQ4lPYbvzbzy6M4TIQ-g", "review_id": "KDCLzImmrlI-jcuzYeDy3A", "text": "I've been to Sakana's a number of times but since I found Sushi Ken about a year ago, there's usually no other place I go to for Sushi besides Sushi Ken. However, if Sushi Ken happens close for any reason, my next choice is Sakana's. They offer some good tasting sashimi. The ambiance is quite nice here as well. If you want to take a date out or want to go out for some drinks with a group of friends, this place will provide you with a nice hip atmosphere but not like Ra; where every hipster and pretentious people like to hang out because they think sushi is trendy and cool.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 4, "date": "2012-09-11", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "TRtehjMp71bBBmHboQIn1g", "review_id": "w5jr-o1f09yYZ-Mu28saXg", "text": "Tempura for lunch was great. So was the sushi rolls. The service was beyond GREAT!! All the staff seems to working for one goal, custumer satisfaction!!", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 5, "date": "2012-09-26", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "kE2Dw1sKMeaDOpyZNVQKJQ", "review_id": "i6TdzuCn9uqIsDhOKa0NUQ", "text": "Great lunch specials! The best green tea ever! Love this place. Always great fast service.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 5, "date": "2012-10-21", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "RSPGzQX39eTQ0Cdp17KS7w", "review_id": "6YvdBe5DWw-7mI891Wsw_g", "text": "Best sushi in Phoenix, hands down!", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 5, "date": "2012-10-23", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 2, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "-2PFmYGWB6rQhZtRh6PlPA", "review_id": "eblfHQXlZP1WN70ZAbD9Og", "text": "Like their happy hour stuff, pretty good sushi for being in Phoenix, good service, friendly people, funny sushi guys. We had went there after being disappointed by Nobuo at the Teeter House, found out they were owned by the same company, became less of a fan after that comment. Seems kinda dark sometimes.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 4, "date": "2012-11-15", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "q-I1sEztfa2SMqi1iEszWA", "review_id": "1FWR-NCAfQgQ6kQpEx0laQ", "text": "We have been going to Sakana since around we moved to Tempe in 1995. It has been consistent over the years; great, fresh sushi, generous portions, reasonable prices.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 5, "date": "2012-11-24", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "_k1lZP9bVrmIYpfwLLtZZA", "review_id": "xJNwwUuOGMJXoBY8TL18_g", "text": "I LOVE this place. It's my birthday dinner with my fiance tonight, and sushi is my favorite. He told me that I can pick whatever place I'd like to go. I choose Sakana. I can't get enough of their stuff and that's not saying their portions are small. They aren't. They give you really nice sized sushi rolls and at an affordable price. My fiance doesn't like sushi, but they offer other types of non-fish foods like chicken and beef so he's happy too. I'm so excited to have dinner tonight! I can't wait!", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 5, "date": "2012-11-30", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "n7yq3tRckuHBkIbXdGtV-Q", "review_id": "xwJa7FoIId4XCv7Uc2IBoQ", "text": "Ramon was amazing! We needed a gluten free dinner and Ramon personally assisted us with options, cooked and served our meals. He was friendly, knowledgable and very gracious. The food was outstanding, atmosphere was casual and comfortable. It was obvious that many diners were regulars and staff knew them by name and preferences. We will definitely return and will recommend this restaurant.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 5, "date": "2013-09-02", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "hn_DclKLzdxABRGGAuqKgg", "review_id": "ZVTh1PbAO7kYnWxOOrJSyg", "text": "It's always a good sign when you arrive at a restaurant 5 minutes before it opens and there's already customers tugging at the door trying to get in.\n\nIf you purchase a large Kirin beer, you can add an appetizer for $1. We tried the calamari tempura, which was pretty good. I liked the light tempura batter, and the fry on the calamari and accompanying jalapenos was good. We also had the edamame, which were a little undergone to me. Still, everything was such a great price that you can't complain too much.\n\nThe Sakana lunch special is a really good value - big plate of sushi and rolls for $10. A friend and I split this, along with 2 additional rolls. The fish portions were good, and I thought the rolls were very fair for the price. Alaska roll was nice, as was the Mexican caliente roll.\n\nPortions were generous, so we weren't able to finish everything even after indulging ourselves into a food coma. For the lunch prices, I think Sakana was good. I'm not sure if I would stop in for dinner, but if I'm in the area again for lunch, I might stop in.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 3, "date": "2013-09-02", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "bwmXfjwrogAaGqV33kSVpQ", "review_id": "i89wJ97_V6Lvt3JydWAjig", "text": "Came back for lunch and sushi was very fishy. Prices are still good and happy to get free soup. They should also tweak their salad dressing because it's very pungent and not in a good way.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 3, "date": "2013-10-07", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "1GmCIw-pZa3cWfXVwafu2Q", "review_id": "I_yCpQw05sVtdsPfldz-tA", "text": "The sushi here is a little expensive, but it is worth getting. The staff are very friendly and the environment is nice. This is the only sakana location that does teppan. My family and I go here at least once a wee. Probably one of the best sushi places I've ever been too!", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 5, "date": "2013-10-16", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 2, "useful": 2, "cool": 2}, "user_id": "fwEPqYiyZCaB7QKY6a7h5g", "review_id": "4yWnWvr9JgkfU43tkNKUrw", "text": "*I'm torn between 3 and 4 stars, gaaah! So let's just say, 3.5.*\n\nMet Monica O. and Preston S. here for lunch a couple of months back.\n\nKind of cramped atmosphere, and the d\u00e9cor is interesting to say the least. Like someone couldn't choose a theme. But, that adds character! \n\nI had heard great things about the Sakana Lunch ($10). \n\nYou get miso soup, a small salad, six nigiri pieces, your typical crunchy-saucy California-esque roll and a crunchy crab jalape\u00f1o popper roll. \n\nDid I mention this was all for $10? So much food! Couldn't even finish mine. \n\nThe miso soup was meh, but really enjoyed the ginger dressing used on the salad. \n\nIs it the freshest sushi in the world? Definitely not. But you have to remember, this is Arizona. At least it didn't seem suspect. \n\nService is friendly, yet a bit on the slow side, so wouldn't recommend Sakana if you're tight on time during a workday lunch. I likely won't come back for lunch as my work falls into the \"nearby, but not so nearby\" when you throw in the time factor. \n\nIs Sakana going to blow your mind? Likely not for those sushi connoisseurs out there. But I'd like to give them another try for dinner.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 3, "date": "2013-10-18", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "sKXvBM91tMQZTS4bDsyZcg", "review_id": "s8i-jzgFLg06ZyM8Mwzq4Q", "text": "Still the best sushi, this side of the Pecos (river, not road).\n\nThis is my go to sushi place, each time I ride into town. Sometimes I'll eat here several times before hitting the road again.\n\nOne thing I noticed this time around, was that many of their \"happy hour\" sushi specials, seem to all be a variation of a California roll. Hmmm? As good as this place is, I don't see the need for such creative increased profit margin tactics.\n\nOh well, I just won't order those items on my next visit, which won't be soon enough.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 5, "date": "2013-10-25", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "FJaX_D3ryibvLn0xp_bFkg", "review_id": "aHIiRQOHf4eYGrmpsWRwzA", "text": "Probably the worst sushi I've had in the Phoenix area. I wanted to enjoy it because of the great reviews, but the bland \"spicy\" edamame, baked scallop roll that was basically just a mess of mayo and lump crab, the salt less/vinegar less suonomo salad, and the inedible salmon bomber roll ensures that I will never come back. The best part of the meal was that my dog could eat the edamame because they were so lacking in any seasoning.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 1, "date": "2014-09-02", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "srMlpNPmINV47qxiYjtWEg", "review_id": "QVoxPPlbOIWlw32Qfz6TNQ", "text": "Just got done eating my meal and thought w I ull give this place thumbs up. Awesome food. The spicy edamame and fried calamari with fried jalape\u00f1os is to die for! Happy Hour is is awesome and easy on the pocket. Thanks to my friend for introducing me to his place", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-09-11", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 4, "cool": 2}, "user_id": "wUEp87FqOB9ew27Iz6zk_w", "review_id": "dfRQqzy8mvjnwmQoOfQViQ", "text": "The Sunday night happy hour here is amazing! I'm not sure how long the happy hour lasts, but we came at 7 pm and got to take advantage of it. They have about 10 rolls on their HH menu for only $4-5 each. We thought the rolls would be really small bc the waitress told us they would only come with 5 pieces (instead of the 8 pieces from the regular menu) but they were just as big as rolls that I'm used to eating. I ordered an appetizer and two rolls and I actually had to take one entire roll home because I was soooo full.\n\nFor appetizer I got agedashi tofu. It was different than I'm used to, because the tofu pieces were pretty small, but there were a LOT of them. I'm used to larger, but fewer, pieces of tofu. The sauce they had it in was delicious and spot on. But I think that they do not dip the tofu in potato starch like other places do bc the outside wasn't that slippery chewy texture, it was straight up just fried tofu. I probably would not order this dish again.\n\nFor my rolls I got spicy tuna and scallop dynamite. The spicy tuna was what you'd except, but VERY large pieces in the roll! I couldn't even fit a whole piece in my mouth at one time.\n\nThe scallop roll was a california roll topped with a LARGE mound of krab and scallops (cooked). It was a warm roll. I enjoyed it, although I was expecting the scallops to be raw! I think I would've liked it better if they had been raw, but it was still good.\n\np.s. - if you check in on yelp you can score a free edamame appetizer!", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-10-06", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "v6Z4gM_52ZAyz-3e_MS3Bg", "review_id": "sJ68T6tyCBmQuRxqBqC9NQ", "text": "Great sushi and near the apartment so very convenient. Love the atmosphere and the service was well. Got to do it again and try the Hibachi next time. Oh yeah!", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-10-13", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "R6OdqGQTtr2aDb-KWqHtxw", "review_id": "2ipeHoVQWsIDqymE2o0wug", "text": "The best so far that I've had in the Phoenix valley. I have not been to other locations. The portions are huge and the price, not huge!", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-10-16", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "GMmqNBQ4_TwOd3ciqq0nJA", "review_id": "jUQS_AXiUnW1LR3cFPNmlQ", "text": "When we first got seated our server was trying to catch up and was a bit frazzled, but as a server I totally understand that feeling. We told her we weren't in a hurry and she took a deep breath and thanked us for giving her a break. Her service was very prompt and knowledgeable about the food. And the food was incredible, especially for the price point! That's not a cop out for the food but I was pleased when we received our tab. We had a great time on our anniversary dinner and will definitely return", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-11-03", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "MAYbrM_W6bfKuahU5KVr3Q", "review_id": "sKISFTBl8ZAoFJn5z2v47g", "text": "I stopped by here on the way to Prescott from Tucson, after I spotted it was the closest to I-10 and super easy to get to. I try to eat healthy on the road, so was happy it was a quick in and out option. I went on a Sunday, so it was nice to hit happy hour. I'm not sure of times, but we got a menu with lots of rolls at half-price. Naturally, we went for the Vegas roll, which was delicious and the Spicy Tuna.\n\nBoth came out super fast and tasted very nice. The service was quick and we were basically in and out in less then 30 minutes. I was able to get the free edamame with my check-in on Yelp, which was nice! They had lots of sashami, but unfortunately, none of that was on the happy hour menu. Over all it is a nice, all be it, very darkly lit sushi restaurant to sit in, with football playing for those interested.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 3, "date": "2014-11-07", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "bHlK0QmRUR1SjD1_81mYyA", "review_id": "DeajdMxM8DQmXveAX0NwwA", "text": "This is definitely one of the best sushi restaurant I have ever eaten at. Portions were large, the service was quick, the staff was friendly and very polite and this for a very cheap price!\n\nOne of the best experiences I have known in the US. French sushi restaurants should take this one as an example of perfection.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-11-18", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "kX5cGoaDifkXw0K6hYfKQg", "review_id": "Kc35vBi80vExNVTSpHdE6A", "text": "My favorite go to place for sushi! Excellent for large groups for birthday parties, etc. and the teppan tables. Ramon is awesome and is always happy to create unique rolls for us.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-09-03", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "HFPlE3acvrdlbIpynDtV4w", "review_id": "igX6uhHvRgiKX5qoTlPKWA", "text": "I really like this place we go here all the time. I've worked at a sushi bar so I'm a bit of a sushi snob but this place has quality sushi. Fresher than other places. Reasonable prices and great specials for lunch. Guys behind the sushi bar are on point, very friendly and fast service from them. Server's can be very slow however, regardless of whether or not it's a busy night. All things considered, it's a great place to eat!", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-09-05", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "9QKxdUQm76qWKPQlnmSHsg", "review_id": "RMdK33YfuFs6sCvxXjQGdA", "text": "Great sushi...great teppan. Shrimp fried rice is to die for! Great happy hour for appetizers and drinks.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-09-23", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "PTOkLCHQtPGaIGkCJOUwBg", "review_id": "70kkhN-pPSPMxTBN7uNYpw", "text": "Good food and a fun experience too! We had a family birthday dinner here and with a 2 year old and 9 month old eating out isn't the easiest thing! The kids were mesmerized by the teppan chef and the food was all very good.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-10-01", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "gW7SnWlwjWQp61Kt7jHX5g", "review_id": "3JnD-slSb1JMFW1gI-e9kQ", "text": "We regularly eat at this place, and the food is really good. The service used to be good too, but in the past few months has dramatically changed for the worse. Had to wait a very long time to get our orders and when we did, the chicken skewers were undercooked and inedible. A couple of times they screwed up our orders. Some of the waiters had wrong information about the menu. That kind of stuff. Also, the quality of the food is inconsistent. However, when it's good, it's really good!!", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 3, "date": "2015-10-03", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "3gIfcQq5KxAegwCPXc83cQ", "review_id": "ypUq0GMzciw9H54ZRn8stA", "text": "I recently tried Sakana with some coworkers for 'happy hour' which really isn't happy hour at all. Sakana has some specials on sushi during the week and also offers discounted apps when you buy a 20 oz beer. I tied the gyoza, which were your standard, probably frozen, gyoza, but they tasted fine. I also tried a couple rolls, their vegetarian jungle roll was alright, though it was not rolled tightly and mostly fell apart. I tried the roll with salmon skin which was odd. They had some more imaginative rolls on the menu, but they were really pricy. I would possibly come back, but it wouldn't be my first choice.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 3, "date": "2015-10-04", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "PJtCZr11JOV1k_K4T7F25A", "review_id": "DSBOB7XkgP7UV80Q_roi7g", "text": "Had my worst Beef Teriyaki at this place today for lunch take-out... Slow service too but that maybe because its towards the end of the time they are open for lunch... \nAnyways, very disappointed with my Beef Teriyaki.... \nDidn't look like it, didn't taste like it --- watered down sauce version with carrots, broccoli and mushroom.... WTF kind of teriyaki is that... If I didn't have a work meeting, I'd have taken it back....\n\nHave had ok experiences with the Mesa location but not recommending this location at all.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 1, "date": "2015-10-15", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "V3XipfYV1U4WYbe6Whjzlg", "review_id": "7zxJHKutwdoX9_P93xxBTg", "text": "I am really enjoying that Sakana has a great menu and a small menu of particular types of rolls. My husband doesn't \"love\" sushi, but he likes Sakana and I think it's great that both he and I can get a couple of rolls and be satisfied. I am looking forward to the next time I will visit Sakana. That's how you know a place is great!", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-10-16", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "5_TrkCclE0Gu27TSqUfmUg", "review_id": "s6Xgsf2mOQhnhEya_wKkhw", "text": "I didn't know exactly what I was getting when I ordered the salmon dynamite. It ends up being so good. It's a five piece sushi roll configured in a round set up with a huge salmon cake on top of it. Absolutely delicious. Then I had a shrimp tempura which was. Good. Both times I was there the service was fine. The hostess was really nice and friendly.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-11-04", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "Ro3LmUp31Lk_azvDd3ETlQ", "review_id": "rYsb4E1OsUyBaho3nto0Gw", "text": "Love, love, love this place. This is our go to sushi spot. I have been here at least 50 times in the last 4 years and it rarely disappoints (if it does they are either out of Uni which cannot be blamed on them or slow service which is on them). This place always has the freshest seafood. I am an Uni lover and get this every time if they have it. Sometime based on CA weather they may not get it in but most times they do. It is the best an most consistent. Their yellowtail is melt in your mouth delicious. I love their specials too whether it's bluefin toro, Spanish mackerel, oysters, it is very consistent and very good. Friendly staff, great sushi chefs, fantastic executive chef. I can't say enough about them. It is usually busy so sometimes service can be slow but the flavor and freshness of the sushi makes up for it. I've taken my kids for teppan and it is good and entertaining. I'd eat here every day if my wallet would let me.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-11-06", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "6uda1Pj43qW5_9Hoj25IMg", "review_id": "_m2IcoKPqCUg-kP4FHxLhw", "text": "My favorite sushi restaurant in Phoenix. Amazing value during lunch, too. Highly recommended!", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-11-18", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "qKGYTEvKjZ0xvx_GkGPj5A", "review_id": "c9KfLnyGwKy5OgSWTqM2uw", "text": "Great food, great service, great time. Huge portions....enough to share and we still took some home. Mike is a super waiter. It was our first time here and he was very helpful and patient.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-11-19", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "vOhSOhj8nuij56cLB-XAGg", "review_id": "qiDyHJYIvJmiKDQlvBi72g", "text": "We were so disappointed. We had heard so many good things about this place. We placed our order and got our soup & salad and one of our group had a worm or worms that was on the table. We don't know if it was on the bowl or on the table or where it came from. The staff were very nice and offered to move us to another table, but we were so put off by it that we decided to leave. We offered to settle up our bill but the management wouldn't accept it. They gave us a coupon to try them again at a later time.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 1, "date": "2015-11-22", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "CuTTttdyfxmQnQV0gKY_BA", "review_id": "jWWjVP0G98nvvAsQknZqOw", "text": "I've been coming to this place for years. Tried other venues but always seem to be coming back to this place, no other place comes even close, quality & price wise. \nThe bad: Employee turnover, and with that comes the inevitable drop in customer service quality. They used to greet me by my first name, unfortunately it's no longer the case. It was nice while it lasted. Not a huge deal, after all it's just the way it goes nowadays, isn't it?", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-11-23", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "DB7QchPV2SQ0ZsrztDNouA", "review_id": "TmFiV985qOO2uyDU8IFtZw", "text": "If I could give this a negative review, I would! I am so disappointed! We had worms on our table. I thought maybe it have fell off our bowl or while he was cooking in front of us. Two worms on our table! The manager apologized for it but this was just gross. Where there are two worms there are more. People lined up for this place and its filthy like this?! Never going back. Will write an in depth review on my blog.", "business_id": "0vzZ_Bcb02rJljeMU9XkBw", "stars": 1, "date": "2015-11-23", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 2, "useful": 3, "cool": 2}, "user_id": "8cJ-n5BEb1LAR0qFM9zrxg", "review_id": "Kw4HHtjyAQqzH_EdtNe_9w", "text": "Oooh what a treasure. 5 regular restaurant stars? Nah. 5 buffet stars. \n\nThis place does appear a bit on the pricey side if you go for dinner, but we went for lunch and it was very reasonable. Plus, look what you get: all the normal Chinese buffet stuff, PLUS the whole Mongolian grill table experience, PLUS all-you-can-eat sushi, made to order. You literally just walk up and order fresh sushi off of a fairly extensive menu, and it's all included in the price. It's better than all-you-can-eat steak night at the Sizzler.\n\nThe food is fresh and tasted great. They have a great selection that goes beyond a lot of the typical buffet stuff, like frog legs and lychee fungus. Trust me, it's very refreshing. The hot and sour soup is phenom. They had 99-cent bottled beers as well.\n\nAlso, the staff is really nice. The waiter assigned to our table swooped in at regular intervals to grab dirty dishes and refill glasses. He was friendly, efficient, and nearly invisible, which is pretty much the perfect recipe for a waiter.\n\nTry it for lunch at the lower prices and see for yourself!", "business_id": "-Ogv7rpcgUHkFaSy3vD8Sw", "stars": 5, "date": "2009-11-28", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 5, "useful": 3, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "GZZs7288ZoIz2hx_vcAVUw", "review_id": "R5_XehCSucnzA5jxnabZmw", "text": "This place was really nice inside. It was very classy and the waiter was attentive. The food was just whatever. Nothing too great. The sushi was made to order but came in very small portions. Since all I wanted to eat was sushi this made it very difficult and awkward for me. I don't really like buffets ;{\n\nThat's why I'm trying to be nice about it. It's really unfair for a person who doesn't like buffets to review a buffet. My boyfriend said the food was just okay. Everything was cold. Decent...but cold.\n\nThey had Mr Pibb though and in my book that earns an automatic star. I don't care what you say. That's a very important thing!", "business_id": "-Ogv7rpcgUHkFaSy3vD8Sw", "stars": 3, "date": "2010-09-09", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "XqMkm-DD9VsdcKx2YVGhSA", "review_id": "r4FaczYISzliOnr11NrkQQ", "text": "I can't say I'm a big fan of buffets. I can never eat enough to make it worth while. Seriously, how can you keep stuffing your face after an hour! However, I enjoyed my visit to this buffet. Nice Sunday dinner gathering with the family. I was impressed with some of the exotic varieties. Frog Legs, Beef Tendon, Octopus, etc...I feel like Andrew Zimmerman! Bizarre Foods with Bao Hoang :) Aside from the exotic ingredients the food from the buffet wasn't bad at all. Sushi seemed \"fresh\"..... Plus, Coronas and Bud Lights for $1 with food....man I'm coming here just for the drinks! I like their decor since I am Asian I dig Asian art. They definitely added an extra flare to make the place pop - totally dig the decor surrounding the Sushi bar. - enjoy!", "business_id": "-Ogv7rpcgUHkFaSy3vD8Sw", "stars": 4, "date": "2010-09-20", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "-J06hZ3w7N2oV5QwaAjtwg", "review_id": "8ligWriIVwyotqu3VjnjyQ", "text": "The over all look, feel and customer service of the place was awesome, but I love the fact that they have sushi and crazy items like chicken feet, sea snails and red bean fungus soup. Eating there is definitely an adventure!", "business_id": "-Ogv7rpcgUHkFaSy3vD8Sw", "stars": 4, "date": "2010-09-28", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "nGiFOo8LoXpD10k22kxUVw", "review_id": "kN5CX0joFFzHukeF3AztMA", "text": "Let me just start by saying that I gave my rating based on other buffets. This one is amazing! They have raw oysters, delicious sashimi, crab puffs, all the classic dishes and even a Mongolian BBQ station. This place is also extremely clean! It blows pretty much all other buffets I've been to out of the water. \n\nOn top of all the wonderful food they have a full bar. I think they display the beer so you'll drink that and eat less. Sorry suckers, I'm not falling for it. This isn't my first time at the rodeo! I like beer just as much as the next girl but I'm saving the prime stomach real estate for FOOD and lots of it! \n\nI heard family night was on Tuesday and read that children under 11 eat free after 5pm. If you're a single/unmarried/childless adult I would probably stay away from this night. I read a review once where someone praised a buffet because their children got to run around and release their energy instead of being couped up in a booth. I did see a little bit of this happening at HK but nothing major however it wasn't family night to BEWARE! \n\nAlso, you can't use the handy little yelp coupon on family night which isn't fair to those of us who don't receive a discount from that promo but oh well. Moral of the story is don't go on Tuesday!", "business_id": "-Ogv7rpcgUHkFaSy3vD8Sw", "stars": 5, "date": "2010-10-12", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "vLMwisRi7IWPooI9YZ1znA", "review_id": "ICAhG1jQpNoDtXKEbEYE8Q", "text": "Does anyone expect a lot from a Chinese buffet? Should they? There were excellent ones in Washington DC, so I know they exist. Should I temper my review with the knowledge that most Chinese buffets are far inferior to this one? Does that make this place any better? Sigh, I don't even know where to begin.\n\nThe place is not disgusting inside - if you want to call that neat or well-decorated, I don't know if you can. I don't think I'd go that far. Servers are fast and attentive with drinks and clearing plates - you have to appreciate their hustle.\n\nThe majority of the items on the buffet are absolutely, unequivocally ordinary. If your mission is to eat as much food as possible for as cheaply as possible, this would be an excellent place to do it. Seafood is especially fishy and most items seem as if they've had a long-life under the heat lamp. Mongolian BBQ (which I'm a fan of) is a low-frequented item here, and the veggie selection illustrates this clearly. There are maybe 5 roughly chopped vegetable choices, a confusing selection of sauces and a couple trays of meat melting in front of you. Not terribly appetizing and the final product is as lackluster as you'd expect.\n\nThe only true deal is the sushi, of which you can eat copious amounts of and have prepared for you fresh and on demand. It's not exceptionally good quality, but at a place as low ticket as this, it's a welcome addition to see something being made fresh for you.\n\nWould not go back, and the result of reading many of the reviews here leads me to believe that if this is supposed to be the best of the bunch, I might as well give up hope on the concept of the exceptional Chinese buffet in Phoenix altogether.", "business_id": "-Ogv7rpcgUHkFaSy3vD8Sw", "stars": 2, "date": "2010-11-05", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "nFDxRStINHvY_OCsEwuS4g", "review_id": "xpiyeUBRdyHLzxNIQ0d3rg", "text": "After reading all the reviews my boyfriend and I decided to go today (10.9.11) and omg it was the bomb!!!!!. I highly recommend Hong Kong Buffet..if you go you must try the craw fish, sooooo good!!!...I give this place 6 stars! Yum-o!", "business_id": "-Ogv7rpcgUHkFaSy3vD8Sw", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-10-09", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "chI2p-ROg2tXI2-tT2_G2A", "review_id": "KhbMBHQaEi12NsacutpkLQ", "text": "A great Asian buffet. They have a sushi chef in the middle ready to make any kind of sushi roll on the spot. They even offer brown rice options too. (Although my brown rice california rolls were a little harder than I would like)\n\nThey have your typical Chinese food options like Orange chicken, crab puffs, string beans, lo-mein etc... There's a hibachi corner as well where you can make your own plates of stir-fry. \n\nThe dessert here is much better than Pacific buffet in Chandler. They have a chocolate mousse cake that was really yummy. I don't think they're homemade but still didn't taste old like other buffet places I've been to. \n\nThere's a bar as well but I didn't order any alcoholic beverages. \n\nMy husband loved the crab legs which are always a customer favorite so you have to keep an eye out for them.\n\nI would say they refresh the buffet items fairly quickly. I checked in on Yelp and even got a $5off discount!\n\nAverage dinner price is $16-$17.", "business_id": "-Ogv7rpcgUHkFaSy3vD8Sw", "stars": 4, "date": "2011-10-19", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "Z9vJfDNf_etNh4LBGC7AiA", "review_id": "JRc0RZmoH9wMpUI0jULO0w", "text": "Thank you Yelp. Yet another awesome place I would not have found without the help of yelp.", "business_id": "-Ogv7rpcgUHkFaSy3vD8Sw", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-11-23", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "5k2H2eT1LPbhdeOm2UWuqw", "review_id": "LW2EkpaNLfg3FkxDb63yhQ", "text": "This place was just half ass. $15 per person and it doesn't even include a drink is awful. They also don't RO their water and even a lemon couldn't make it taste right. The crab legs were tiny and didn't have much taste. NONE of the food was above 140 degrees as it should be. I had a plate of cold food every time. I'm surprised I didn't get sick. Such a waste of money. I will never go back and I will tell as many people as I can how awful it is.", "business_id": "-Ogv7rpcgUHkFaSy3vD8Sw", "stars": 1, "date": "2011-11-25", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "iWh7h24DpKWFtKZGl81kxg", "review_id": "Mp8M_etdy3Fxxl4wMVkEyQ", "text": "My brother suggested going here a while back for some reason, and I wasn't expecting a whole lot. The buffet-style dishes were the usual Chinese food fare, and they weren't bad at all. What I LOVED though was the sushi! There is an area where they will make you fresh sushi, lots of roll selections, and it's included in what you already paid. For the amount of sushi we ate, we would have spent a LOT more somewhere else, plus we got all the yummy crab puffs, noodles, etc. Going to try and go again soon!", "business_id": "-Ogv7rpcgUHkFaSy3vD8Sw", "stars": 4, "date": "2012-10-12", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "6TnX7mzI-jfgK6teWqIS9Q", "review_id": "Dzhs-J3KhXrqLV3iXO9eZw", "text": "Cold food (that should be hot) is the main problem. It was difficult to try to figure out what food was \"hot enough\" to be safe. I can imagine county health inspectors having a field day with a thermometer in there! The floor tile looked like a product of the 80's and appears grotesquely filthy. Another issue is that the Yelp $5 check in discount was not honored, despite asking two different folks. Service staff seemed quite disinterested in actually providing service. There was one gal who seemed to be more cheerful than the rest, but she was working another area. Would a welcoming smile and a \"hello\"kill ya??\n\nI would much rather to to pacific seafood buffet for the same price.", "business_id": "-Ogv7rpcgUHkFaSy3vD8Sw", "stars": 2, "date": "2013-09-26", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "eOkulidLueDT4PZQbKtaGg", "review_id": "kCttVnsbwOqXr7yyOpsphg", "text": "I thought this was probably the best buffet I've been to. Place was very clean, had a wide variety of foods. I am vegetarianand had a great selection of good available. I look forward to going back. .", "business_id": "-Ogv7rpcgUHkFaSy3vD8Sw", "stars": 5, "date": "2013-10-15", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "JTz1ccucKPe5g64PZ-gq4g", "review_id": "THn0Eg5Setu5svPaI4EDLQ", "text": "I love to eat at this restaurant. Food is always fresh and tons of choices for even the picky eaters. The staff is friendly and the service is always excellent. The prices are very fair for the quality of the food.", "business_id": "-Ogv7rpcgUHkFaSy3vD8Sw", "stars": 5, "date": "2013-11-02", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "HDbFhnRf9aFIoVnkeAEilw", "review_id": "rZwiPgMzMbrMcQNKooXmwQ", "text": "Customer service is okay. Food is alright. The oysters are always low on supply. Crab legs are okay, not so great. Better than Crazy Buffet's crab legs though. They do have a stir fry area and a sushi bar. I think sushi bar could be the best option or worse option for some people. I like variety and when getting a plate of sushi its kind of hard to finish it, but you know it hasn't been sitting there for awhile. They have raised their dinner price, so I'm not sure if its really worth it anymore.", "business_id": "-Ogv7rpcgUHkFaSy3vD8Sw", "stars": 3, "date": "2013-11-10", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "BEe04ziifpSkBdKsCSAUXA", "review_id": "QUNBm3gknzFIno4267MgrA", "text": "The food was okay. The selection was okay. The facilities were okay. Wife and I didn't feel the best for a few days after. \nIt had been a long time since our last vista. Probably had forgotten why. Now it may be coming back to me. Kinda like the meal we just has.", "business_id": "-Ogv7rpcgUHkFaSy3vD8Sw", "stars": 2, "date": "2013-11-11", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "xVPhxMatM0AOFcWvYDiGFA", "review_id": "9ywFh9uxHDaeBl0lh4Kk9g", "text": "The food is good we go here specifically for crab legs, frog legs and prime rib ,dinner around 16$ its worth it.", "business_id": "-Ogv7rpcgUHkFaSy3vD8Sw", "stars": 3, "date": "2014-09-20", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 2, "cool": 2}, "user_id": "zRnoNCqk0DG3iOQxtpVXug", "review_id": "llny3JtlN2GMIpVhMcwmIg", "text": "The family was in the mood to try a different Chinese buffet so after a little bit of searching on Yelp, we found this place.\n\nWe were a little bit nervous about trying this place because honestly, it can be a little bit of a gamble choosing a Chinese buffet in the valley but we decided to go for it and do the 45 minute drive. \n\nWe found the restaurant easily and were super pleased to find they were very clean (none of that ICK factor) and the servers were attentive and polite. They have fun seafood dishes and although they have nice looking sashimi and some cooked rolls already out, they also allow you to order sushi rolls (from a menu) that are made to order. They also have a mongolian BBQ type section but we decided to save it for another time. \n\nOur server was a weeeee bit slow on taking the dirty plates but he rocked on the drinks and had a great attitude, very friendly. \n\nDespite the drive, we're already looking forward to coming here again :)", "business_id": "-Ogv7rpcgUHkFaSy3vD8Sw", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-10-14", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "FDhuNO44wZ1i8bbckEivmQ", "review_id": "QAdi_hXsd79nHEJMvgtLXA", "text": "Horrible food!! Crab legs had a funny smell and weren't fresh. Definitely not worth $15.99. If you know what great food tastes like do not waist your money here: (", "business_id": "-Ogv7rpcgUHkFaSy3vD8Sw", "stars": 1, "date": "2014-10-17", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "tpiLcxjRR_3ahb8B5yEAnQ", "review_id": "xmMsg1GpznRircn9No-tEQ", "text": "Love Love Love this place. Moved to the far East Valley but travel to HFGB at least once a week. Very clean, friendly servers, no dirty carpets (restaurants should NEVER have carpet), food is fresh, sushi is a PLUS and made to order (not premade and old). Check it out!", "business_id": "-Ogv7rpcgUHkFaSy3vD8Sw", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-11-06", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "W_R-gVF8OHNrIhtmyhDnyg", "review_id": "Sn7ruc0CReEJSt-JcQc0Bg", "text": "At one time was my favorite Chinese Buffet in town but still can be good.\n\nIf you come here there are 3 must items. The fresh sushi that is offered, at dinner time the bbq ribs and the salt and pepper shrimp.\n\nThere is a good selection of sushi that you can order and will be made for you. My favorite is the dragon roll. As for the bbq ribs they are generally very meaty and tender with chinese bbq sauce. For my favorite dish hands down is the salt and pepper shrimp. You may think this is strange but I eat the shrimp with the legs and shell but not the tail. The reason is the shell has all the flavoring on it so if you take off the shell you may as eat it like a shrimp cocktail. Try it with the shell you will like it. \n\nThe lunch and dinner menu are very different with dinner having prime rib, bbq ribs and a few additional items.\n\nStill a good buffet especially when there are a lot if people so the food turns over so they are constantly bringing out fresh food.", "business_id": "-Ogv7rpcgUHkFaSy3vD8Sw", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-11-19", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "ljjmyEu-hnzKTTRCEo2nMg", "review_id": "zzWiwznyuxbKhbMtXjqLkw", "text": "Quick service and fresh food, good overall buffet. Better than most of the ones you typically find. Shorts rids were good.", "business_id": "-Ogv7rpcgUHkFaSy3vD8Sw", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-09-19", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "nBxswx4IggtYDIrZxF-aKA", "review_id": "wkLKwRRn_Xk-U1XW56qIBw", "text": "The food was cold and the trays were almost empty. Very disappointed in quality of food. It seemed like they didn't want to refill the serving trays so we got the bottom of the barrel on every dish. Not a good selection of food. Priced too high for lunch and the people who bring the drinks are not very friendly. The place was almost empty and it was lunch time. We will never go back. If they can't serve hot food and lots of it, then they can keep their lousy food. We felt kind of sick to our stomachs and I think that was because the food was not kept at the right temperature. Stay away and find some other place.", "business_id": "-Ogv7rpcgUHkFaSy3vD8Sw", "stars": 1, "date": "2015-10-07", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "RISX8TTaamg68vljYFRn5A", "review_id": "4FG6PMzGQlQeRa0pMgvpPg", "text": "I went with my family at 4 oclock this Wednesday afternoon. For $15.99 a person, I would assume that the food would have been more fresh. It seemed as if all the food had been sitting for over an hour under the heated lamps getting soggy and slimy. I was not impressed with this visit at all~ our server was also not very visible even though we were the only family there. We ate over half our meals without any refills. Again, for $15.99 a person, I would rather bring my family to other nearby buffets that prepare fresh food and provide outstanding service. Barf.", "business_id": "-Ogv7rpcgUHkFaSy3vD8Sw", "stars": 2, "date": "2015-10-07", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "vwEHW0d307Ij8LITCXcnyg", "review_id": "B1zSL0sl4uXpb9IQTN-9mg", "text": "We went for crab and sushi...6'1, 200lbs teen can put away a lot of food. So not worth it...sushi is billed as order and made fresh, we that's true, but all rolls are full D with fake crab salad, no matter what you order and none tasted fresh. The crab legs had boiled for so long that shells were mush and crab tasteless. I would only give one star, but must admit our waitress was attentive and polite, restrooms clean.", "business_id": "-Ogv7rpcgUHkFaSy3vD8Sw", "stars": 2, "date": "2015-11-07", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "beVjhT1mHXUxXhdSsk-f0Q", "review_id": "DJyQ5TdA5MddsMIPlVSM6g", "text": "Food was very good and consistent with the other times we've eaten at Roy's in other cities. But the wait for the food took a LONG time! This restaurant is located inside the Marriott resort. Beautifully decorated with indoor and outdoor seating.", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 3, "date": "2009-09-12", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 2, "cool": 2}, "user_id": "eURDQ5lE3Csox2pix41Y7w", "review_id": "bNHoDG2lwOJs8twV-BLuaw", "text": "Roy's is a perennial favorite on my hit parade. When restaurant week occasioned itself upon us, I saw Roy's on the list and said let's go!\n\nThere are two things that make for a great restaurant: 1.) product (the food), 2.) process (the experience).\n\nFrom the moment we walked in the place, every single member of the Roy's team went out of their way to make us feel like royalty. Secondly, the moment we sat down, a very deliberate system came into play that leaves you feeling very well cared for.\n\nThis is what the experience should be like! The setting was beautiful, and the food was out of this world.\n\nAnd....of course...the chocolate souffle. If it were possible for one's mouth to experience an orgasm, Roy's chocolate souffle would be the ticket.\n\nGreat job Roy's!", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 5, "date": "2009-09-28", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 8, "useful": 8, "cool": 7}, "user_id": "wHg1YkCzdZq9WBJOTRgxHQ", "review_id": "JmvNZJX0yEcVi8X_w6ctTQ", "text": "Technically, Roy's is outside the northern boundary of which I would drive for a meal, but since it was to be a free meal and I wouldn't be doing the driving, how could I say no? It is a chain, but in Roy's defense, the majority of the menu items are created by the local chefs with only a portion of the menu available at all restaurants. Roy's is billed as Hawaiian fusion, but my first thought was \"oh no, there's sushi on the menu, I won't like this place.\" I am happy to say I was wrong. Don't let my husband read this. He thinks I'm never wrong.\n\nMy husband also always says I'm stuck in the 80's, so I ordered the 1988 cocktail (grapefruit and pomegranate with a grapefruit vodka and lychee liqueur). Since I was the lone drinker, I stuck with one, but could have easily had 2 or 3 more of these, especially with a little Duran Duran background music. \n\nWe started with Roy's Canoe Appetizer for Two, adjusted for three. It includes lobster potstickers and teppanyaki shrimp, both of which were really good. Also on the boat were Thai beef satay and spicy tuna roll, neither of which I tried. My husband vouched for the tuna roll, however.\n\nNext up was the grilled endive, apple, and bleu cheese salad with pomegranate vinaigrette. If you're a salad lover, you would probably love it. If you're a salad hater, you would probably love it, too. For my entree, the pancetta crusted Alaskan halibut with tomatoes and chevre, mushroom ravioli. This, too, was fantastic, although there was a little too much oil on the plate, maybe from the pancetta?? But the fish was nicely prepared and the ravioli was excellent.\n\nMy husband insisted on the chocolate souffle which must be ordered at the start of your meal, but due to a glitch with our pregnant server needing a bathroom break, it didn't get put in early enough. We waited and were given a starter dessert on the house, and both the server and the gal who forgot to put the order in both profusely apologized. Hey, I would gladly welcome another screw up if a second dessert was involved. The souffle was lick your plate good and the blueberry tart (I think that was the name of it) was incredibly good as well. So good, I may have to break my driving rule and have dessert there again.\n\nProbably 4.5 stars, but I'm feeling stingy today.", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 4, "date": "2009-10-17", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 2}, "user_id": "kmjYN9Hi1Q8nPGcElxXi7A", "review_id": "ePj02g8BGtoldcogDPARKQ", "text": "When it comes to eating at restaurants owned by famous chefs there is a chance of being let down. Maybe it's the high expectations, the even higher prices, or just the wait that comes with going to a high profile restaurant. I'm pleased to say that this time the experience matched the expectations and I had one of the best meals I have had in years. \n\nMy mother is in town from Oklahoma and we sat on the patio and with the weather starting to cool was great. There was a fire pit, many torches, and a guy playing acoustic guitar which set a nice relaxing atmosphere. \n\nWe had the bento box, and the California roll for appetizers. the roll was good and the crab meat was fresh. but the bento box was great. It has braised short ribs, pot stickers, a couple pieces of spicy tuna roll and shrimp skewers. The ribs had a nice balance of teriyaki and smoke and came right off the bone and were delicious. \n\nMy mom got the butter fish and I had the Roy's trio which had butter fish, salmon, and tuna. All three fish were excellent and well seasoned but that butter fish was amazing. It was my first time to have the fish and it was buttery, had zero fishy taste and was just delicious. \n\nfor dessert we shared the blueberry tart with lavender ice cream. Again, just great. the blueberries were ripe, the ice cream was creamy and refreshing, and the presentation was superb. \n\nin conclusion, i have nothing bad to say about Roy's. I think if I had to use a word to describe the food it would be balance. Everything plays well off of each other. \n\nMy mother said it was the best meal she has had in years and I have to agree. The bar was set high, but Roy's knocked it out of the park.", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 5, "date": "2009-10-24", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "bkmXk6OVwyjcqPbmbPCk9Q", "review_id": "y31kRjMBbaap_M8Z0Z1Xeg", "text": "When my husband and I were thinking of a place to celebrate our wedding anniversary, we thought of Roy's, since we were married in Hawaii. It was one of the best decisions that I have ever made. This was one of the best dining experiences that I've ever had.\n\nFirst, their Aloha hour drinks are delicious! I could feel the warm ocean breeze as I sipped my Hawaiian martini and my hubby drank his Mai Tai (for only 5 bucks! Everything on the happy hour is only $5). We dominated the happy hour. Everything was delicious, especially wagyu sliders and the ahi roll. YUM.\n\nFor dinner, I had the sea bass which was AMAZING. The husband had surf and turf- lobster tail and filet mignon. It was cooked and seasoned to perfection.\n\nFor dessert, we had a rich chocolate cake that they brought to us for our anniversary. We had the best time.\n\nThe service was outstanding. We sat at the bar and had a wonderful time with our bartender Larry. Since this Roy's was inside a hotel, it had a great, relaxed atmosphere.\n\nWe've since been to other Roy's locations, and they were NOT as good (even the Roy's in San Fransisco!). I can't wait until we can go back!!! If you get a chance, come here for Aloha hour. You will not be disappointed.", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 5, "date": "2010-09-04", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 3, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "gOV8nHj7JIKHoBUJKHZPuw", "review_id": "U8uRclAClQSkydvkkzfgQg", "text": "I'm a slacker and didn't get any reservations in to the local restaurants I've been wanting to try for Arizona Restaurant Week. However, when I gathered some friends to decide on a night out, Roy's still had plenty of openings (not necessarily a good sign, but they have a large dining area). Now, I've been to Roy's a few times and they never disappoint, but I've been VERY spoiled with local, fresh, non-chain faire lately, so I wasn't expecting much.\n\nThe choices for restaurant week were quite good. I started with the scallops, which were a bit bland, but good quality scallops and veggies. I also had a Cucumber Basil Collins... the cucumber basil combination is my current favorite for cocktails and this held up quite well. My petite filet showed up and everyone commented \"oh, it's so cute!\" That's code for \"it's tiny!!\" However small the steak, the poblano mashed potatoes had a balanced kick, the red wine sauce brought the filet up a notch, and I was perfectly satisfied. What was supremely killer was the flourless chocolate souffle. I had remembered that Roy's does dessert like nobody's business, so I ordered a little glass of extraordinary port (Justin's Obtuse; I was excited to see it on-hand!) and went into fully food-induced orgasm mode. One touch from the fork and the souffle exploded with a flood of chocolate goodness, which went perfectly with the ice cream and drizzle of berry sauce... only to be elevated by the richness of the port.\n\nFood aside, what impressed me most about Roy's was the service. Every member of the staff greeted us as we entered and departed. The host graciously offered to have the bar tab transferred to the table when our entire party arrived. Our waitress was full of personality and provided incredibly detailed descriptions of each dish. And when dinner wrapped up, they even offered to have our valet cards validated and our cars brought around front for us... nothing tops off a beautiful evening like having your car waiting out front when you finally decide to meander outside.\n\nWhile I'm a confessed food snob, we'll certainly visit Roy's again... and it may become a special treat for happy hour now that the weather is nice; the cocktails are top-notch, their specials are a good deal, and the patio at Desert Ridge looks divine!", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 4, "date": "2010-09-26", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "ZUUeGcB1GCmZZYimuXrwCQ", "review_id": "Ao7wOXAhG6nhEzVCysAoqw", "text": "Haven't been to Roy's in years and what was i thinking? It was sooo good. We went for restaurant week but added on some items. Started with their speciality Hawaiian Martini, very pineapple, good but liked the wine list and the choices more! We had the calamari as an extra app before we did the pre-fix menu. YUM! Then had the scallops, so good but very small, maybe b/c of the restaurant week special. My mom had the tomato and aspargus, simple but good. i then had the petite fliet cooked to perfection!!!! Mom had the trout said it was great! She kept thinking it was Salmon though....i stole some of her cous-cous, sooo good. We finished with the flourless chocolate cake. So rich but so good. I bet if i could have the ice cream with it it wouldn't be so rich, but who cares! Over all a GREAT meal. Mom said best she had all restaurant week.", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 5, "date": "2010-09-27", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "mk57018kISC-jSaSu1zSsA", "review_id": "tD_iJjhVjV4EKnFNi-y0jA", "text": "We were staying at the Marriott Canyon Villas and went to Roys for Happy Hour. Between 4:00 - 6:00 Roys has a great Happy Hour. $5.00 drinks, including their Hawaiian martinis and $5.00 appetizers. We had lobster pot stickers, tuna sushi, and California rolls. All were delicious. I've never eaten a meal at the restaurant but if you want a nice little buzz and a pretty full stomach in a lovely environment on a pauper's budget, this IS the place. Don't miss it if you are nearby.", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 4, "date": "2010-10-04", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "_82TcFsa-3NjW9s3LAJA6A", "review_id": "NeqRuz_-sQ1-ms1KbaNJYQ", "text": "Although Roys are everywhere, I never had an opportunity to go until recently when we were vacationing in Arizona. \n\nI love this place! When we arrived, we were early enough to catch the tail end of happy hour which means that for $5.00 each, I got to try the Hawaiian martini, lobster potstickers, and cucumber and cilantro martini. Everything was so damn good!\n\nOnce we sat down, we received edamame, compliments of the chef. I wasn't a huge fan of the seasoning on it. I kind of prefer rock salt.\n\nI ordered the surf and turf for dinner. Again, it was amazing, although the lobster was lobster claws, not a tail, which was kind of disappointing.\n\nFor desert, we ordered the molten lava cake, which was phenomenal. I would definitely go back!", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 5, "date": "2010-10-12", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "9-HYfV6NlnYgGk8s0wywJg", "review_id": "DEilJt0uTPBBRN-baJ0tiA", "text": "I always enjoy going to the JW Marriott Desert Ridge so we decided to stop by the hotel and have a drink by the fire after dinner. We found a spot outside Roy's patio area. Their outside firepit area gets a \"5 star\" but it's hard to give the staff that waited on us any type of compliment. We waited at least 10 minutes before anyone even noticed us and there were plenty of servers outside. Our group had to flag a waiter down to wait on us only to tell us, \"he would find someone\". After another 5 minutes we had to just about \"beg\" someone to take our drink order. When the waiter finally took our order he acted like he was doing us a favor. The cosmos were good but servicde is something to be desired.", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 2, "date": "2010-11-19", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "eXiHAxrnvE64j4wTEOTEMQ", "review_id": "RQWa8LbLKuNUtrGO8101MQ", "text": "We love Roys. The service is usually outstanding and the food is wonderful.The ambience is nice and usually pretty hopping on a Saturday. My water glass is constantly being refilled because the people Roy's employ are totally on the ball. We have dined here 8+ times over the past 2 years and have never had a mediocre meal. They also have a delicious vegetarian menu if you ask your server. The wine list is comprehensive and they are known for their creative cocktails.We have dined here on both special occasions and regular Saturday nights. It is kind of like being on vacation when we go since it is located in the gorgeous JW Marriott. ...definitely in my top three Phoenix area restaurants.", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-09-05", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 2, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "D-7TJBhuTW_CllRyzA6A8w", "review_id": "0a13NWlP_OKJ7k8IxlHp1A", "text": "I have been eating at Roy's from Coast to Coast for 12 years and this was the WORST experience ever. The server was rude, impatient and very unorganized. Someone in my party asked her for something and she said \"Remind me later.\" Really? Then the guy filling water litterally spiled water into my Dad's lap TWICE. The expediter, when he brough our food, told someone at out table with a shellfish allergy \"don't worry, none of our seafood is fresh. It's either frozen or canned.\" Then, the busser clearing empty plates dropped a dirty, sharp knife right in my lap! What a comedy of errors! Our bill was over $300.00 for COLD food, out of a can and it was for my birthday which of course was runined. If you plan on spending this kind of money...Go to Flemings. Way better everything", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 1, "date": "2011-09-14", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "Up6DnMZnFw2RRjZHkt9Fug", "review_id": "TGHSsS96-M6yjYMw24_wAA", "text": "This was our second stop for restaurant week. I wanted to go to a chain restaurant after the experience we had at Noca. ( i know its sad to say I wanted to visit a chain) I had a feeling we wouldn't be disappointed. We had a reservation at 6:30 and arrived a little early so we decided to have a glass of wine in the bar. We were greeted immediately and our wine was great!\n\nWe were then whisked away to our table. We had a really friendly server and we ordered our meals right away. I had the clams with chorizo. It was delish! Will had the pork and although it looked to be undercooked it also tasted amazing. \n\nThe main entrees we had were the steelhead trout and the flank steak. Both were awesome.\n\nThen came the dessert. Will was in an adventurous mood so we ended up having 5 desserts. Our two favorite by far were the pineapple upside down cake, picture posted soon. (worth the 20 min wait) and the chocolate souffle cake. \n\nAll in all great food and great service! Would definitely go back for a second visit.", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-09-24", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "6zEFOuST_nA3vkKMj9BQ3A", "review_id": "w601ubYEpDAWQvotaet-tQ", "text": "went to roy's last night! O.M.G.!!i had the roy's trio & it was great! the cocktails were awesome too! u have to try the 1988 its so awesome!", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-09-25", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "55bCAA6mn6iF8yBkQvsxvg", "review_id": "NDkUoy8rI_kZTCMAAdG1DA", "text": "We were staying at the JW Desert Ridge and decided that we didn't want to ride out to look for a restaurant after a long day, so we went with Roy's, a no brainier since all we had to do was dress up and go down stairs.\nWhen we arrived we asked if we could sit outside, good decision, it was cool this night and they had the fire pits and torches going, great ambiance under the stars. My wife and I had the salmon and the Mahi Mahi, these were both great choices. Don't remember what we had for desert but it was something chocolatey, this was suggested by the waiter, and very,very good choice.\nI have to say this was up there with some of our favorite restaurants in Phoenix.", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 4, "date": "2011-11-18", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "1dR97Rdc2lqSPWuVf_Jo1A", "review_id": "8_VqwwKnBK90hu5AN2ifuQ", "text": "Worst birthday experience of my life. \nThere were eight of us who came from the resort pool to the patio for Aloha Hour, then dinner. First we were told that the patio was closed (on what had to have been the most gorgeous evening of the summer.) That's fine. Inside, it's a little too fancy for our pool-wear, although all but one of us had coverups. So we are decoding what to do, when a server tells us we are dressed inappropriately. We say that we know...we were going to eat on the patio and now we are just standing there deciding what to do (ps the restaurant is completely empty except for about five servers who are glaring at us.) \nWe go back outside where my elderly father needs to sit down for a moment. Normally after a chilly reception like that I would have left immediately, but my dad can't walk very far, the rest of the party is hungry, and we had really been looking forward to Roy's. \nThe server comes outside where we are standing (except for my dad who had to sit down) and confronts us. I explain that its my birthday, that we have been loyal Roy's customers in Hawaii and here, and that we just want to have a nice meal. I explained that we weren't trying to offend anyone and that there really aren't any other customers to offend right now any way. She tells me that I'm being rude and that she is letting us know about the dress code because she doesn't want her manager to see us and come confront us (so instead she does the honors, I guess.) I am so astounded by how outright MEAN this woman is. It baffling. She looks like she's early 50's or so...you think she would know how to handle a dress code concern better. \nSo the manager comes out, tries to smooth things over, tells us we're all dressed just fine except for one of our well-behaved kids, who needs a shirt with sleeves. Reminds us that there's a sign that says that too (expert managers always point to the policy) Tells us that we won't have that woman as our server. She'll give us \"Debbie, who is fantastic like me.\" Okay. Ha ha. Come in. \nWe get $100+ worth of appetizers and drinks because the full menu is not available yet. Debbie the server is fine. We watch the sun go down through the window. The only good thing about sitting inside is the fantastic live music by Jared Blackstone. There is also a a very nice server named Tanner, who had brought my dad some water while we were standing on the patio. He comes over and apologizes to us because he has witnessed this whole thing. He's a class act. Kudos to him and I hope he can get a job at an establishment that values service as much as he does. \nThe manager never came back by our table. We didn't stay for dinner. Instead we walked across the resort to The Blue Sage, where we enjoyed a great meal on the patio on a gorgeous night. \nThe experience at Roy's was one of the all-time worst I have ever experienced in my life.", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 1, "date": "2012-09-09", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "DAc_YiB9iKyrRawHQ2-v2g", "review_id": "xgo8zrjdSX4vqq_lAtJltA", "text": "butter fish is great!", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 4, "date": "2012-09-15", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "CtuoM6_Im-xBZMAqPKMQ8A", "review_id": "BpK1PLSpq2efJvmGJkhg5g", "text": "We went to Roy's for a midweek dinner & it was so crowded we ended up sitting at the bar. No problem, they serve the full menu.\n\nUntil the end of September they have a combo plate available that features both the butterfish & beef short ribs for $30. It's the perfect amount of food & a great choice to be able to try an option from both land & sea. I got to try a bite of the mahi mahi which I will definitely order next time. \n\nVery good service & a beautiful restaurant!", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 4, "date": "2012-09-23", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "8n--xRBQ9eLDi0vpQ5fGFQ", "review_id": "6ExO3PXJ4J395Ux889Ernw", "text": "My hubby and I have been fans of Roy's since our first time at the flagship location on Oahu . . . and we've watched him expand to the mainland. Our experience with the mainland Roy's have been hit and miss, but the Marriott Desert Ridge location pretty much knocks it out of the park! We went at the tail end of Arizona Restaurant Week. We really liked the menu options for this special week, and the warm chocolate souffle cake is always out of this world . . . If that was the only thing that tasted good, then we would feel we got our money's worth . . . but we didn't have to worry about it because everything was perfect from beginning to end.\n\nWe had an adorable server who had a great personality and excellent people skills. She was unassuming and let us linger between courses. As I am a stickler about food coming out too soon after just finishing one course, this was just perfect! And so relaxing. The ambiance on the patio, which is where we chose to sit, almost felt as if we were on one of the islands, not in the middle of the desert . . . with the tiki torches lit and the sound of the babbling water features throughout the resort, it came pretty close . . . it was just missing the trade winds. The resort had a band playing as well . . . they were pretty good, a few ups and downs. I would have loved if the music was a little more subtle than the pop-jazz mix they were playing . . . oh, but I have digressed. \n\nMy hubby and his daughter chose the restaurant week menu. Hubby had the Grilled Szechuan Spiced Pork Ribs Smoked & Glazed in Roy's Original Mongolian Sauce. A bit cliche, but they were finger lickin' good! My step-daughter and I shared the Crispy Spicy Ahi Sushi Roll with Ginger Wasabi Beurre Blanc -- it was huge and almost a meal. The rolls were fresh, crunchy, and had a little kick . . . not too spicy. It was a good thing I agreed to help her with it! For entrees, my hubby had the Roy's Original Hawaiian Blackened Island Ahi with Spicy Soy Mustard Butter Sauce. It, too, was an ample portion of tender ahi that was complimented by the sauce but no overpowered by it. My step-daughter had the Roy's Roasted Macadamia Nut Crusted Mahi Mahi with Maine Lobster Essence. Another nice portion of perfectly cooked Mahi. We all were starting to feel the aloha spirit . . . I had to be the exception by ordering off the regular menu and chose my most favorite entree of all . . . the Hawaiian Style Misoyaki Butterfish . . . Aah, what a delight, so melt-in-your-mouth delicate . . . I was in island heaven.\n\nDesserts were total home runs -- the melting hot chocolate souffle is mandatory for any chocolate lover. In fact, it tastes the same at every Roy's we've been to . . . it never disappoints. A total surprise . . . and a delightful one . . . was the chocolate coconut cheesecake which came with a side of mango sorbet . . . or did she say it was pineapple sorbet . . . whatever . . . it was the perfect accompaniment to the light and fluffy cheesecake.\n\nWe also ordered a bottle of Newton claret which was a modestly priced wine and as my husband said as he swirled and sipped it . . . \"I know my wines . . . \" Having to always be the exception, I ordered the he Original Hawaiian Martini, which was what I considered my dessert. It was a juicy combination of Maui pineapple, vodka and coconut rumMMMMM!\n\nIt was truly a beautiful evening from start to finish. You may be asking why I didn't give it five stars then if there were no misfires . . . that five star is reserved for Roy's Hawaiian restaurants that really do create the aloha experience with some special touches only that can only be enjoyed there!", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 4, "date": "2012-09-23", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 2, "useful": 2, "cool": 2}, "user_id": "zfysCL-0uQNCWdGvzZ6QWA", "review_id": "0syiqZmp2mhd8UNQy7Dxxw", "text": "Sunday nights are not overwhelming. I doubt this place is ever empty, but at least it wasn't packed! Great service. Thanks, Bruce! \n\nAs good as the butterfish is, I loved the lobster!! Served in the shell, butter poached, the best I have ever had!! \nGet the surf & turf, it is worth it! Filet was cooked perfectly!!\n\nIn general, I noticed how the servers were very knowledgeable with what temperatures the meat & fish should be cooked too, and the chefs prepared everything with excellence. \n\nLobster california roll was nothing special. \n\nHibachi salmon was good, macadamia nut mahi mahi was good.\n\nInteresting spice on the edamame.\n\nThe portions are not huge, but they are reasonable and enough food. Pricing is appropriate for what you get as well. \n\nNice plus is that if you don't prefer what the meal comes with, you can sub the sides and there was not an additional charged as I had feared. (subbed rice & bok choy for truffle cream corn risotto-it wasn't for me, but it was prepared very well.)\n\nDefinitely a great place for celebrating.\n\n$5 valet with validation. It's the JW Marriott, not Red Lobster, so we were happy to have someone bring us our car.\n\nService=5, Ambiance=5, Quality/Taste of Food= 5 Stars\n\nI greatly look forward to going back!! I had my eye on those lobster potstickers!", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 5, "date": "2012-11-06", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "AeUo3ffdNgUjlN_YOprTJg", "review_id": "YtMTCcbz6mda_rwh5DF_pg", "text": "While I initially was disturbed by the Los Angeles prices for dining in Phoenix, i have to say I thoroughly enjoyed my meal. Parmesan crusted swordfish was cooked to perfection. The risotto upon which the fish sat was outstanding. I was even pleasantly surprised by the seasoning on the micro green salad served alongside the main course. The starter salad with creamy herb dressing was fabulous. Service was impeccable and the restaurant manager visited with us to verify as much. My dinnermate remarked that the pork katsu was delicious and fried perfectly.", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 4, "date": "2012-11-06", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "z3vAotAqQhYhliFFoSqD2w", "review_id": "VkY0qgosrIQMKXuSEZjUlQ", "text": "Butterfish and chocolate souffle are pure heaven!", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 5, "date": "2012-11-21", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "bjXaipdkJvgXtoVdyykANw", "review_id": "UbTzchkwJc75DyVwyAd9FA", "text": "Food was okay, service was bizarre. Numerous people swarming the table to retrieve plates and cutlery, infrequent visits by our server. Our server was completely disinterested. We ordered an appetizer, two salads and two entrees. Appetizer never came and the waitress never mentioned it. When she finally appeared we were almost finished with our entrees, I told her to disregard bringing the appetizer. She blew it off in such a weird way that I asked my husband if she heard me. He assured me that she had because she mumbled something about being sorry and then went on to talking about desserts. Very strange. It took forever to bring the check even after we asked for it twice. The food was good but not great. The lobster meat was so small it looked like a scallop and the salads were a joke. Not going back. Overrated just like the hotel itself.", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 1, "date": "2013-09-08", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "Tmmzj1_OTuoKqCS4Kn5Cdg", "review_id": "TGpVYrFvBs5D5exDguBrmQ", "text": "Delicious", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 5, "date": "2013-09-21", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "bSL66nqoduKBPMqwCtpsVw", "review_id": "KG7P0kBPb5uTgSgeOnsSkw", "text": "The Butterfish is phenomenal! Great for special occasions.", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 4, "date": "2013-09-23", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "yEZi8RHf99fdrtqVB8KS0w", "review_id": "z87u9PgkoayxVEqLcMVyoQ", "text": "Roy's is in a beautiful setting. We enjoyed eating out on the patio on a pleasantly cool October evening. Unfortunately the food was not that great. I had Roy's trio with a salad and my husband had the Ahi with a salad. There seemed to be something wrong with every dish: their simple salads were completely one note and salty as can be, the bok choy with the tuna had no flavor except strong mustard, my mahi mahi was the driest I have ever had, the salmon was fine but nothing special, the butterfish would have been delicious except they put a little pico-de-gallo like garnish on top that didn't go at all--I'm still scratching my head over that one. Really I would like to give Roy's 2 1/2 stars for the nice ambience, tasty butterfish, and nice sauce that was served with the dry as a bone mahi mahi, but for the price we paid for mediocre at best food, 2 stars is what they get.", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 2, "date": "2013-10-20", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 7, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "l-lsMu4y9fmF2up6Ny1qOw", "review_id": "9IrvfdgWjvllh4JiUmaCrQ", "text": "We have eaten at Roy's all over...IL, AZ, CA, HI. Since Outback has bought them, the food has denigrated to average to below average to poor. And the waitstaff has become inattentive at best. \n\nAte at the Roy's in Desert Ridge at the JW Marriott in Phoenix. Sat outside where it was a beautiful evening. Had to ask the waiter for any specials. \n\nWife and aunt ordered seafood trio of butterfish, mahi mahi and salmon. Butterfish, their signature dish was mushy and tasteless, not dry and flaky. Mahi was dry. Salmon not cooked thoroughly.\n\nI had the scallops. Three sea scallops over something non-descript. Not even any rice or veggies. Delicious, but a small portion for over $30. \n\nUsually, midway during the meal the server asks if anyone wants a lava cake or upside down cake, as it takes time to prepare. This time nothing. After finishing the entrees, server comes over and asks if anyone wants dessert, then omits the upside down cake from the offerings. I had to remind him. \n\nEaten at Roy's oodles of times before, but now its a very pricey Outback. Awful and won't be returning.", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 1, "date": "2013-10-25", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "1vTrZWdItYXd9cTvNhZ-Rg", "review_id": "wdLbI13WmLVqAyvOJPa1_g", "text": "I have had good food at Roy's before, but the quality reminded me a bit of a snooty Applebee's this time. The pot stickers had been under the heat lamp way to long. The Ono was promised at medium and served at well. Service was ok. JW Marriott deserves a better on property kitchen! 11/21/13", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 2, "date": "2013-11-23", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "pcmS1Obk07xieOR7foJI2Q", "review_id": "2KMUrI5Sj6wR3SdRcXZviw", "text": "Absolutely loved it as always. The food was great although the Cesar salad was a bad luck for me. The waitress Alex was fantastic. Love this place.", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-09-11", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "AgRQq4syFH-Bc4hz9QQFfQ", "review_id": "qxeDCnwjc7oLDt9MgKpHcg", "text": "From the hostesses to the waitress, everything was just wrong. This was my first time in this location, and it will be my last. They need lots of training in customer service and guest satisfaction. They think they got it, but leaving someone standing at the entry without acknowledging, and sitting them next to dirty tables, and waitressses that look at you all weird and managers that respond like if they are so important that they cannot have \"bread\" because they are too \"elegant\" is not really nice service.... It is not!", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 1, "date": "2014-09-18", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "iDs7lAKcEwU1T8aCpEuflg", "review_id": "3Zzd17PMMJ5lIZaa7Xx7WA", "text": "Had the grilled fish combo...it was amazing. I also tried a friend's rib-eye steak. It was cooked perfectly and all it should have been. The fried rice was a great side to try as well. \n\nWe went with a big group and it was the perfect atmosphere for us. The service was great. I have been to other locations and had the same experience. Love the food and great atmosphere.", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-09-29", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "1EG1rCmfnvUzwjXWlecQ7g", "review_id": "eLnlgLhFGhsYrkpiZ-z8VA", "text": "Had the red dragon shrimp with a side of the Korean spicy chili rice. Shrimp was bland. Rice had not flavor and no spice. Very mediocre meal. Had an apple desert where they fire roasted the apple. Was nasty. Didn't eat it. Dinner for two was $100 with one glass of wine. Was worth maybe $25 max. If your desperate for Asian food and stuck at the JW Marriott order delivery and avoid this place. You'll save money and have a better meal.", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 1, "date": "2014-11-01", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "qxGFaSKKh3lmWBoYbrC8ag", "review_id": "79wS9fMal370dD9fyJ12Sw", "text": "I agree with previous review. Butter fish was awful. Onion rings tasted like cardboard. Thank goodness it was happy hour prices otherwise we would have let the mgr know how awful the food was. We will never return!", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 1, "date": "2014-11-22", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "gnJQg0JC5pR9nw_GmECsHw", "review_id": "ziEYXRCYwe14wL02wg9PGg", "text": "Took the wife and daughter for a belated birthday meal and it was WAY more than we ever expected it to be. Service was impeccable and the food incomparable besides to the islands themselves...looking forward to our return visit, my mouth is already watering!!!", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-11-26", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "4smtIzCUCt9fcCLapMomyg", "review_id": "3Q-TEKkSuVtaxqRgnjTVKQ", "text": "We always try to go to Roy's\nThis one is within the Marriott Desert Ridge resort. Great local chef selection menu and the regular menu. Great sites on the property. Great service", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-10-21", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 5, "cool": 2}, "user_id": "rylKeW9X7_RzMTbsisN58g", "review_id": "vwFrK5arcxvuP-0FJvqtbg", "text": "Canoe Appetizer for Two\nThai Peanut Chicken Satay, Vegetable Spring Roll, Szechuan Ribs Spicy Tuna Roll, Kim Chee & Shrimp\n\nVery tasty with a nice variety, plenty of food for two\n\nI'm disappointed in the spicy fried rice it tasted very dry & no flavor \n\nThe spicy tuna rolls were Devine ! Lots of flavor & very fresh \n\nThe spare ribs were tender & fell off the bone \n\nI'll be back for another dessert ah the chocolate souffl\u00e9 was awesome", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-10-25", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "rotKO3R8h23YbiLFaZ-BLg", "review_id": "qa62lNv5oYTGwQd2zhaOgQ", "text": "WOW!\nMy wife and I were so impressed with Roy's.\n\nFirst of all - the ambiance. The resort is gorgeous, and sitting on the patio is a wonderful experience. I would definitely recommend doing that when the weather is nice, and then walking around the resort after dinner.\n\nSecond - the service. Exceptional, from the hostess to the server assistant to the server to the Manager who came by to welcome us.\n\nThird, and most importantly - the food. Delicious. We had the Gyoza, the Wagyu Beef Meatloaf, and the Mac and Cheese, and we ate up every last bite. We also really enjoyed the complimentary Edamame that's brought to the table in place of bread. Much healthier. :-)\n\nOverall, this was an incredible first impression. So impressive that I'm shocked that Roy's overall review score isn't higher. Take my word for it. Check it out, and...\nENJOY!", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-10-26", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "j9f4auAI-hA29widGlMOdg", "review_id": "RZRGVI7-kjxep2LHde5oQw", "text": "Amazing customer service. Everyone was so friendly. It was super refreshing.\n\nThe current reviews are not giving this place the credit it deserves. \n\nExcellent service, excellent execution on our entrees.\n\nSome nice extra touches by a complimentary photo, and birthday desert for my fianc\u00e9e. \n\nGreat job guys!!", "business_id": "corPOxxIBRJ7DSpryYvorw", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-11-13", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "mlBC3pN9GXlUUfQi1qBBZA", "review_id": "MdYaNVIaiJHhd8cVR7fCAQ", "text": "The food at Mcgrath's is not bad but I do get the impression that a lot of their food is not very fresh. Ive been there for dinner before and then had their soup and salad lunch as well. The dinners I have had were not memorable (to be honest, I cant remember what I ordered). However, they do have a really good crab and artichoke dip on their appetizer menu. Their sourdough bread that is complimentary is pretty tasty as is their clam chowder. The lunch salad is pretty large too with all the fix-ins along with a large mound of bay shrimp making it above your average side salad. I am a fan of their spicy ranch dressing as well. I did have their apple cobbler once and remember it being one of the best cobblers Ive ever had but that was years ago so who knows what its like now. In any event, I do think some of their food is yummy but the stuff I think is yummy is pretty basic. The service is not very good for a restaurant that has been almost empty each time I have gone there. It seems to take too long to get soup and salad and there have been a few times when our crab dip was completely forgotten and brought out after we received our entrees and were already full. I really want this place to do well because I think they have potential, however, I have a bad feeling that McGraths will eventually be a distant memory. \n\nA Sidenote: For the person that said if you like Claim Jumper or Crapper Barrel, you will love this place because its your typical corporate chain. I don't agree with this at all. I love Claim Jumper because the quality is very good, all the food I have had there is beyond average, and the service is always great. Honestly, I am so sick of people dissing on chain restaurants. Obviously, they got something right in the beginning to become so successful and grow so much. Yes, some of these restaurants are lacking in quality now but some, such as the Claim Jumper are going strong. It shouldn't be about whether the restaurant is a chain, it should be about the food! And I have had many good meals at chains: ie Charlestons, OG, and Claim Jumper! The funny thing is that all you chain haters have had at least one meal you enjoyed at a chain restaurant, don't deny it.", "business_id": "6Ry-gjGqApTSRZkfdYlLmw", "stars": 3, "date": "2010-10-31", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 3, "useful": 4, "cool": 3}, "user_id": "wRRVIAIo8AbdayfvWky7jg", "review_id": "Qllg2BHfv26m3UQqdNTAhg", "text": "Went to dinner here last night. I loved the Quartino option for the wine for only a few dollars more! The Lobster ravioli wasn't the best, but the dish my bf got was awesome, I just don't remember what it was called, but it was also a ravioli of some sort. The bread was yummy, hot and soft, just how I like it! And the waiter was prompt and polite. I can't say one bad thing about this place except for the rude customers at the bar who were raising hell over not being able to split the cost of a SOUP between two checks. The fact that they were being so loud, we knew every detail about their situation was a little annoying considering we had to put our own conversation on hold because of the disturbance. \nBut that's neither here nor there... and has no reflection on my opinion of the restaraunt. And I'm definitely a Fan. ;)", "business_id": "k-KhKfLPjBxjSHppWoUyOA", "stars": 4, "date": "2009-09-04", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 2, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "EoTooNBcxu0Hy0-XeZI8aw", "review_id": "rMiQvR5h_kbS2xMme1W_bQ", "text": "Carrabba's is a treat for me. I know it's a chain. Believe me, I know.\n\nBut usually most restaurants that are chains are chains for a reason - they're good enough and consistent enough with enough appeal to many eaters.\n\nThis is the case with Carrabba's.\n\nMy friend Cathy ordered the Mezza Luna - ravioli that was stuffed with some yummy ingredients and a tomato cream sauce. She let me have a couple of pieces and I let her have some of mine. I ordered the Rigatoni Martino - chicken, sun dried tomatoes, mushrooms and a creamy tomato sauce.\n\nIt was lovely. Really lovely.\n\nHowever, an hour after dinner, I was developing this unholy thirst. Like, I needed water, NOW. I guzzled a lot of water after - about 3 liters, but I was *still* thirsty. I noticed my rings were a bit tight on my fingers.\n\nUggh...it was too salty. Mercifully they didn't use MSG, but I hope they will cut back on the salt. Even as I write this almost 24 hours later my fingers are still swollen. :(\n\nService was A+, food was good, company was good. All in all, a great dinner with good food.", "business_id": "k-KhKfLPjBxjSHppWoUyOA", "stars": 4, "date": "2009-10-11", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 3, "useful": 4, "cool": 3}, "user_id": "wRRVIAIo8AbdayfvWky7jg", "review_id": "PtpfW8bgfMUfwyIGevww4g", "text": "It's ALWAYS a good night at Carrabba's! The staff is awesome, and I found my new favorite dish, the Pollo Rosa Maria. All I can say is DELISH! The wine is a little pricey, but it's worth it to sip with dinner, I just love this place...", "business_id": "k-KhKfLPjBxjSHppWoUyOA", "stars": 5, "date": "2009-11-09", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "_jNXQZR4RVDSk9QTNuoLKw", "review_id": "1niAZU3tPYLh32cGvsA8wA", "text": "This place is a must-dine every time I'm in the valley for a couple of reasons. I really enjoy the fried calamari, which includes rings and tentacles (some places don't) and it's a major step up from the Olive Garden, another Italian chain which is right down the road.\n\nI am giving the place five stars for a combination of excellent food and really outstanding service. Our waiter did a great job and had the timing down real well. At this place there are bartenders, waiters and food runners so you have to keep that in mind when it's time to tip. Generally all three have a hand in what arrives at the table. That being said, it's a challenge to keep them all in order and this Carrabba's has it down to a science.\n\nI had the Lobster Ravioli entree which was extremely rich, made with a buttery white sauce. The ravioli were not scant. For apps we enjoyed the calamari and mussels in garlic white wine sauce. Bread pudding was the dessert.\n\nThis place is a solid bet for a great family meal on the weekend.", "business_id": "k-KhKfLPjBxjSHppWoUyOA", "stars": 5, "date": "2009-11-17", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 2, "useful": 3, "cool": 2}, "user_id": "uzeuP7sGm7Ez8TSIVtI9rw", "review_id": "m0DsCj0PrtvExZFYTjyZnA", "text": "Carrabba's has always been one of my husband and my favorites. We're always assured to have a good meal and good service, but tonight they were over the top! We went in to celebrate our anniversary and they treated us like royalty. Our waitress, Amanda, was exceptional right down to recommending an excellent bottle of wine. The food was delicious and Chef Bryan stopped by to check up on us several times. After the meal Amanda delivered a huge slice of chocolate chiffon cake with ice cream for our anniversary (compliments of management), and Chef Bryan threw in a glass of port wine to top off the chocolate...yum! If you're looking for an exceptional meal with excellent service you can't go wrong with Carrabba's. Highly recommended for special occasions. This will be one anniversary we won't soon forget because of our special night out. Thank you Carrabba's!", "business_id": "k-KhKfLPjBxjSHppWoUyOA", "stars": 5, "date": "2010-09-13", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "BaBmllMUQRuaspPoy6-05Q", "review_id": "edvmtGhzxylUU6mI6hG4wg", "text": "On November 17, a couple of friends and myself went out to dinner at Carrabba's Italian Grill. The only other time I've ate Carrabba's was at a banquet for our swim team my junior year of high school, so needless to say I was pretty excited about having dinner there finally.\n The moment we pulled up I could taste the melt-in-your-mouth Italian bread from its scent lingering heavily in the air. As we entered there were two hostesses, both with cheerful, smiling faces, ready to seat us. Unlike most hostesses that I have run into, the one who seated us was chatty the entire way to our booth. Personally it made me feel more relaxed and able to enjoy what was about to come.\n After a few minutes our server, Randy, walked over to grab our drink order. He was very nice and knowledgeable of the menu (although he could never get any of us a refilled drink before the previous one was completely empty). My friend was going to order the Mezzaluna, a ravioli with chicken, ricotta, and spinach in a delicious tomato sauce; however, Randy suggested a rigatoni that was similar to the one she had chose. The rigatoni was loaded with chicken, unlike the Mezzaluna, which had a quarter of the chicken this dish had.\n I, on the other hand, couldn't be talked out of my manicotti. Although the crisp, freshly baked Italian bread and Caesar salad were to die for, I, unfortunately, couldn't say the same for their manicotti. The noodles were undercooked, making them hard to cut and there was not an adequate amount of mozzarella cheese melted over them. Their pomodoro sauce was bland and added very little, if any, flavor to the dish. Also, it was a lot smaller than I had hoped for. There were two measly manicotti shells in an oval shaped bowl the size of a kids macaroni and cheese dish.\n Overall, the experience was fairly a good one. The waiter could have been more attentive to our needs, such as bringing over fresh drinks before the old ones were almost three quarters gone. There could have also been larger portion sizes for the price of the meal. Up to that point I might have gone back and given it one more chance. As we were leaving though, the head chef was walking through the restaurant and asking everyone how they were enjoying their visit and the food. It was something I have never seen a chef do in all the years I have been going out to eat. I admired how the chef was walking through the restaurant interacting with his customers when the place wasn't exactly slow. He walked by everyone's table asking how the food and service had been. I will definitely go back at least one more time.", "business_id": "k-KhKfLPjBxjSHppWoUyOA", "stars": 3, "date": "2010-11-29", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "uzeuP7sGm7Ez8TSIVtI9rw", "review_id": "LSEbT-RzPGPZiQs8Ri1fjA", "text": "Always our favorite place to go for any special occasion. My husband and I went back again for our 35th wedding anniversary on September 13th and again, Carrabba's did not disappoint. Awesome food, good wine, romantic atmosphere, and excellent customer service.", "business_id": "k-KhKfLPjBxjSHppWoUyOA", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-09-16", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 2, "useful": 3, "cool": 2}, "user_id": "NAohdbmsThewbeUkMMBohg", "review_id": "iXp4sGjnK_1fgP4AuSBz_A", "text": "I hadn't been here in years and it was much better than I remember. The manicotti was excellent, great salad, good bread, and great service. Good atmosphere. The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars was because the portions (although plenty) are not what you would get at most italian restaurants in this price range.", "business_id": "k-KhKfLPjBxjSHppWoUyOA", "stars": 4, "date": "2011-11-05", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "kOd6su9mJ8HjZyUcLLETWw", "review_id": "QD-KDKGQdxfKi3Ti0ueZTA", "text": "Went in there this past Wednesday evening. Bartender had no personality-but had plenty when talking to two ladies who were obviously employees. The three of them were talking about other employees and not in a complimentary way. We came in to forget about work but all we heard was the Carraba's employees complaining about their work and fellow workers. \nAnd one last note - $5.25 for 12oz beers is insane! Won't be back anytime soon!", "business_id": "k-KhKfLPjBxjSHppWoUyOA", "stars": 2, "date": "2012-10-05", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "2uEl52VevS2XewKmE9ODtg", "review_id": "erPUTEoBkNlPdUNX7RFPaQ", "text": "We eat here fairly regularly and have never been disappointed. The Chicken Bryan is very good especially with spinach as the veggie. Their steak is tasty and the pasta dishes are done very well. A great place for a nice meal.", "business_id": "k-KhKfLPjBxjSHppWoUyOA", "stars": 5, "date": "2013-09-26", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "71-whNReTU-1TnZcpXyoXw", "review_id": "b41tDmCo830QBKmGXTnVwQ", "text": "This was my first time here and the service and food were very good. My son had the lobster ravioli and I had the seafood cannelloni both were very satisfying. I had salad with the creamy parmesan dressing yum my new favorite dressing. Looking forward to dinning here again.", "business_id": "k-KhKfLPjBxjSHppWoUyOA", "stars": 4, "date": "2013-10-23", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "jfL9EqM4nSTMV7mt_i2nuQ", "review_id": "O97sCENeZTsfLopcX4-DHA", "text": "Sure tell the snowbirds are back. Wow it's packed and everybody is having a blast. Sicilian chicken soup is sooooo good", "business_id": "k-KhKfLPjBxjSHppWoUyOA", "stars": 5, "date": "2013-11-02", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "EdzShKuqF1PnZoaTRTooEQ", "review_id": "bRe6QluX9asJNiFDFucqrw", "text": "One of my favorite restaurants ! Pricey but worth it for special occasions such as birthdays or anniversaries. They provide bread and make you a wonderful and tasty plate with Olive oil and spices . So good! I normally order from the grill menu. I have had the shrimp from the grill (wonderful) , the halibut soaked in a lemon butter (my FAVORITE) , chicken Alfredo, and I also have had the steak. I have never ever had a bad meal here or bad service . I normally order a glass in a half of the Santa margarita Pino Grigio another one of my favorites and the chocolate moose for dessert! The perfect ending to a perfect meal! Bon appetite!", "business_id": "k-KhKfLPjBxjSHppWoUyOA", "stars": 5, "date": "2013-11-30", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "jVI_4Olm6Jw0pMmjKPiFSg", "review_id": "Gv1YA9KuIQ38mTo-mFFKQQ", "text": "We love this place. Definitely something for everyone!\n\nOur son enjoys the calamari. \nOur daughter fills her appetite with penne. \nMy husband likes their cesaer salad and chicken bryan. \nI divulge in their tiramisu. \n\n\nAlthough it was a rough start, they staff and exceptional food makes up for it. The Manager is top notch, and our waiter, Spencer went above and beyond to make sure we were taken care of. \n\nWe definitely will be back. So should you...", "business_id": "k-KhKfLPjBxjSHppWoUyOA", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-09-01", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "C5hDZleIfHtcXS9p4ZYBuA", "review_id": "th7sbmCPEeVBXeABXXWhxA", "text": "Really good for a chain. I love the Sangria", "business_id": "k-KhKfLPjBxjSHppWoUyOA", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-09-17", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "h8ZgSCXM6xOhcKFhhaUqQA", "review_id": "uwGJslIdKV-IQXvOTJamwg", "text": "By far, my most favorite Italian restaurant. Service is awesome. Bread and dipping oil - yum. The proscutto wrapped pork tenderloins were scrumptious.", "business_id": "k-KhKfLPjBxjSHppWoUyOA", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-10-21", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "Qvr5glP5aUctOvUbBWVKVA", "review_id": "pQyOB8JK3eDs7eSQae25_Q", "text": "I love Carrabas and know some of the cheeses are salty but I do think some items are too salty. I like salt but not that much. However the food is delicious and waitstaff very attentive.", "business_id": "k-KhKfLPjBxjSHppWoUyOA", "stars": 3, "date": "2015-09-12", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "4FctybqhkT-vnv4C8v9ydA", "review_id": "NawI1kzW-GnphAAFa-SJGw", "text": "The Filet Marsala is the best. Always a great dish and the side of mashed potatoes is a must. As a chain about as good as it gets and it's clean with friendly staff", "business_id": "k-KhKfLPjBxjSHppWoUyOA", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-09-18", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "iRrm79lV-OW2Plybl7H_bg", "review_id": "x4yPqx5S76NG4E8a2Lqvqg", "text": "This place is always so attentive. Have been coming here for years and Danny is great! He is friendly and always smiling! The food is the best! With Martin behind the line you can't go wrong!", "business_id": "k-KhKfLPjBxjSHppWoUyOA", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-10-17", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 2, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "-S8RAIPZILHbA7kswmRDQQ", "review_id": "WKRtjoXBULCJu-NeBwCWiA", "text": "My wife and I are snowbirds from Vancouver, Wa. and have been going to this restaurants for years and have always enjoyed the food and the service. Recently we were in for dinner and found the menu had been changed AGAIN and some of our preferred dinner selections had been eliminated. This was disappointing. We also noticed that the cocktail prices have become excessively high. I ordered a top shelf Bourbon Manhattan and was charged $ 16 for the drink. How can you charge sixteen dollars for a drink when my entree was only fifteen dollars. I have never paid that much for a Manhattan not even in fine dining restaurants in downtown Portland..Had I noticed this charge on my check before I left I would have had a discussion with the manager. So if your stopping here for dinner make sure you enjoy the food but watch out for the cocktail prices. We won't be going back there anytime soon. There are so many other restaurants in the area with more reasonable prices......Tom & Myrt", "business_id": "k-KhKfLPjBxjSHppWoUyOA", "stars": 2, "date": "2015-11-09", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "gtDvG6OQvaX7R2SHGOdfXg", "review_id": "JqMFKYfEaTSf7Vpxx-9YaA", "text": "This was horrible! My husband ordered the lobster ravioli and you would think it was a kids meal. I ordered the margherita pizza and it was soggy and crust was terrible. I wished I could leave no stars. My first and last time at this place. Very disappointed!", "business_id": "k-KhKfLPjBxjSHppWoUyOA", "stars": 1, "date": "2015-11-15", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "wqI3DGobFOraRIGoWsL8Rg", "review_id": "v2_GX8yDtsPJbbFmNGtlkQ", "text": "Stopped in for dinner after my father-in-law got into town. Little bit of a wait but well worth it. Lisa took great care of us--excellent service. Thanks so much for a delicious evening!!", "business_id": "k-KhKfLPjBxjSHppWoUyOA", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-11-20", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "0jGPMGP5urtuzBDsq3i02Q", "review_id": "Zjw6oTzncO63Rsu3TcGmbw", "text": "Just had a supplier bring us lunch today from here...some of the freshest seafood authentic mexican dishes you can get...4 locations throughout the valley...haven't been inside but our supplier says it's just like you were in Mexico..little hole in the wall and people coming in trying to sell you stuff like wallets, buckles and more...will definetly try to dine in some time in the near future...loved it..", "business_id": "Pakx91l3dyreVU91sP__9Q", "stars": 5, "date": "2009-10-08", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 2, "useful": 4, "cool": 2}, "user_id": "rb5IeRBjDKOWC77_ecA5kA", "review_id": "2FhXSlT5q31YXaNlKhaL-g", "text": "If you're not Hispanic or look Hispanic you might turn some heads going into this place. Speaking or at least understanding Spanish would also be a plus as the menu is mostly in Spanish with a little English to help out the Anglos a bit. \n\nThey have a juke box with Mexican music that was playing very loud , so loud that I was tempted to leave when I first walked in but I'm glad I stayed. \n\nVery authentic Mexican food and the portions are huge. Service was fast and friendly even after the waitress found out I don't speak Spanish?", "business_id": "Pakx91l3dyreVU91sP__9Q", "stars": 4, "date": "2010-11-12", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "aUaFJNtr-1_O0LySctsPiQ", "review_id": "aKV9oGszLqf-O4JLBI-mDQ", "text": "This is one of my new favorite restaurants! We went last night and had an amazing meal with friends. It's so authentic that you will want to bring a friend who speaks spanish along with you. But you can get by with only english and so don't let that stop you from going.\n\nThe atmosphere is kinda divey, but still pleasant. Beautiful, colorful murals on the walls and loud mexican music. There were mexican soap operas playing on the TVs....not what I wanted to watch, but I am not their avg client!\n\nI had the fillete de chef and it was PHENOMENAL! baked fish (flounder? it was so buttery and smooth) topped with octupus (perfectly cooked) and shrimp (slightly tough) in a wonderful, light-tasting cream sauce with bacon in it. Wow, I just loved it. Had leftovers for lunch today and it was great. \n\nMy husband had the shrimp bacanora (sp?) and it was divine. A wonderful cream sauce with Bacanora (an agave liquor). Highly recommended.\n\nMy other friends had shrimp in green chile cream sauce (excellent!) and a whole, deep-friend red snapper that was good but a little on the dry side. For appetizers we had ceviche tostada (excellent!) and the little peppers stuffed with shrimp and wrapped in bacon and bathed in a salty soy sauce (very good!!). \n\nI highly recommend this place. I can't wait to go back!\n\nAmanda", "business_id": "Pakx91l3dyreVU91sP__9Q", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-09-30", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "1WMpiFX4oNeET9SXszBSwQ", "review_id": "5JaK7H2OxEozYbE-OZIolQ", "text": "If you like authentic mexican seafood - than this is the place. The seafood tastes fresh, I haven't had anything I did not like. The food is really good, definitely a place I recommend.\n\nHowever, the area is questionable - I've never had an issue, but you do get an uneasy feeling. Also, the service is not great, this might be because the place is always so busy - it seems like your waiter/waitress is running all over the place. Definitely be prepared to wait for a table on the weekends, sometimes for 30 minutes +", "business_id": "Pakx91l3dyreVU91sP__9Q", "stars": 4, "date": "2013-09-09", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "baVSiKQRkOOj1FZdc-1Epw", "review_id": "Pkpn2PKKG2u9RWq55X2e7A", "text": "Seafood rocked! Good portions, service, and fast delivery. If loud music is not your thing, you won't like this place. I found it fun and mood lifting.", "business_id": "Pakx91l3dyreVU91sP__9Q", "stars": 4, "date": "2013-11-02", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "jD20vPRPHApRcKAFiqcIwg", "review_id": "Rzhm8ypG8utkXP6eDc2zfQ", "text": "One must overcome the look of the neighborhood and it's neighbor \"soup kitchen\". I used to volunteer at this \"soup kitchen\" and the street people are not a danger to this neighborhood. The restaurant is a large and open room with about 10 booths and 20 tables, an aquarium and loud loud Mexican music! Did I mention it is loud? Five or six waitresses, friendly, helpful and patient rush about serving the quests. A Friday early evening, my wife and I were the only non latinos in the place. The food was as beautiful as it was excellent. We ordered shrimp quesadillas (9.99) and a deep fried whole red snapper in garlic sauce (13.99) both excellent. The portions were huge!! The snapper was 12 to 14 inches long! I have taken off one star for the overly loud music. The bathroom and restaurant were clean and service was good. We will surely return! Perhaps with ear plugs :)", "business_id": "Pakx91l3dyreVU91sP__9Q", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-09-20", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "-yCwmk_KB_Wibi8z19sbDQ", "review_id": "aADk8upp77h3SSn2iBgbZw", "text": "El Sinaloa is one of the best places to get mariscos in the valley.\nI have to warn you though that the place is very loud. There will be loud music and even louder people. \nI love it!", "business_id": "Pakx91l3dyreVU91sP__9Q", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-10-19", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "7knTjXA1lNJw7AMIIJi4YQ", "review_id": "svlNi81oINd6gojBLeGMdQ", "text": "Went to Restaurant Sinaloa with my wife today. Usually this is the kind of place we would drive right past and not pay attention to. We did this many times for this restaurant. Well today we went to this place for dinner.\n\nMy wife ordered the arroz marinero (seafood rice). I ordered the coconut shell cocktail of shrimp, oysters, and octopus. Both were very good. My wife and I were impressed. We will definitely return here. \n\nDo not let the outside of the building or the neighborhood put you off. This is a place that we want to do well and stay in business.", "business_id": "Pakx91l3dyreVU91sP__9Q", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-10-31", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "iUX1GMdNdR-oGR9hpImtVQ", "review_id": "S3vwGdyv8WI_4UOxHwVsYw", "text": "Completely love this restaurant. The seafood is absolutely wonderful. It's fairly big inside and get packed full of people. The service is friendly and the environment is lively with vibrant Mexican music.", "business_id": "Pakx91l3dyreVU91sP__9Q", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-09-11", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "Ix6Xiz3cx5tceCun369FNQ", "review_id": "E2IFKNle7i1Kn6CClAtocA", "text": "It's been awhile since me and my husband have been here, We ordered our food got our drinks it very quickly Took about 25 minutes to get our food my husband ordered the shrimp cocktail, I ordered the octopus and garlic butter the shrimp cocktail shrimp were overcooked soggy and had no flavor, My octopus plate was very tough the rice was cold beans were cold and the potatoes that came with it were also cold not satisfied with today's dinner, overall I will never come here and eat again.", "business_id": "Pakx91l3dyreVU91sP__9Q", "stars": 2, "date": "2015-09-19", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "IMv_X7ZX6REcveiiJq3cJA", "review_id": "_p_QmMMd548Xr84aWQ572w", "text": "Our family frequently visits this location, we never had any issues before our last dining expirence. We ordered the deluxe oysters, served with shrimp; hindsight shrimp should be consumed only when thouroughly cooked. One hospital visit later, benadryl and antibiotics we now know not to order this dish again.", "business_id": "Pakx91l3dyreVU91sP__9Q", "stars": 1, "date": "2015-10-07", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "b3YjT_Umvra_BMRFzSKaiQ", "review_id": "Q8oF9LteScWcVwmCrS2byw", "text": "This used to be one of the best restaurant in town but lately the service takes forever and it seems like the food is not as good as it used to I mean if you want to go make sure you have enough time to wait for your food to be ready because it will take a while but I mean not the best but not the worst in town", "business_id": "Pakx91l3dyreVU91sP__9Q", "stars": 2, "date": "2015-11-08", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "5BFx4Nm7S0K7iA0AjFBx0w", "review_id": "Gtcacp13-GRPNvtHH18LsA", "text": "Buenisiiiimaaa comidaaaa!!!!\nTodo lo que he comido esta en sabor de primera calidad, las meseras muy amables.\nTostadas ceviche de camaron y los caldos son mis favoritos.", "business_id": "Pakx91l3dyreVU91sP__9Q", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-11-23", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 3, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "1qEWNA1otqI-0vW9BJ41_Q", "review_id": "aaqrym0a9euG_ejFbPbm2Q", "text": "oh, endless shrimp, how i love you!! \n\nthe in-laws, my husband and i hit up red lobster after checking into the hyatt place in mesa. \n\njenna, our server was very nice. she brought out all of our drinks and provided refills (very important) throughout our meal. \n\ni really liked the parmesan shrimp, linguini, scampi and grilled garlic shrimp. mmmmmmm i ate way too much.\n\nwish we had a red lobster on kauai!!", "business_id": "k8q3ypIoIzchdp3RoRUsJw", "stars": 4, "date": "2010-09-30", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "tozhcHsAWG2Zc-5Q7ubatQ", "review_id": "ftnAnS-SXE7n0hgCgqDc2A", "text": "I'm going to have to say no. The waitress was great, too bad the food wasn't. I ordered the lobster, shrimp and crab legs, potato and rice. I was hungry :-) The restaurant was about 3/4 full and it only took a few minutes to get food. When it did come it was cold, yuck and everything was drenched in butter and salt. My tongue still hurts due to the volume of salt. The lobster tail was as rubbery as a burned steak. I probably shouldn't have eaten it. I remember Red Lobster used to be good for sea food. This is no longer the case.", "business_id": "k8q3ypIoIzchdp3RoRUsJw", "stars": 2, "date": "2011-09-05", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 2, "useful": 2, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "-O8exEPYgJ6tjHD7sB2QRw", "review_id": "Fv384SbtAnopX6KU7Zhscw", "text": "I love Red Lobster's endless shrimp and delicious biscuits however, I'm sitting here writing this review at my table because I've been here for an hour and a half so far and have yet to get my food! Drink refills are impossible to obtain because our server can't figure it out. In fact, he disappears for 20 minutes at a time without resurfacing from behind the kitchen doors. I couldn't even leave if I wanted to because I can't get my check! I'll update my review with food reviews if our food ever arrives...", "business_id": "k8q3ypIoIzchdp3RoRUsJw", "stars": 1, "date": "2013-09-14", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "RmiR-4M-OkQXuMdL1yyFGA", "review_id": "eFJ4OocGOHr1wikoOio3eA", "text": "This place is a disaster! The restaurant was dirty, they ran out of lobster, the manager was a total jerk... I can't think of a single good thing to say about this place.", "business_id": "k8q3ypIoIzchdp3RoRUsJw", "stars": 1, "date": "2013-10-11", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "BkfSAOkPo2a1jq0aNA8Llw", "review_id": "7KhYMwEwZwqHhcv5rLnZhQ", "text": "Horrible! We moved here from San Diego and red lobster was one of our weekly restaurants, so you could imagine how disappointed we were to have such a bad experience here at this local red lobster. I guess that's what we get for going to a seafood restaurant in the middle of the desert.our waitress was great.very nice and attentive.the food was terrible. we ordered an appetizer and a salad which came out at the same time.which would not have been so bad except the entrees came out two bites into the salads.so need less to say we had to choose whether we ignore our appetizer or our dinner.our appetizer went cold.i would have spoken up, but the manager walked past our table 7 times ignoring us every pass.but yet he spent the entire dinner 4 tables down talking to some guests that I could only assume we're his friends. all this could be ignored if the food itself wasn't so bad.i will not be returning to this restaurant and I will make sure to advise any of my friends, family or customers to steer clear of this place as well.", "business_id": "k8q3ypIoIzchdp3RoRUsJw", "stars": 2, "date": "2014-09-01", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "_Q4Ks28-Jks-TjFT-YXw_A", "review_id": "XAxYIWn9kSQ7Vx4cITRykA", "text": "Of Course, Endless shrimp. Doesn't get any better! Try them all!! Come early, there will be at least a 20 minute wait.", "business_id": "k8q3ypIoIzchdp3RoRUsJw", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-09-12", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "gtDvG6OQvaX7R2SHGOdfXg", "review_id": "rmstKiFiaE1TkECx0AHKug", "text": "Horrible services! I will never go to this Red Lobster again. I well drive the extra miles to get better services Very very disappointed :( we always leave a tip for our waitress or waiter no matter if it was bad services but this time there was no chance she was getting even a penny. Just horrible", "business_id": "k8q3ypIoIzchdp3RoRUsJw", "stars": 1, "date": "2014-10-25", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "NVXPBmCYsYgafAndpYazsQ", "review_id": "-K4KcuFbqqRWE6oRtZpn2w", "text": "I love this place and the food but the service today here at this location kind of let me down. Took us about 40 mins to get entrees and we are currently waiting to order dessert and are sitting here for about 15 mins now. We ordered the seafood trio shrimp and New Orleans salmon which were good but seems as tho we were in an area where no one cared to check on us.", "business_id": "k8q3ypIoIzchdp3RoRUsJw", "stars": 2, "date": "2015-09-05", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "Ij4pGoO1ve8qZvqTVL5dbg", "review_id": "n-3obNsRCatpxsTWRvpTKg", "text": "Came for a corporate event & the service was good. But everyone's food was shit. Salmon was dry & not seasoned, veggies were undercooked & not seasoned, fries were not seasoned & had been sitting, mashed potatoes had pockets of WTF SALT, Ceasars salads were inconsistent by lacking cheese or HEAVY on mayo or with wilted lettuce. Such a disgrace. Our company deserves better than this. I can't believe they paid for this crappy food. I wouldn't recommend this restaurant since their kitchen staff leaves A LOT to be desired.", "business_id": "k8q3ypIoIzchdp3RoRUsJw", "stars": 2, "date": "2015-09-20", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "BcbTj3roVK_zbH8kVnFBcg", "review_id": "3n9I-3CCW9ZOLHXEeoIOyg", "text": "Really good food enjoy seafood here are waitress was pretty slow where we sat back in the right corner. But food came out in a good amount of time no issues from me for the kitchen they did a awesome job with hiw busy it is here.would come back again but maybe new waitress really dont see here much our talk to us much", "business_id": "k8q3ypIoIzchdp3RoRUsJw", "stars": 3, "date": "2015-09-26", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "7FhH6XuNmMS8YD6eBuUVRw", "review_id": "YLhV2NT3t9ilfNy6V6tJmQ", "text": "They have gotten a lot better over the years. Good service and food was great! Very pricey from what I remember a few years ago so won't go here much.", "business_id": "k8q3ypIoIzchdp3RoRUsJw", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-11-24", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "DSOTdn8XZ9RzV47gMUhp7Q", "review_id": "LBtWwghwoB_f1pID_0wjmA", "text": "This restaurant has a wide variety of foods from burgers to cheese steaks and much more. Really good food with wonderful views above the lake . Even the salads are great (for those of us looking to avoid all the fatty unhealthy things.) Who ever heard of great salads in the boonies? The unhealthly stuff at this place is the best and on equal footing with places anywhere. So are the adult beverages; A full bar with many interesting drinks. Our youngest Kris says \"the ice cream is to die for.\" It is and there are so many soft serve flavors to choose from. At least a dozen. This is the perfect respite for a hard day on the lake! The ONLY place at the lake, but still a great choice. Many places with a monopoly slide into mediocrity. Not this one. The food is tasty and the service is exactly right.", "business_id": "bpPVn4nF8YR40BjhO6YP1w", "stars": 5, "date": "2010-10-02", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "uo2nUXKtwnr4qHaEdQ9oQw", "review_id": "2T1aBvfUv5qoqmeMGG9n7w", "text": "This is the one of the best restaurant I have been too while camping in an RV. Typical RV resturants are bad in my experince. \n The hours there open are strange but the food typical was very good. I was surprised actually. I am looking forward to going back to Canyon Lake next year and eating here again.", "business_id": "bpPVn4nF8YR40BjhO6YP1w", "stars": 4, "date": "2010-11-11", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "FweZXFHxRf5--psIm39RNA", "review_id": "WUga4Xn6CyWRs03O5EiSEA", "text": "The WORST Service AND Food I have ever experienced!! The owner nearly forced a member of our family to drink a bloody mary that was way under par and when she kindly sent it back the owner argued that it was what she ordered and so she should drink it!! We were ultimately charged for the drink!! With slow service we finally received our food and the Fish Fry was awful: luke warm and chewy!!! \nCanyon lake is beautiful and the cantina has a great view but NOT Worth the agony that owner or staff put us through.", "business_id": "bpPVn4nF8YR40BjhO6YP1w", "stars": 1, "date": "2013-11-30", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "lWmO2snCHAWQPlP1Nx8wfQ", "review_id": "3VSVzpOt-eVpzzSHsTQyYg", "text": "My husband and I and another couple spent an overnight camping at the campground at Canyon Lake this past Saturday and figured why bother with cooking and all that with the restaurant right there. I'm glad we did. Yeah, the service is a little slow, but we didn't mind, the views are so pretty from the patio. We ate there three times and each time our server was so friendly. I think the one on Saturday was Teresa or Vicki (sorry bad with names) but we had her twice that day and she was so friendly. And in the morning for breakfast we had Adrienne and she was a sweetheart too. My breakfast was delicious, had bisquits and gravy, eggs and homefries. Yummy! I ate basic things the day before, hamburger, fries, dinner was club sandwich and it was all good. And I read in a response to another review about how they aren't in town so if they are short staffed, it's a little hard to fill the jobs and that has to be so difficult. I for one would not want to make that drive at night on that windy road to come home from work there. So yeah, you might wait a little bit for your order, but they make up for that in their friendliness and humor. We thoroughly enjoyed our time there and plan to do it again.", "business_id": "bpPVn4nF8YR40BjhO6YP1w", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-11-13", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "gqtKmTHz6549Z9NxJt4Ihg", "review_id": "DnzrirRvRpZ4k2WJ9CHXPQ", "text": "Still our favorite restaurant in the entire Valley. The freshest homemade food- always perfect, the ambiance & the true care & hospitality of the exceptionally kind owners are what draws us to this wonderful eatery. Absolutely 5 stars in every category.", "business_id": "bpPVn4nF8YR40BjhO6YP1w", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-11-20", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 3, "cool": 4}, "user_id": "TQ5eVGOFr_qB5_BbEd3Sow", "review_id": "8ztCHhky0Gor_9fzs5djkw", "text": "I've been here about three times and it is on my places to go list for when I visit Chandler. The first time I decided I should get the Redfish Plate because I figured it oughta be good since they are named after it. It was not a disappointment, in fact was one of the best fish dinners I ever remember having. I don't remember what I got the other times but know I enjoyed it. I like the decor and if I remember right, they gave me some Mardi Gras necklaces I still have. I will definitely go back next trip there.", "business_id": "ASxUPQGzDomkggD6S4brpg", "stars": 5, "date": "2009-11-16", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "FLdun6KWwAh-gC8VHVZGCw", "review_id": "dXtHX5dmwS1oOrBSWskbNQ", "text": "Pretty good Chinese food. Great atmosphere.", "business_id": "z4KFTJQsAdxqMZA7Fx0A9A", "stars": 4, "date": "2006-09-03", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "-iArS6zaHaXYjT20N1vXhg", "review_id": "RaglVa1UxfZP53_qTkMlqQ", "text": "I ate here for lunch today...am I missing something from all the rave reviews...\n\nI had the Chicken Lo Mein, the quality of the chicken and lo mein noodles is cheap, the hot & sour soup was okay but nothing grand, fried rice was plain, and the egg rolls weren't spectacular.\n\nMy dining companions had general's chicken, and mongolian beef...and they didn't seem to like their meal ither.\n\nOver all it was a 1 star, but the 2nd star for the price and the soup.", "business_id": "z4KFTJQsAdxqMZA7Fx0A9A", "stars": 2, "date": "2008-09-08", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 7, "useful": 3, "cool": 2}, "user_id": "K2TQ1HBU51Y8i6MCDI7gLQ", "review_id": "8q9xfYAuwYRCZvgDxl_PLQ", "text": "DIM SUM suckas! DIM SUM.\n\nDim Sum is the greatest thing to hit food since teeth.\n\nI have been holding off on writing this Yelp for months now. I just could not figure out a way to wrap my head around the awesomeness that is Dim Sum. I have been eating here pretty much every weekend since I was first introduced to it by fellow Yelpers Jenn H. and Scott S. Joe Crack played a role in the introduction as well. Joe Crack is not a Yelper (He should be though.) but he is a wizard. So you should be willing to take the suggestion of someone so wise in the ways of the world. He also coined the phrase \"No Goddamn BBQ pork bun!\" Which turns out to be a useful phrase when having Dim Sum, cause they try to shove that down your throat from every cart that comes strolling by.\n\nThe absolute greatest thing about Dim Sum is the ability to be eating awesome food within seconds of sitting down. From the moment you sit down they are coming by with carts of amazing, trying to get you to try everything from BBQ pork bun to Chicken feet. You could, if you were so inclined, be in and out of the place in 15 minutes and have a belly full of really tasty Chinese food bits. \n\nSome of my favorite things are:\nThe Chinese Broccoli\nThe Spring rolls\nThe Curry meat Triangles\nThe pot stickers\nAnd...\n\nMy absolute favorite is the Sticky rice. If you go to Dim Sum you have to get the sticky rice. It is a ball of rice wrapped in a lotus leaf. Then Jesus and Buddha get together and cry tears of joy over the amazing creation. Then Luke Skywalker and Captain Kirk bless it with a light saber and Tricorder. Then Kurt Cobain plays a misunderstood song over it. Then right before it gets to your table the entire restaurant does a rendition of \"Be our Guest\" from Beauty and the Beast as Pamela Anderson and Jenna Jameson deliver it while talking in tongues. \nIt is that good people.", "business_id": "z4KFTJQsAdxqMZA7Fx0A9A", "stars": 4, "date": "2008-09-14", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "_jjIaczpcVDpHlH6l334rQ", "review_id": "kD7fo2eBfpIWrjZ3Xl9EIA", "text": "Dim Sum mmm mmm good! My wife and I had to pretty much roll out of there...we ate WAY too much! The biggest problem was that you keep ordering more and more as the carts roll by. We've been back a few times for Dim Sum and will be going back again!", "business_id": "z4KFTJQsAdxqMZA7Fx0A9A", "stars": 4, "date": "2008-10-17", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "AWcwYAZyqZOheTNEwdAF8A", "review_id": "rhOFy_wkXY3sdvX5RIPHxQ", "text": "Used to go here often for dim sum and have enjoyed the experience each time. Although dim sum is served daily, I've only visited on Saturdays and Sundays. Gets VERY crowded after 12pm, so try and arrive by 11am if you want a chance at the fresher selections. \n\nLove their egg tarts, beef tripe, short ribs, mango custard, shu mai, sugar cane shrimp, and fried rice balls (with seasoned ground pork filling). \n\nBe sure to try and ask for a table near the aisles as sometimes it's hard for the ladies to maneuver the carts in between tables. \n\nPrices are decent for each dim sum item. We sometimes order a couple of dishes off the regular menu, to supplement the smaller dim sum items. \n\nSince PHX doesn't offer alot of dim sum options, C-Fu will remain my top choice for dim sum cravings.", "business_id": "z4KFTJQsAdxqMZA7Fx0A9A", "stars": 3, "date": "2009-09-05", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 3, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "Z-fvuSqI5SSiZUksPJ_QiQ", "review_id": "BoME6Og-Lb_y52eZmnVRCw", "text": "I use to go there every weekend for dimsum.\nI didn't mind waiting 30 min to get in, the food was good.\n\nBUT...one day I saw food from the cart dropped on the floor, and the manager came quick and put that food back in the plate and served....\nI could not believe my eyes.\n\nThat was the last day for me and C-Fu restaurant.", "business_id": "z4KFTJQsAdxqMZA7Fx0A9A", "stars": 3, "date": "2009-10-11", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 4, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "Z3qVl-1JgYnAe4py6VC5ug", "review_id": "5lczcragmBOtuaZHS2vkPA", "text": "This place is used to be my favorite Dim Sum restaurant, but I have not visited them for a while. It's not because of their foods. \n\nTheir foods is good and service is OK. It's their sneaky behavior at the register that bothers me. I don't know if they are still doing the same thing, but I just got pissed of once for all. \n\nHere is the story. \n\nI was at the cashier desk to pay my bill. The lady at the counter did not know I can understand Cantonese. So the lady told customer, who is a friend of her, that the 15% tips is already included in the credit card receipt as total. So there is no need to put tips in the blank tip line. \n\nWhat a shocking finding. If you don't calculate your total bill, you may be paying double tips! What a shame on them. I don't mind to pay 20% tips, but they should told their customer that the total number on your receipt already includes tips!\n\nI have not visited the restaurant since!", "business_id": "z4KFTJQsAdxqMZA7Fx0A9A", "stars": 1, "date": "2009-11-14", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 6, "cool": 3}, "user_id": "xdWsnbaTEfBMVHttqZDHxg", "review_id": "ZJNhqWit3OFk-H4hRlKqXA", "text": "SEVERAL years ago, this was the place to grab dim sum. But much better have popped up and the crowds moved on, and this fell to the wayside. You can tell easily by the lack of (Asian) customers.\n\nOn a whim, tried it again. Meh. Egg tarts were the best part, but there is so much better dim sum not much farther away.", "business_id": "z4KFTJQsAdxqMZA7Fx0A9A", "stars": 2, "date": "2010-09-02", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 3, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "6e7pZofhDuIlD_rX2oYirQ", "review_id": "4HPuhJrE1dQ4Gyp-2nzAEA", "text": "This place is sneaky!! They do not tell you that they include a 15% tip on your total for the check already. No mention of that. Our bill was $20 and some change, so my husband left a 4 dollar tip on the tip line and paid with a credit card. So I notice on our statement that it charged the $25 something and then a few days later, ran another $5 charge. So not only do they add on 15%, but they added it on to the total of what the bill was AFTER the tip he wrote in....so we paid another 15% of the bill plus the tip he wrote in. WHAT? I thought, what the hell is that???? And then I scanned some other reviews and saw that someone mentioned an automatic 15% tip added on. So beware of that and don't tip!! Your bill already has it in there.\n\nOther than that I did enjoy the place and the Dim Sum is decent, though I have not experienced much to compare with. The decor is dark, dingy and sort of run down looking. The place is huge. It's an adventure, and honestly, that part was fun, but the sneaky charges really left a bad taste in our mouths.", "business_id": "z4KFTJQsAdxqMZA7Fx0A9A", "stars": 2, "date": "2010-09-22", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "ToAdJfUZUy5E39kH8SGjRA", "review_id": "-a8-NrXmx5YXA-4T_h752Q", "text": "i don't know why most people give this such bad reviews, maybe it is just not new enough. The food is always great. I grew up in New York eating chinese food. The food here is authentic, not spicy in general - mostly cantonese style but very good. They will make your fried rice with bean sprouts and not carrots and peas if you ask. The Dim Sum is better than Phoenix Palace (we had a blind taste test at home after doing takeout from both). Service is always great. Mongolian beef is great, salt and pepper shrimp or pork choops are very good. try the duck Mu shu. my wife loves the orange beef.", "business_id": "z4KFTJQsAdxqMZA7Fx0A9A", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-09-10", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "pdIFSFGHq6Q2R-ROHfEUMg", "review_id": "h0q-jwHH2CxUmE4KZToLJQ", "text": "Best Dim Sum in Phoenix.", "business_id": "z4KFTJQsAdxqMZA7Fx0A9A", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-09-13", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "qGl1xfS0okKRbSH8vvucGA", "review_id": "S3UCZeI_TUQjBGv1Kb7_Vg", "text": "I've been meeting with friends here for dim sum for the past few years and also had dinner here a few weeks ago. The food is consistently quite good, affordable, and fresh. The service is generally quite good as well.\n\nMy bride and I held our wedding reception here this past weekend in the small private room at the back of the dining room. The service and food were great and our guests enjoyed the dim sum adventure, a first for many of them. Fun and affordable!\n\nThe fun part is we'll be able to return to our reception restaurant with our friends anytime we like.", "business_id": "z4KFTJQsAdxqMZA7Fx0A9A", "stars": 4, "date": "2011-09-15", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 2}, "user_id": "C1rHp3dmepNea7XiouwB6Q", "review_id": "901ncBO-62WcurtBew-BKw", "text": "Love the dim sum on Sunday afternoons. Always end up bringing home a lot of leftovers as the little carts full of delicious food keep strolling by. Dim sum is a great way to try a variety of foods and this is a great place for it.", "business_id": "z4KFTJQsAdxqMZA7Fx0A9A", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-10-21", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "e4miJMyDfV0yYjZTnruDGA", "review_id": "yxldcS4lIQR858aLRrbU9A", "text": "Avoid on weekdays if you want Dim Sum!\n\nThe last two times I went there I left after sitting at a table for 20 minutes with no food. Sometimes a cart would go by - a different table. \n\nNo amount of hand waving or imploring looks would do any good.\n\nYou couldn't drag me in there kicking and screaming on a weekday again.", "business_id": "z4KFTJQsAdxqMZA7Fx0A9A", "stars": 1, "date": "2012-10-11", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "OzZJGW8RR1owsIcZSUkFGw", "review_id": "E3UR7vvpjbGcM2h6V3c5aQ", "text": "C-Fu Gourmet has been wonderful. They have so many options it can overwhelming, but they answer all your questions. Every time I go there, I ask to make sure that there is no fish, shellfish, animal product in their sauces, and they are honest about it and offer vegetarian substitutions which is always nice. A little bit on the pricier side but always worth it. Their bird's nest dish (veggie style) is my absolute favorite. It's a bowl made out of dried noodles with steamed vegetables and sauce inside.", "business_id": "z4KFTJQsAdxqMZA7Fx0A9A", "stars": 4, "date": "2012-10-12", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "Bmzq_nkjYqp8aWn12RJdhA", "review_id": "nx7dyAI5W7Zd_-LbY-yiZg", "text": "I've been to C-Fu on numerous occasions. We even had our rehearsal dinner there and the owner was very courteous and did a great job delivering us a custom menu.\n\nRecently, the day after my brother's wedding, we had a huge party and were thinking about all going out to dinner, we decided to call up C-Fu and they told us that there wouldn't be any waiting at all. They quickly took care of us all and then we all decided to hit up the bar and do karaoke. It was a blast.", "business_id": "z4KFTJQsAdxqMZA7Fx0A9A", "stars": 5, "date": "2012-10-30", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 2, "cool": 2}, "user_id": "fUs5XxOR82Hfrnyl4wi2QQ", "review_id": "SEDyIYHOdPwTb8C9ge3SYA", "text": "I had my two sons and their families come to AZ for the Thanksgiving weekend so before they left for home yesterday, they wanted Grandpa to take them to eat dim sum. Well as we were driving to Phoenix Palace where we normally go, we were talking about perhaps giving C-Fu Gourmet another shot since we had not been there in over two years. The last couple of times we went to C-Fu the dim sum was pretty bad since they had lost their experienced dim sum chef.\n\nSo we decided to give them a shot again. Upon driving up, we noticed a big banner that gave the new dim sum prices, which were lower since I suspect they are now actively trying to compete with Phoenix Palace, kiddy corner across the street. To make a long story short, the dim sum was pretty good. There were some dishes that left something to be desired, but all-in-all, I think they did a good job.\n\nI do have a couple of complaints though --- they have some young people pushing the dim sum carts and I think that is good since they can speak English as opposed to the older women who cannot speak English or understand you. But even with that capability, I asked the steam cart guy for a steamed dish and he said OK, but we never got it. Then I asked the fried cart girl to get me a couple of dishes from the kitchen and she said OK but never went back into the kitchen. So my problem here is with that kind of customer service, I am not sure if I want to come back here again if I cannot get what I want. \n\nBut the food was good and so much better than I experienced the last time I was here over two years ago.", "business_id": "z4KFTJQsAdxqMZA7Fx0A9A", "stars": 3, "date": "2012-11-26", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 2, "useful": 3, "cool": 3}, "user_id": "vwLmvuSyt2qervMRFennHw", "review_id": "fu7lLFlz6CX3eB6GiXD8rQ", "text": "Can we just talk for a minute about how friggin' good this restaurant is? This place serves plenty of fresh dim sum, has fast service and easy to get in if you come early! But be warned, we have come just as the doors opened only to miss out on some of the choices when they get busier, so your timing to arrive will influence your choices. What's good about dim sum is that each dish is inexpensive and you can sample a variety of food. C-Fu is always pretty busy but you don't normally wait long to be seated.\n\nThis place a good spot for decent dim sum. They are fast, effective, and your dim comes out nice and steamy. Service for us was OK, then again, Chinese restaurants aren't always known for having the best service. Could I tell you the exact name of our favorites? No. but their food is amazingly tasty, and fresh! Plus the carts actually come by frequently.\n\nThe food is delicious and remarkably affordable! I haven't been to any other dim sum restaurant here in Arizona, so I can't compare to others, but this once is delicious. The restaurant was nice and spacey \"the food really good\" but \"I can't remember the name of it\", Excellent choice for Dim Sum. Busy place, which keeps the food fresh and the carts moving. Very reasonably priced, as dim sum should be. \n\nThey normally don't serve you, they are usually just there to refill your drinks and give your receipt. Other than that, they go around with carts and you pick & choose what you want. \n\nFOOD: The food was really good. Unfortunately I can't remember any of the dishes we enjoyed but we did try a variety of their selections. We didn't like everything on the menu. But there were lots of things my wife & I really liked. PRICE: Reasonable. SERVICE: The carts come around quite frequently which is a good thing. Service is somewhat lacking when it comes to getting drink refills. I had to constantly flag down a waiter to refill our beverage. Also our servers hardly spoke a word of English. On a good note while the restaurant was packed, we were seated right away CONCLUSION: My thoughts on a restaurant of any ethnicity is seeing who eats there, if you see many people from the ethnicity of food you looking for you are usually on the right track this place in that aspect does not lie. RETURN FACTOR: 100%. I would come back here when I crave for some dim sum. \n\n************************* What does my OVERALL rating mean?*************************\n\n5 stars -Highly recommended. I would be willing to drive out of my way to this business. It is that good. This place represents their industry or cuisine very well! \n4 stars - Highly Recommended. I would frequent this business. \n3 stars - Not that good but not that bad. Just average. I wouldn't mind going again. \n2 stars - I would not recommend this establishment to friends or family. \n1 stars - DO YOURSELF A FAVOR AND DO NOT patronize this business. I would RUN AWAY from this place and you should too! DON'T WAST YOUR HARD EARNED MONEY AT THIS ESTABLISHMENT", "business_id": "z4KFTJQsAdxqMZA7Fx0A9A", "stars": 4, "date": "2013-09-29", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "4zXXcYKTe6QhPrqUMXOI6A", "review_id": "XNdU30ToFo8Qz75FpAKX-A", "text": "I've been going to this place for dim sum on and off for over 10 years. By far give the best variety of dim sum in the valley and give it to you straight. I'm originally from the Bay Area and went to china town there for dim sum and some of the dishes at C-Fu are just as good. I'd recommend this place to anyone looking for dim sum in the valley.", "business_id": "z4KFTJQsAdxqMZA7Fx0A9A", "stars": 5, "date": "2013-10-13", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "R4Ax3btoJ6qLXhqq6J50VQ", "review_id": "ByD8AhW0I4EfwyMDwlPPvQ", "text": "I really needed an asian food fix after being in Chicago for a week. I visited my boyfriend in Arizona for the first time when I ate here. We ate here kind of late Saturday about 2pm. The dim sum was ok. \n\nMy next visit was when I moved here, I came with my parents and my boyfriend again but we came this time at 11am. Peak dimsum hours and I had such a different experience. The food was SO good and comparable to the dim sum we had at home (San Gabriel Valley). Even my parents were impressed. \n\nThe dim sum is hong kong parent approved!", "business_id": "z4KFTJQsAdxqMZA7Fx0A9A", "stars": 4, "date": "2013-10-17", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 3, "cool": 3}, "user_id": "d8B0rpK3LRPKry8AXydEZg", "review_id": "yUcSOF5YwglWXvEfRfzN8g", "text": "I went for a dinner with a few friends on a Friday night around 8pm and we were one of two tables. It was a perfectly good dinner, with friendly staff waiting on us. One of the ladies was trying a bit too hard to upsell more expensive dishes, so that was a bit too obvious on her part but it wasn't too big of a deal.\n\nLemon Chicken - my husband's favorite. He seemed to like it well enough so I think it was good!\n\nDouble Tofu Delight - Fried tofu arranged on the border of the plate with steamed tofu in brown sauce in the middle. Pretty tasty!\n\nSteamed Tilapia - Seemed a bit pricey, $24 for a roughly 2lb tilapia. But I guess they have to markup market prices to make a profit.\n\nHoney Walnut Shrimp - Good, but the breading was a bit inconsistent among the shrimp. But you can't really do much wrong to this dish :P Yum...\n\nAll in all, it was a good dinner and we left pretty content. We'll have to come back for dim sum.", "business_id": "z4KFTJQsAdxqMZA7Fx0A9A", "stars": 4, "date": "2013-11-18", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "aRy1ssBLiB7HE4cRofUHxQ", "review_id": "j9BftTlaChOm9auhICg6Ug", "text": "I really love the food here at this restaurant! Especially the dim sum. I've been coming here for years and every time the owner is there he is very welcoming! If your ever there for dinner definitely try the lobster. If you've never had lobster chinese style you've gotta try it!", "business_id": "z4KFTJQsAdxqMZA7Fx0A9A", "stars": 4, "date": "2013-11-19", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "NEG2uXX5zHhX9NI3xPn9aA", "review_id": "sYr_-oGqNEyRN2WbDPH1Qw", "text": "If you are in the area and craving dim sum, do yourself a favor and go to phoenix across the street. The dim sum was luke warm and the restaurants is not clean- sticky plates, dirty carts, and saw a waitress drop her rag only to put it back on her cart. I will not be returning....ever!", "business_id": "z4KFTJQsAdxqMZA7Fx0A9A", "stars": 1, "date": "2014-09-01", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "Ey1e9lVFzTQJTiZvla5PGw", "review_id": "Ze9mKE1klBc8-0G2HP_kOQ", "text": "After having more time to process, I have decided that I won't come back, even for take out lunch. I'd rather have Panda or Pei Wei. A chain where I know what to expect.\n\nI ordered online again and they had to call me because the online order form does not have the options that they claim. The lunch special online says that you get tea, crab puff or egg roll, soup or salad and the entree. They said they were not able to include the tea and when I got there, he said as a courtesy, they included the soup and it doesn't normally come with take out and to order the a la carte entree because it comes with more. \n\nI would argue that it definitely doesn't come with more to do it a la carte. I mean, you get more of the entree, but not everything that it claimed online.\n\nThat being said, I will continue on and say even if you're concerned about more or less, it's not that great anyway. The kung pao had some bell peppers, water chestnuts, peanuts, mushrooms and chicken. The sauce was runny and not spicy.\n\nThe crab puff is not a puff, it's a folded over wonton wrapper filled with cream cheese.\n\nThe soup was not hot or sour, wreaked of white pepper and tasted like nothing. Didn't really end up eating my courtesy soup after all.\n\nOverall, just not really worth it. You pay a little more than a chain with really nothing to show for it.\n\nI didn't eat inside obviously, but there is not even an ambiance to make up for it. It looks like it is falling apart. There is an automated slider when you walk in that sounds like it is going to collapse, a dirty fish tank, and a dilapidated bar and ball room off to the right. As I waited for my food, I looked at the reviews on the wall, all from about 97-98. When I see this, it usually indicates the place has seen better days, which it probably has.\n\nIf you've read my review, I commend you and suggest you spare yourself what I have experienced myself.", "business_id": "z4KFTJQsAdxqMZA7Fx0A9A", "stars": 2, "date": "2014-10-11", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 2, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "nL4QufiB7bmRrP-oV14L4Q", "review_id": "aOSOE1dvme85mDlMjk9hog", "text": "I have three go-to spots for dim sum in Phoenix - Great Wall, Phoenix Palace, and C-Fu Gourmet. They all have their pros and cons, but C-Fu has won me over with their service. They're the only one of the three who have staff who are courteous and make the effort to speak to you in English. However, food-wise they're more or less on par. The dishes at C-Fu sometimes look re-heated, but that might be because I'm not a morning person and don't make it in til 1PM or so. But it's still pretty damn good. Great Wall has really good barbecue pork buns, but are always jam-packed on any given day, so be prepared to wait outside for about 15 minutes for your number to be called - keeping in mind that 15 minutes in the summer heat feels like an eternity. Phoenix Palace has pretty good egg tarts, but can get pretty crowded too and have some rather rude waiters.\n\nSo if you wanna try dim sum, I'd recommend trying out all three to try their best dishes. If you don't want to have the experience ruin your day, go to C-Fu.", "business_id": "z4KFTJQsAdxqMZA7Fx0A9A", "stars": 3, "date": "2014-10-22", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "FEJt4rZgikhJqPXnnyld_Q", "review_id": "rEzWIVTAzTan3f1HCq5XtQ", "text": "Friendly service. Just doesn't compare to dim sum in Cali.", "business_id": "z4KFTJQsAdxqMZA7Fx0A9A", "stars": 2, "date": "2014-11-09", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "06Gp7FYDwNHvDP2Zjk6Mww", "review_id": "NyjbcIZI1c7M3VuqslfgHg", "text": "This is by far my family's favorite go to spot for dim sum. We absolutely love it and take friends and family as often as possible. They have a better selection on the weekend. Yum!", "business_id": "z4KFTJQsAdxqMZA7Fx0A9A", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-11-20", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "mstOhCDMiipQVn7qXMpUtA", "review_id": "s8TPOSovZDl2IA2gWJLgjw", "text": "Great place to hold private events. We went to this restaurant for a wedding reception. The dishes tasted good and came out according to schedule. Has a small stage for people to give their speech for the special occasions", "business_id": "z4KFTJQsAdxqMZA7Fx0A9A", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-10-03", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "WORShVhq7IwMY4iizc1dAA", "review_id": "n1ts1YR1MLAGeam71mT6tw", "text": "Bad day? I don't know. I've had better meals at other Red Lobster restaurants. The only good thing about tonight's experience was the waiter, Bryan. Fast, efficient, polite and funny, just how I like it. We had a Lobsterita (huge margarita) and shared it. Regretted it too, since it was way too sour and had a chemical taste to it. I couldn't take but two sips and then I switched to something else that I knew it'll taste much better, water. The salads were made with wilted lettuce and sore looking tomatoes. Croutons were ok. The all too familiar hot bread was good, as it is always. The main dish, a medium cooked steak and grilled shrimp was delivered on time. Steak was chewy at best, although the marinade's taste was ok. Shrimp were grilled well, not too much or too little. My wife's shrimp scampi was absolutely tasteless, overcooked shrimp in some sort of shrimp juice, with very little butter and no garlic. Pretty horrifying if you ask me.\n\nI think this is the last visit we're going to pay to this location. As I said before, I've had much better meals there and I cannot justify the bill when we are not satisfied with the quality of food. Too bad...", "business_id": "txCJurIIrE9ZoHu3gZUvnQ", "stars": 1, "date": "2009-10-03", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "AirVzN1BVQBmq5zY0YMNYQ", "review_id": "ZMahxROh8w7342czdgtjPw", "text": "Red Lobster reminds me of Olive Garden with a seafood focus. Our server reminded me of Brian, the sever with \"flair\" from Office Space. He seemed nice, just a tad over the top. I appreciate the effort, but he had a little to much energy for me. \n\nThe food was better than I expected and they were perfect size portions for lunch. My salad was a little over dressed and the add on shrimp were the tiny little ones (now I see why it was only 99 cents), I wouldn't get them again. The biscuits and jambalaya were good.\n\nWe went there to use a gift card we won. I would go back if we won another one, but with so many places to eat, Red Lobster is not going to be my first pick.", "business_id": "txCJurIIrE9ZoHu3gZUvnQ", "stars": 3, "date": "2010-10-05", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "78CsMT_UhldzzztEJ4HP-A", "review_id": "QkqGufojmQ60SaAFYWzZVA", "text": "Food was tasty but the service sux! I visited @ 3pm on a tuesday ... My server was also handling host ane bartender duties. Long long long long wait for condiments and extra biscuits. Tick tick tick down went the tip! Service is poor to say the least", "business_id": "txCJurIIrE9ZoHu3gZUvnQ", "stars": 2, "date": "2011-11-22", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "BEe04ziifpSkBdKsCSAUXA", "review_id": "XNf4btW5Fghn5bJhQOysJw", "text": "Lobster was not fully cooked. Eewweee", "business_id": "txCJurIIrE9ZoHu3gZUvnQ", "stars": 2, "date": "2012-11-21", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "MTVmGpohsEB_rrjACRGZ-w", "review_id": "Ai3jLzEJSnndacy82TqbNg", "text": "My husband and I decided to dine at Red Lobster this past week. We were ready for some seafood and thought it would be the place to go. I should have realized we were in trouble when we saw that they were not busy! We both ordered grilled and steamed seafood dishes with salad & vegetables. First the salad was brought to our table and the bowl had about 5-6 pieces of lettuce and two tiny pieces of tomato and cucumber-are you serious? It was less than mediocre! Then our main dishes came and the seafood was horrible. My scallops smelled funny and tasted bad. I bit into my shrimp and they were very mealy and had no real flavor. The grilled Lobster tail was ok-it's hard to ruin. My husband had to send his white fish back-it tasted horrible & they brought him grilled shrimp-same bad taste! Our only positive thing was our server. We asked to speak to the manager and they said they would be right over. After 15 minutes of waiting we got up & left. Don't waste your time or money at this place!!!", "business_id": "txCJurIIrE9ZoHu3gZUvnQ", "stars": 1, "date": "2012-11-24", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "MNWESPmAo0qnVdAkQQMnIA", "review_id": "EkxcZzF_D_ABytJXuLynAQ", "text": "Standing in the lobby. Told by the servers it would be a 15-20 min wait by the hostess. Walked around the restaurant. 5 two tops,5 four tops, and two 8 tops open but they are making about 6 parties of people not including us wait. ARE YOU KiDDING ME!!!", "business_id": "txCJurIIrE9ZoHu3gZUvnQ", "stars": 1, "date": "2013-09-22", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "v721TYO7DMiU5Dfd8tOnmQ", "review_id": "5u09v4zBwActmn2WW1BVWw", "text": "Endless shrimp is back for September!! (ask for the coconut shrimp (they aren't on the list but, they'll serve them).", "business_id": "txCJurIIrE9ZoHu3gZUvnQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2013-11-17", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "h3zEp9rRKb0TakkCL3UN6g", "review_id": "O6DxNrXq-Q8HOVui5dAcYA", "text": "Ordered during my lunch today with just 3 or 4 others in the entire restaurant. I waited close to a half hour for my food (which was just an appetizer by the way). Ended up having to get my food to go so I could get back to lunch. Also sat at the bar and waited to be checked in with. Never happened. This was the first unsatisfactory experience I've had at Red Lobster. I'll stick to my usual location for future reference.", "business_id": "txCJurIIrE9ZoHu3gZUvnQ", "stars": 2, "date": "2014-09-22", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 5, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "1VLNCynbti0QsaqOu5mdHg", "review_id": "AlG1VRRAeo3qCLgRuHPBsg", "text": "I went in here with my girlfriend and her daughter to get the all you can eat shrimp. Things started off slow...sat there for 10 minutes before being greeted. Finally, our server, Annie E. came over and said she would be with us in just a minute. Ok...not a problem. Then another server came over just to take our drink order. We gave it to her and asked if she could take our food order as well? When that happened, Annie came over right away and took our order. Annie seemed nice from the beginning. \n\nWe ordered the shrimp and she asked if we wanted to put in 2 refills right now, since they take about 15 minutes to come out, and this would expedite things. Score! I was loving this already. \n\nThen everything went downhill.\n\nThe food took almost 30 minutes to come out. At least the refills were coming soon...or at least I thought. She didn't deliver the food, and didn't stop back for almost 10 minutes. My water was empty for quite a while. She asked if we were ready for the refills. Of course we were, our food was gone. We waited another 20 minutes for the refills that take 15 minutes to come out, that were supposed to be quicker since she took them ahead of time, but that didn't happen.\n\nWe ate those, and waited...and waited...and waited. She then came over and asked if we wanted more refills? No thanks I honestly didn't want to wait another 20 minutes. The one meal came with a dessert, and I just asked if we could get that...and she started walking away. I asked, as she was walking away, if I could get some more water, since they were empty, again and also a box as she was about 15 feet away. She could not even wait until I finished my sentence before walking away. I was never rude, I was just asking.\n\nShe brought the items out and then tried to be nice again by asking if we wanted biscuits to go or more shrimp to go. Again, I said, \"No, thanks.\" As we just wanted to go.\n\nI would skip this place.", "business_id": "txCJurIIrE9ZoHu3gZUvnQ", "stars": 2, "date": "2014-09-30", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "PUvNB67c9lHAi2s10Kq3-w", "review_id": "KEoCC5KhY1Nk3kDjAfCxKw", "text": "We just had dinner at the Red Lobster in Chandler Arizona and our waitress was Theresa.Right away she made it known that there was some confusion with who was supposed to be waiting on our table.Honestly we did not even think it had bin a long time and we were still deciding what to eat anyway.She went out of her way regardless to make sure to make up for this when again we did'nt see it as a big deal.My wife and i had both been in the restaurant industry before and both waited on tables and understand how things like this sometimes just happen. Again we did not see it as a big deal anyway. I have always been a fan of Red Lobster anyway but today it was all about the exceptional service we received.I made sure to compliment Theresa's performance to the manager on staff as I am doing now here.Thank you Theresa, on this night you are greatly appreciated. The Bakers", "business_id": "txCJurIIrE9ZoHu3gZUvnQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-10-14", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "h3zEp9rRKb0TakkCL3UN6g", "review_id": "Rt__HeTuJPwNwxThAZ3m1A", "text": "I'm a little late with this update however about 3 weeks ago I decided to try Red Lobster again after seeing a commercial and really craving it. My experience was completely different. Chrystal was my server and she was great. There were just as many people in there as the last time, except this time I had my food delivered efficiently and Chrystal continued to check back in with me. She knew I was on a lunch break so she made sure to bring the check early so I could get back to work on time. My experience here was completely different and I will probably attend again when Chryst is working ;-)", "business_id": "txCJurIIrE9ZoHu3gZUvnQ", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-10-28", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "ixgYqRHucl21_3-qtPcVoA", "review_id": "TlzkjaxphvUZChn2-Sm3oA", "text": "It's a Red Lobster, well kept and usually a wait but not too long. If you're not familiar with Red Lobsters, it's a decent American style seafood chain and make sure you try the biscuits.", "business_id": "txCJurIIrE9ZoHu3gZUvnQ", "stars": 3, "date": "2014-11-29", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "egveQ3aFiX7DVILmFyFjdQ", "review_id": "np8Qdj4Wzte36830TZgxgw", "text": "The food was excellent tonight... The server was great. We have been to other Red Lobsters and we have not been satisfied. Tonight the food was fresh and tasted just how I have been imagining... Yum yum... I would definitely cone back to this location...", "business_id": "txCJurIIrE9ZoHu3gZUvnQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-09-28", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "FdmJJI4dBdxvfm4nrhsNWA", "review_id": "nMHhTXbOOCdFVSuTi1YG_Q", "text": "I just ate their endless shrimp yesterday w my BF and it was so great and filling! Definitely too heavy but they were so prompt w each plate. We never had to ask for a refill for our teas or our plates never piled up, the waiter was awesome too. As for the endless shrimp we had each type they offered and they were all extremely hot and tasty and it was almost overwhelming bc we were half way into our first plates when he brought out our second plates and it was just way too much but I'm happy to say I was surprised by the good and fast service.", "business_id": "txCJurIIrE9ZoHu3gZUvnQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-10-03", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "41I5HR5Ig2i0yeqbB1TPwQ", "review_id": "J_Lffq_sFOZ0Lz17qeBwow", "text": "Great place endless shrimp on the menu. Full to the rim. Kids loved it but they need to learn to me more shrimp. Pss", "business_id": "txCJurIIrE9ZoHu3gZUvnQ", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-11-07", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 2, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "hv2Yx9q37hFbnaJngxRHWA", "review_id": "u1u9_s3RIhjCYiKzIrC6wg", "text": "Why do I always fall for the commercials that show juicy crab, lobster and shrimp!? You'd think I would know better by now, I mean it is a chain. \nMy experience with chains are that the service is normally consistently good with over salted food, or bad with over salted food. \nThis experience was the latter. \nThe one thing I will say Red Lobster has going for it, is pretty delicious cocktails. I am normally a beer and wine kind of gal, but their fruity beverages enticed the partner and I, so I went for the sangria and the partner went for the strawberry mojito. Both were fruity and delicious with just the right amount of an adult bite. \nI ordered the snow crab legs and they were good, but they were only steamed with no flavor. The butter was too salty and the potato was overcooked.\nThe partner ordered the lobster linguini with a Maine lobster tail on the side. The lobster on both was over done and rubbery. So if your jaw needs a good workout, I'd recommend it, otherwise save your Benjamins for something local with better quality.", "business_id": "txCJurIIrE9ZoHu3gZUvnQ", "stars": 1, "date": "2015-11-09", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 2, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "8gX8VpBo0dnSlKkWIdhIrA", "review_id": "NxIuPUlRCRWgXMl1K3Y-1w", "text": "I've eaten at this particular Carrabba's probably 25 times, and at numerous other locations over the years, including the one off of FLW up in Scottsdale. It's usually in my top 3 whenever anyone offers to take me out for a meal (truth be told, it ain't cheap...but it's well worth it).\n\nThe bread they bring out for starters is great, but it's the herb mix that they mix with the oil that really makes it fantastic. Sooo good. I usually order the chicken noodle soup, which certainly ain't no Campbell's. It's got a nice, spicy kick to it, unlike any other chicken noodle soup I've ever had before, and it has HUGE chunks of soft, white meat chicken.\n\nFor the main course, I usually stick with the chicken parmesan. Two healthy sized chicken breasts flattened out, breaded, and cooked to perfection. Just the right amount of cheese and traditional red marinara to top it off. For my pasta I go with their fettucini alfredo, I'm sure it isn't the healthy option, but it's a great compliment to the chicken. The portions are so big (on top of being half full on bread and soup already) that I always end up taking half of it home with me. \n\nI've sampled their lasagne (usually my Dad's choice), and it's quite delicious...my mom and my sister usually opt for the filet with a side of marsala sauce, and 9 times out of 10 it's amazing. From time to time, the chef undercooks it, but everyone's idea of \"medium-well\" is (somewhat) subjective, and they're always happy to throw it on the grill for a few more minutes if necessary. Another item that I've enjoyed is the garlic mashed potatoes, and that says a lot because I'm not usually a big fan of 'em elsewhere.\n\nI think I've had dessert here maybe twice, because by that point in the dining experience I am usually so stuffed that I can't even fathom cramming any more food into my face. Regardless, the chocolate cake/ice cream thing we got was also top notch.\n\nThe service is usually great, the establishment is always clean and proper, the atmosphere is pretty cool, a bit loud at times when the place is busy, but that doesn't really bother me. I didn't come here to have an in-depth discussion of politics, I came to get my grub on! There's an older Italian guy at the Scottsdale location that never fails to remind me that my hat is on wrong...which just furthers his old school italian credibility. \n\n5 stars, no question about it. LOVE this place!", "business_id": "cKxXBvOithS-Ic5KnhEKrg", "stars": 5, "date": "2009-10-20", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "_4lqpCYCqOQzbB6xQGGhrQ", "review_id": "13p0jnS4TO8mjTtjMbZr1A", "text": "Ive been going here for years and I love it. They have great food and pretty decent prices. \n\nThe wait is usually not bad if you go before the dinner rush. They can usually seat you right away. You get bread with a nice olive oil herb dip to eat before dinner. (Make sure you ask for fresh bread... if you go too early, they give you the lunch bread).\n\nMy favorite to eat there is the Pollo Rosa Maria.. two pieces of chicken breast stuffed with cheese, covered with mushrooms and with a nice side of fettuccine Alfredo. Delicious.\n\nMy favorite thing of all here is their iced tea.. just plain iced tea. Im not a fan of passion fruit or weird fruity mango teas, so this place fits it perfect.\n\nThe staff is friendly and the smells coming out are great!", "business_id": "cKxXBvOithS-Ic5KnhEKrg", "stars": 4, "date": "2010-10-15", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "DwU7KVfebA70AlVtX0iOWw", "review_id": "IACbU5J0OvBRCQQCpu6AQQ", "text": "Nice change of pace for me, as I usually do Italian somewhere else. We had a wonderful meal...Filet, Green Beans, Mashed Potatoes, Salad, and Super Yummy Bread & Oil. Love those Carbs! Our Medium Filets were done just right. Everything was very nice. The service was good. The only complaint I had was that our mashed potatoes were not very hot. We told our server and she quickly replaced (nuked?) our spuds.", "business_id": "cKxXBvOithS-Ic5KnhEKrg", "stars": 4, "date": "2010-11-24", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "Vtey4fTvKn5SsZ0SZ0m62A", "review_id": "u29JmuJiLJEipo4XTqUXNQ", "text": "Tonight was date night and I have never been to a Carrabba's so my boyfriend and I went to dinner at this location. We were served by Judy who was very warm and the service was amazing.\n\nMy boyfriend and I each had the Blackberry Sangria. It was soooo good!! Our meals were also amazing, but we were going to skip dessert since we were so full. With much persuasion by Judy, we ordered the chocolate brownie with mouse and whipped cream. It was also to die for. \n\nA manager brought our dessert and asked us about the sangria. Since we were so enthusiastic about it, he brought us each a sample of their Peach Sangria. Also amazing! \n\nAs she left our tab, Judy advised that if we ever returned during the busy times and dropped her name, we would be seated at one of her best tables in half the time! \n\nThen the manager who served our dessert stopped us to ask which Sangria we preferred. Of course we could not decide, it's like comparing apples to oranges!\n\nNeedles to say, the service we received was beyond expectation and we felt like celebrities!!", "business_id": "cKxXBvOithS-Ic5KnhEKrg", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-09-16", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 2, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "9Dp3fBOEQvZpYALtQ9C8HA", "review_id": "qI1pWlOw78KAsvi6aKHh5A", "text": "I wish I could give this place a better review.. but I cant. I went here with my husband and daughter for dinner. The food was good but very rich. I felt like I needed to take a bath after. It seemed like most of their flavors came from fat.. maybe it was just what we ordered. I also ordered a glass of their Sangria .. was disapointed with that too. The glass was small.. which you cant do with Sangria since most of it gets taken up by fruit! They did have some delicious herb dipping oil for your bread. That was about the only thing I was impressed with. Good service. However I was, along with my husband, sick all that night after eating there. I most likely wont be going back.", "business_id": "cKxXBvOithS-Ic5KnhEKrg", "stars": 2, "date": "2011-09-21", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "588oY8EejEFCr-ym_2TR0Q", "review_id": "FgKTR6RGwDFsaIYRTtzaQw", "text": "Not bad. We walked in about 9:30 on Saturday, and had the Ribs, Calamari, Side Salad, and the pepperoni pizza. Everything was good. The mashed potatos that came with the ribs, were the best things i ate, really well seasoned. The pizza was a good quality pie as well. I guess my only wish was that they had a jug wine option like Macaroni grill. If I'm going to pay $15 - $18 for chain resturant food, at least have a $4 glass of terrible wine for me to wash it down with. Other than that, I thought it was PFG. Not good enough to make it on my list yet, but maybe another visit, and I'll have become a fan.", "business_id": "cKxXBvOithS-Ic5KnhEKrg", "stars": 3, "date": "2011-09-24", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "Mb0psF4WQF7gZSuZafVr-g", "review_id": "Ts4Ll6hR76KLMptQ7w2pCQ", "text": "We ate here as part of Restaurant Week. $30 for two people, three courses. The calamari was good. Not great, but good. They managed to avoid not making it chewy, but the marinara dip was a little weak. Their batter-dip (the part that gets crispy when they fry it) also didn't seem to have any seasoning to it.\n\nThe lentil/sausage soup was really good. I liked it. The Italian chicken soup also was very good, though not as \"bold\" as the lentil.\n\nThe main courses were good. Large portions of pasta, big chunks of scallops, or chicken (depending on the dish ordered). I had the mezzaluna. It was tasty, but I don't think I'd order it again. Just personal preference. It's a ravioli dish, and I would have liked a bolder (and redder) sauce, and more filling.\n\nThe desserts were wonderful. I had the cannoli. It was really very nice. I didn't really like how it was served (the ingredients were packed into this tall thin glass). I would have preferred the more traditional presentation. But the flavor was really excellent.\n\nService was friendly, cheerful, and attentive. Good job all around there.\n\nI'd give 3.5 stars if I could, but I can't. And I don't think they quite rated 4 stars. But maybe that was my entree choice. If I go again and feel differently I'll update this review to reflect it.", "business_id": "cKxXBvOithS-Ic5KnhEKrg", "stars": 3, "date": "2011-09-25", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "ny2W0MdcHgm5klNm6yugrw", "review_id": "YP2GUhPC-VEKOFFeUcpyBw", "text": "It was our first time and it was great! We enjoyed the food, pasta and chicken trio....yum. The service was good. I would of been happy with the appetizer, calamari, and their bread & dip. So Good. We even got a visit from the manager! Everyone was so nice!", "business_id": "cKxXBvOithS-Ic5KnhEKrg", "stars": 4, "date": "2011-10-05", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 2, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "9-Y2cy-7rWPMHrkkYmXFfA", "review_id": "7L975MWx-iqGs03aWpNQFg", "text": "Carrabba's for the win. Good, solid Itallian food. It doesn't remind me of home cooking because I never make Itallian at home, but it does remind me of other similar Italian concepts like Macaronni Grill, The OG, The OG Spaghetti Factory, etc. However, this place seems to do it a little better than the others. Stay away from the house wine as I felt like a drunken wino after 2 glasses. And not drunk in a happy way, but drunk in a I'm gonna take a nap under the overpass kinda way.", "business_id": "cKxXBvOithS-Ic5KnhEKrg", "stars": 4, "date": "2011-10-14", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 3, "cool": 3}, "user_id": "JffajLV-Dnn-eGYgdXDxFg", "review_id": "BnVNKOKunhNC3eM084WRlQ", "text": "I love Italian food, and this was my first time at a Carrabbas. I came here with a friend of mine after shopping at Ikea, and I really enjoyed my experience here.\n\nI really liked my experience here. The staff was friendly throughout, from the hostess, to the waiter, and everyone else we interacted here. Menu had a lot of different options, with a full wine and alcohol menu to a variety of different dishes. The server told us about the different things on the menu, as we both had a few questions about different dishes that we both saw. We were also informed that they make their pasta fresh daily, which I thought was awesome.\n\nThe bread plate with the oil was Delicious. We ate 2 baskets worth! I went with the spaghetti with meat sauce, and a sprite. I wasn't drinking since I had to drive home, but my friend did get 2 beers while we were there. My friend went with the meatless spaghetti, and both our dishes were awesome. We passed on desert since we were both so full afterwards.\n\nI would gladly return in the future, as I had a really good time here.", "business_id": "cKxXBvOithS-Ic5KnhEKrg", "stars": 4, "date": "2011-10-30", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "PVbcpvrSKv2GTBK9QiQgiA", "review_id": "540RgMP2QY3irV_SwdWRCg", "text": "Ahwatukee and Chandler can not have enough Italian restaurants. That was sarcasm.\n\nSo when this one gets four stars its the sign of a good thing.\n\nItems I really like:\nAppetizers: (my favorite part to any meal)\nFried zucchini - thinly sliced and lightly friend with a great dipping sauce.\nFried calamari - fresh and again lightly breaded and fried. Must have the spicy pepper and lemon butter sauce. Must.\n\nEntree's\nSpiedino Di Mare: Scallops and shrimp are perfectly cooked.\nChicken Marsala - wonderful mushrooms and sauce.\n\nI enjoy both their vinegrette and creamy Italian for the salad starter.\n\nI recommend the lenti and sausage soup should you feel like something warm andn spicy. Very yummy in your tummy.\n\nThey are a \"scratch\" kitchen as they call it, which means they can accommodate any food dislikes or allergies.\n\nIt's kind of dark in the dinning area but comfortable.", "business_id": "cKxXBvOithS-Ic5KnhEKrg", "stars": 4, "date": "2011-11-19", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 3, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "qa05pUVNapADHZXpHMPMeA", "review_id": "hRcNwm8QnDNKR9qgQ34L0A", "text": "Don't let my three stars fool you into thinking I don't think much of Carrabba's, because I do. I really enjoy it here, I almost always have terrific service, the food is consistently good, I love the overall atmosphere of the place, and sitting at the pasta bar to watch them cook everyones food is mighty fun, it's just that the prices have gotten out of control. I've been coming to this location for quite a few years now and have watched the prices climb higher and higher to the point that I rarely visit anymore... I still enjoy it when I do, but there are way too many fantastic places nowadays where I get a lot more bang for my buck. I am not a huge chain eating kind of guy but this Carrabba's has a special little place in my heart... I'll be back now and again, but if they don't calm it down a bit they'll end up losing me.", "business_id": "cKxXBvOithS-Ic5KnhEKrg", "stars": 3, "date": "2012-09-09", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "EvYMKVgZNREZO_khKfZAlg", "review_id": "o2skG7wPfNFufCRv-0P98Q", "text": "Often go there for Great Food. The owner is constantly seeking approval from regulars to improve their menu and often hosts events where you can taste new entries prior to being available to the public. All in all one of my favorite places to go!", "business_id": "cKxXBvOithS-Ic5KnhEKrg", "stars": 4, "date": "2012-10-28", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "t7Q29WBtZOY7kqDMKKWmhQ", "review_id": "T-SpLeTbTjvH_1SAsPD9ew", "text": "This place has a very nice atmosphere. The restaurant is nice and clean. The servers aren't overly friendly, at least not the ones I have come into contact with. The bread is very good especially with olive oil. The food was good but here is where this place falters. The food is expensive for the small portion they give you. I don't mind paying money if I get a good portion. I didn't even leave full. Needless to say that was enough to make me not want to come back.", "business_id": "cKxXBvOithS-Ic5KnhEKrg", "stars": 3, "date": "2013-10-24", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "fH9-qBN3KNjBk189PSKMrg", "review_id": "IWlpmN0HCQtl3ZADIPK1sg", "text": "Our favorite waitress is back! As is the old manager (John, I think?). They must have had an off night with a new manager subbing and it went dreadfully wrong. We decided to try it again after they introduced a reward program and were pleasantly surprised. \n\nI had one great meal (same items as last time), went back a couple of weeks later and tried something different (the Italian Classics). Delicious! However, I tried it again the following week and was disappointed. The chicken parmesan was burned. Like dark brown, bubbled cheese and the lasagna was unruly and tasted like it had cream cheese in it or something this time? It just kind of stayed on your tongue too long after taking a bite and was strangely creamy. Weird. \n\nSo I'll just stick with the calamari, sausage lentil soup and sirloin marsala. \n\nI guess I update my review to say when they are on their game, everything is fantastic, but they can really have off nights occasionally. I guess like many places.", "business_id": "cKxXBvOithS-Ic5KnhEKrg", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-10-03", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "tCVQyYHcmOrx2i81C47Tew", "review_id": "1lJDhTOv6P4BVqNnLbt9Nw", "text": "Came in on a Sunday night and sat at the bar. The bartender was amazing! We told her a little bit about our wine choices and she came up with some great wine suggestions that were right on par. Additionally she told us about a wine paring dinner that they hold every 3rd Tuesday of the month, which sounds amazing. Food was delicious as usual... all in all a great evening!", "business_id": "cKxXBvOithS-Ic5KnhEKrg", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-10-05", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "ZO0CG3C58pXU_eJwOw9inA", "review_id": "2ABVBcvD4yOxUswE6eWgDw", "text": "Coming here after Day 7 of Feast of Tabernacles here, and they had just opened the doors (So we arrived at the right time) Anyway, I went ahead with a Salmon this time, since I have had steaks at other places, I was tempted on their Lasagna, but its been a longer period of time since I had Salmon so went with that. \nSince they have Coke Products (BLEAH!) I went with their House Lemonade since I also didnt feel like having a Beer at that point of time- it was pretty good Lemonade as I had 4 glasses total I think.\nThe service here was pretty prompt and courteous, so overall, if I see a Carrabba's I would have no issues coming in to eat.", "business_id": "cKxXBvOithS-Ic5KnhEKrg", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-10-15", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "yhQrIyl5g5tJRVuxEi-wGg", "review_id": "pKupKWVFv30t7_n83b2bFw", "text": "Visiting from out of town and Carrabbas was recommended by a co-worker. This was my first time and may be my last. I was seated promptly and my waitress gave me a menu and asked if I'd like a drink. She brought me my iced tea and that was the last time I saw her come near my table for over 20 minutes. She never returned to ask me if I wanted an appatizer, or would like to place my dinner order. So, I finished my tea and got up and left. I should have let the manager know 'why' I was leaving, but I didnt.\nIt's too bad too, because I heard another waitress, serving the couple seated 15 minutes after I was, doing a great job at making them feel welcome and leading them through the menu, suggesting specials, etc. Guess I turned invisible for 15 minutes there.", "business_id": "cKxXBvOithS-Ic5KnhEKrg", "stars": 1, "date": "2014-11-21", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "ZCBoG22ekHB2A1EIZtTHcA", "review_id": "UbSpPne-29DG49CExir20g", "text": "We love Carrabas and have never gone wrong with any dish! We have had the amazing salmon (I am particular with my salmon and it is far better than any seafood restaurant). We have had the cavatappi, filet spideno, and chicken Marsala. All wonderful ! They now have dine in rewards, which is a positive since we eat their on a monthly basis.", "business_id": "cKxXBvOithS-Ic5KnhEKrg", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-09-06", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "-aiOg3rk296RKLaZ0Acw8g", "review_id": "gyfQ4Wnl7977R554LeLCMw", "text": "This is an excellent place to eat. Great service, food, and atmosphere. I've never had one bad experience here and I go at least once a wk. It's wonderful and the chicken bryan pizza is the best pizza in the universe! :-)", "business_id": "cKxXBvOithS-Ic5KnhEKrg", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-10-10", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "6GDpm6YZfejFfAdela3Axg", "review_id": "7B-QE2VUfbu3eBdo3u83pg", "text": "It's been quite some time since I have been to a Carrabba's and was excited to revisit when my daughter suggested it. My favorite dish was always the Mezzaluna, and was pleased to see that it was still on the menu. Well, it wasn't what I was used to! The ravioli were flat (not a lot of stuffing) and the sauce needed serious help. I ended up putting balsamic vinegar on the dish, just to make it palatable. My daughter's Fettucine Carrabba was tasty, though - good sauce on the noodles. They should also warn people that their Caesar salad dressing contains anchovies - not everyone likes that sort of thing. We ordered drinks - the first two drinks that we requested were rejected because they didn't have the makings for them. So, I thought that I would treat my 21 yo daughter to a B-52. We were charged $8 for a drink that was incorrectly made and VERY little alcohol. I mentioned to our waiter that the bartender needed to go back to bartending school. Our waiter was meh as well. I was disappointed that a restaurant that used to be a go-to (when we lived in the city a decade ago) no longer holds that status.", "business_id": "cKxXBvOithS-Ic5KnhEKrg", "stars": 2, "date": "2015-10-10", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "va02uX_MvN2suVKIX_pNeA", "review_id": "TFevbQT3HAscBZCgnHbVKQ", "text": "Slightly hidden by the car dealerships but has been a great casual Italian dining choice for years. The service has always been consistent whether sitting at the bar or at a table. Happy hour prices are great on appetizers. The bartender didn't mention it and I didn't ask but it was half off so I had no complaints with my bill. I really like the antipasti plate(calamari was blah but marinara made up for it) . The steak flatbread was kinda blah. This last time I didnt have any entrees but you cant go wrong with any of the signature chicken dishes.", "business_id": "cKxXBvOithS-Ic5KnhEKrg", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-10-14", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "AyZ5Ws-6M2E255iaokE-YA", "review_id": "qXFi7vaJfLn_J_LDM5OxzA", "text": "I eat at Carrabba's often. The food is Very Good, not Excellent, but very good. However, IMO, they serve the best Calamari in town. If it were n to for the Calamari, I would not eat there as often as I do.\n\nThe service varies depending on the server you get. Over the years I've had two servers that were really good, but both have left. Some of their other servers are not that Great.", "business_id": "cKxXBvOithS-Ic5KnhEKrg", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-11-22", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 4, "cool": 3}, "user_id": "-_3p-2J3onbOHKMltqTCdQ", "review_id": "pnOHc3k7deyal1QZa5x0jA", "text": "This place is the spot for Happy Hour 4-6 pm. They have several drink specials, I didn't listen after I saw the juicers at the bar and heard \"orange slice martini\" (3.75). This drink is perfect, the orange slice floater tops it off- yum. Next I tried a greyhound - of course fresh squeezed grapefruit and I added the extra shot of Grey Goose for 1.25. All appetizers are half off, you have to do the prime rib (no joke) sliders for about a fin. WOW, this going to be a once a week gig methinks! Not overcrowded, great lighting, comfortable and great service. Give it a shot. Oh, and the complimentary party of 6 or more Nachos were a hit.", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 4, "date": "2008-09-19", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 4, "useful": 3, "cool": 2}, "user_id": "mjP_3XwUXdptvOpQd0OjBw", "review_id": "jAQDJsDtP-e6vdUAnbBl8Q", "text": "Good Steaks but no atmosphere. It's a cross between somewhere trying to create a 'scene' and the Outback Steakhouse.\nLaminated menus and explanations of what 'medium-rare' is kinda says it all for me.", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 2, "date": "2008-10-14", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "eK6B7KAnQfbKOuQHzEBK8Q", "review_id": "CYx1NHDFDWlE11ebrFcj7g", "text": "I really enjoy the food here and the Steak is prepared almost as good as my own and thats a tall order. The sides are all delicious and I have never had a bad server.", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 4, "date": "2009-10-28", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 3, "cool": 2}, "user_id": "nMwgC0DuMsBR0V5v4-J8wg", "review_id": "hPncywhJYLYG-QyjPr42OA", "text": "I love, love, love the Keg! I've been to this location as well as San Tan Village, Tempe Marketplace and Desert Ridge and have had nothing but exceptional food and service. I really like the atmosphere, it has that dark, cozy steakhouse feeling without being too stuffy or pretentious. \n\nWe enjoyed an excellent Halloween dinner here last night which included a \"Keg sized\" glass of Fetzer chardonnay, a margarita (very strong), the Keg Classic Dinner (ceasar salad, 7 oz filet wrapped in bacon, mixed vegetables and a loaded baked potato), bacon wrapped scallops (an appetizer that I ordered for my entree) and their fabulous bread with whipped butter, YUM! Our server was very outgoing and friendly and offered suggestions as far as the menu. The bill with tax and tip was $68, really an excellent value.\n\n Overall, a great meal and dining experience. I will definitely be back and can't wait!", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 5, "date": "2009-11-01", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "rYG_FSHAdLp2BmkKKCt_IA", "review_id": "KuRxTCOkvrwT7mJHNPN4jQ", "text": "I came here during restaurant week and I ordered a bacon wrapped filet mignon with shrimp and scallops. Came with an appetizer of buttered shrimp and a dessert (I ordered cr\u00e8me brul\u00e9e but they didn't have it so I picked carrot cake). \n\nThe buttered shrimp appetizer was pretty good. The filet mignon was the best. I always get it medium rare and it always hits the spot. The shrimp and scallops were a bonus.\n\nThey didn't have the dessert I wanted but the Carrot cake (\u00e0 la mode) was a big slice (like 1/4 of a regular carrot cake). I'm sure I would've gotten diabetes if I ate all of it but I took a few bites and finished the ice cream.\n\nThe price was pretty good, all of that was $39. In my opinion this is a little bit better than Mortons.", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 5, "date": "2010-09-21", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 3, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "n8w9HsGVK1aBZnUW8pskMg", "review_id": "s7m3eav8Kil_focIXeb1hw", "text": "This restaurant nails it. Technically speaking, the steak cuts get a b+, seasoning b+, cooking a- . The service was b+ \n\nHowever when you factor in the reasonable price (~27 per full steak entree including salad and fixins) and great atmosphere, it rounds a complete and excellent experience. Even though the service was imperfect, it was mainly because our waiter was overzealous to do a good job. Hard to hold that against him. Fantastic value - highly recommended, do not hesitate to come here.", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 5, "date": "2010-10-17", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "2HSgtnq66GhAzR7bnXStbw", "review_id": "ItK-gLDlEwMrTj9Qq_gkbQ", "text": "This is a perennial favorite of my husband and I. We love the atmosphere, the food, drinks and juicy slabs of beef we can choose from. Their patio also has a nice vibe to it when the weather cools off some, the fireplace prevents things from getting too chilly during our short fall and winter seasons. \n\nMy favorite has always been the prime rib, medium rare almost to the outer edges with a generous helping of horseradish and au jus. I also can't eat here without the Mushrooms Neptune. We each get an order to avoid sharing.", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-09-01", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "LMoHJR_UK9YbDSzDnxO6iA", "review_id": "TUeo_XV4U9KtU1q3SpSSvg", "text": "Amazing! \nFrom the moment I walked into the door I was greeted by the Hostess with a very warm smile and immediately you felt that you were in a great place. Our waiter was genuine and was happy to answer any questions that we had about the menu. He was very knowledgeable of the wine selection helping me to pick a wine to my exact liking. Never have I been so impressed with the service provided to me. Towards the end of our dinner I asked to speak the manager to offer all our compliments that we had for the the service we received. The manager received our compliments genuinely and we could tell that he was thankful for hearing everything we had to say. \nThe food was great. I could not have asked for more. The quality and taste of everything we had made me think that we were paying way too less. Overall, I can say that i will be returning to the Keg as often I possibly can and would recommend this establishment to anyone!", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-09-19", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "XqMkm-DD9VsdcKx2YVGhSA", "review_id": "Ec5Pc_4E41sGUHXk5r634A", "text": "The Keg is definitely one of my favorite chain steak joints around the valley. Always done the way you want it! I went during Restaurant Week so the price wasn't bad at all. Regardless, I didn't think the price of their meals were too expensive for steaks and lobsters. The Pecan Goat Cheese Sirloin was awesome! \n\nService is always good here. They generally have several very attractive hostesses seating you and then your wait staff is always well dressed and attentive. They do well with large groups!\n\nThe ambience is rustic with a steakhouse look and feel. Not old fashion by any means, but like a maze while walking around. - Enjoy!", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 4, "date": "2011-09-20", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 2, "cool": 2}, "user_id": "9Dp3fBOEQvZpYALtQ9C8HA", "review_id": "FzzlZzo_tUrMn-WmTko9lw", "text": "Came for Happy Hour ended up staying for dinner!\n\nAwesome Happy Hour Drinks and appetizers! I had the orange martini (okay... maybe a few.. like 3 lol) and another one I cant remember (probably because of the 3 orange martinis!) . My friend and I also had the fried green beans.. they were delicious. I couldnt stop eating them! \n\nWe then decided to stay for dinner and I had a sirloin with blue cheese and pecans. It was also very good. Service was great, table was decently quiet for a conversation, and prices were not bad considering the amount of alcohol consumed! Two of us.. 6+ martinis, 2 steak dinners, appetizers, bread.. $110 with tip.", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 4, "date": "2011-09-21", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "VPXgY9lGJF3XC4ZpusxNuA", "review_id": "Oc3ZHODuqwsRDf6pCnRZ5A", "text": "My husband and I went here for the Restaurant Week menu after having not visited in a while and left wondering why we hadn't. The food was fantastic. The menu is not very exciting, just your basic mid-range steak house fare with no real unique or imaginative dishes. But it is still really excellent food. Service was professional but not stuffy. They also have a great list of beers on tap and wines by the glass. I hope that we will not wait so long to return next time.", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 4, "date": "2011-09-24", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "z-nFzLSERYPvUSzBn-wqUw", "review_id": "wSgf6n0OWLVle6TwxQW6Lg", "text": "Amazing food and AMAZING service. Mat the server is my favorite! Will go there again and again.", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-09-25", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 3, "useful": 5, "cool": 3}, "user_id": "F6QsMoJdvtohlbnST-fDyQ", "review_id": "xCy6BrwEgQSHcYVCg4CM_w", "text": "Came here with my friend for her Birthday. They have the greatest Birthday deal in town. If you sign up on their website and give your Birthday information they will send you a Birthday certificate where you will get an entire free meal for your Birthday. It is quite amazing! The food is excellent and the staff very knowledgeable. It was the first time i had ever been here, but i can't wait to go back.", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 5, "date": "2011-10-03", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "effdZiyAUX3_57TPoO-qag", "review_id": "Y4q1G4fyWNqvBO_WxMmilQ", "text": "Stopped by for my birthday meal and received an excellent steak, excellent service and a free desert. The manager came by twice to make sure all was well......", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 5, "date": "2012-09-16", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "Psh8PaEh8c2Wn8YjwyGVvA", "review_id": "gEgTmdzPeYqhzqeVeX4Gjw", "text": "Christine's service was top notch, my first visit ever was a fantastic experience because of it. Great live lobster, great shrimp cocktail, great Billie miner pie!!!", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 5, "date": "2012-09-17", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "GMkF0yJWwFRVO9kiGOcojQ", "review_id": "ug5qeOomqkdzHlXhxXjjiA", "text": "Date night last night. Our server recommended his favorite bottle of wine.. some kind of blend. It was very good, and I don't usually go for blend wines. We both ordered french onion soup which was delicious. Then filet and crab for me, and filet and lobster for the woman. Everything was prepared well, minus the lobster which was overcooked and on the rubbery side. Prices are very reasonable here.. no prime meat, I don't think.. Our server made great suggestions, and did an awesome job. Would have been 4 stars if the lobster was prepared correctly-", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 3, "date": "2012-11-07", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "3lu2HIheuhWeu-ksnhYqOQ", "review_id": "1X3_fvgJ7zzd12Mm9YT-Rg", "text": "For a steakhouse, the steak was just okay, i ordered medium rare and portions of the steak were either medium or just rare.. The service was great and the sides were perfect, especially the twice baked potato. Just really wish the steak were better.", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 3, "date": "2013-09-09", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 2, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "t7Q29WBtZOY7kqDMKKWmhQ", "review_id": "IxjM08QXpVv9ZgGtPVav0g", "text": "The Keg is a nice place to go to for an upscale dinner date. The restaurant is high class inside. The lighting is dim which I like but I know some people don't. The booths and tables are big so you feel very comfortable. The bread they give you is soft and tastes great while you wait. I got a hamburger and I was very impressed how good it was. They have good fries as well. The price isn't that much higher than other places that aren't as upscale.", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 4, "date": "2013-10-24", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 3, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "hORy0O17fXiPM5g_ouY3-A", "review_id": "59s4gH_L1NJ2RyLwalVC8g", "text": "The keg is a really good steak house for a nice dinner. We went to eat here on a random Friday as a just because dinner. We had the Prime Rib and their au 'jus sauce is really good. I recommend the Caesar salad as the Wedge salad looks really plain. The veggies are really good especially the mushrooms. The bread is really good and holds you over until your food comes. Staff is friendly too!", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 4, "date": "2013-10-25", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "e7oKqaC3BbuwEiZVzKl8sg", "review_id": "aUds6UHkNmGuyXd5LbFapQ", "text": "Terrible service. Went in at 5:00 on a Wednesday for an early dinner. The place was not busy and we were told by the hostess that it would be just a few minutes because the servers were \"polishing the tables\". 20 minutes later, no one had come or gone, there were at least 5 employees milling around and we were still not seated. Had to walk out. Sitting in Firebirds as I write this.", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 1, "date": "2013-11-07", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "mV6NA9Nh3ZvD95fgRLY0Vw", "review_id": "VD7e1TUbifYqUs2kAfwPVg", "text": "Hands down our new place to frequent for dates and special occasions! Fantastic service, amazing food and a very classy and beautiful ambiance. Great job management! Your choice team people are wonderful! We had the bacon wrapped scallops, garlic cheese toast, Caesar salad, Share Lobster and prawn plate and a 10oz medium Filet Mignon. Everything was PERFECT! They even complimented us 2 glasses of champagne to toast us for our Anniversary. And on my birthday a delicious mocha type cream pie. I'm wowed by great service every time we dine at the Keg. If you haven't been here, get here!!", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 5, "date": "2013-11-19", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "ThwP5h2Bw-KhXH2tuBitXg", "review_id": "TO6oeqUerybt2KG1U8_EFA", "text": "I was here a several weeks ago with my girlfriend. We were seated promptly and the decor was nice. Our waiter was fantastic and I enjoyed his beer recommendation. We ordered surf and turf. I thought it lacked a bit of seasoning, so it just didn't blow me away; but the food was still ok.", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 3, "date": "2013-11-19", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "NcU1gYVAA9JEGcvzGMD_cw", "review_id": "kvWpbEA5qENjYjpE5HF7QA", "text": "We had Thanksgiving dinner at The Keg and normally I really like that restraint but not this time. We had 3:30 reservations and did not receive any food until 5:00. The food was tasteless, bland, not good. I gave 2 starts because the staff worked so hard and were all extremely friendly. Even the manager was serving drinks and running food. But as for the food it self, we could of probably got a better dinner at Denny's.", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 2, "date": "2013-11-29", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "36atraD20s_3MwuaBsimSw", "review_id": "5pozgvC0bjnnHQEN1p6pzg", "text": "Run of the mill steak and seafood at high end prices. Service mediocre. Stay at home rather than spend your money here. Not really worth a lengthy review.", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 3, "date": "2014-09-01", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "-LtCIuOruGox8hR-LbcmRw", "review_id": "tWeXqzblKL_POTIp67aYSw", "text": "I went here for happy hour and they had a good amount of beer specials. The staff was friendly, the atmosphere was very nice. I would probably come back here agae.", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-09-04", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "aeoL948dq7zXoaSRqQLjqw", "review_id": "v00Ff8_R8IodzhYc6VqpgQ", "text": "It was our first time coming here and I must say the appetizers are amazing as well as the drinks and service! One huge mistake in our meal though. Both my husband and I ordered the rib steak cooked the same way. His came out about a half inch thicker than mine and perfect med rare. Mine on the other hand looked more like a pork chop. Thin and gray throughout. Both steaks were covered in so much pepper they were hard to eat. Especially mine! We took them home and gave to dogs. Unfortunately they ate a very expensive cut of meat and not us. If it wasn't for this huge mistake everything else was definitely top quality!", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 1, "date": "2014-09-07", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "BvrLUJCWezAtOkoiG96RcA", "review_id": "6qeONHM5fIwOum23Ah10UA", "text": "Attended a meeting this week for work and was so looking forward to a good steak. I have never tried The Keg and I can safely say I will never go back. I ordered the rib eye along with a few more of my work friends and all of our steaks were over cooked. I asked for my potato toppings on the side and never received. Very disappointing. The best part, the creme br\u00fbl\u00e9e.", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 1, "date": "2014-09-13", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "AyyqLVAKDsQj0YW6y2yVpA", "review_id": "OsdpBlizX3UaaXuNYXY_uA", "text": "My husband and I have been here many times, but the experience we had on 9/7/14 was the worst. We went to use my husbands birthday certificate, we arrived after 8pm.\nAdrian was our server and after we gave him the certificate things went downhill from there. I guess he must of been calculating less of a tip from the start. I was not that hungry so I ordered an appetizer and a side for my meal, my hubby ordered the 10oz prime rib. He left with an attitude, didn't check back with us until we were on our last bites, never filled my water and when it came to dessert he asked us if we had any room left. When we said no he didn't even say that a birthday dessert was included.\nI urged my husband not to leave a full tip. Bill was $41.50 minus promo of $24.00 plus tax came to $18.92. He left a $8.08 tip. I hope all servers are not like Adrian, if you go ask not to sit in his section. I know someday we will return, but not to see Adrian.\nVery disappointed.", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 2, "date": "2014-09-15", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 4, "cool": 2}, "user_id": "LDreqHkIUcAaa_Km8z-j4A", "review_id": "kK6fJJFIyY6JQ7Ri9Vbx6w", "text": "I took my wife out for our anniversary dinner here. This was the first time for both of us. The restaurant is very clean and you get a nice homey feel inside. They have a nice sized patio if you care to eat outside. We came in around 8:45 on a Friday night and we were seated promptly. I started out with a Pacifico beer and my wife had a Belini from the bar. We started out with an order of crab cakes and Mushrooms Neptune.\n\nThe Crab Cakes were very good and were filling. You get 2 to an order and a side of their house tartar sauce that was a great accompaniment. The Mushrooms Neptune is a mixture of cream cheese & crab stuffed inside mushrooms and baked. These were really good as well. You get 6 to an order. A dinner roll came with it and I'm not sure why? It was a plain ol' dinner roll, no butter or anything. It really had no purpose of being there really.\n\nFor dinner I ordered the N.Y. Strip with a twice baked potato and added a lobster tail to the meal. The steak was prepared perfectly (I ordered medium) and seasoned the way a steak should be. The lobster tail was succulent with the drawn butter and the twice baked potato did not disappoint either. My wife had the 10 oz. prime rib dinner (medium) with a twice baked potato and onion strings and that was out of the park as well.\n\nThe service was first class and at the end of our meal, the manager came over with 2 complimentary glasses of champagne to celebrate our anniversary and I thought that was a nice touch too. The Keg won me over and I would have no reservations going back. The prices are a little higher than other chain steakhouses but you'll find out quickly why and it's not a bad thing. When my father-in-law or parents come out to visit, I will definitely treat them to a wonderful dining experience.", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-09-26", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "cffOCa0IhyK5HpZVea86FA", "review_id": "9ZtEeyl_bByYTWYn8q4V4g", "text": "Food and service both good", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-10-08", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "sq4iRZnDgTGW1eLDVoJokg", "review_id": "Xxlr-RO3d-LMwk4MseUmkQ", "text": "Went to the Keg with 4 family members. We had several different menu item. All of us agreed that the baseball cut sirloin was the best. Mine was a little overcooked but came out perfect the second time.\nDesserts (creme brule) was a little charred. Overall good experience. I did get $25.00 off for being in their bday club. Dessert not included. Well, included, at my expense. Great atmosphere, quiet place. Professional service.", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-10-12", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "WSvzIuPVZRkYUC2oU_mJPA", "review_id": "rDjB7eiYCaLsWKA5K3rksw", "text": "The second time around was just as good. Went back with a larger group and were seated in the dining area (very \"cozy\", by the fireplace). Ordered a variety of drinks and wines which were all good and everyone's meats were prepared as ordered and melt-in-your-mouth delicious! I was a bit nervous about the person who ordered chicken, but they said it was really good too. The kid's meal came with a little \"appetizer\" tray of fruits, veggies and dip and crackers (nice touch!). Server was attentive, knowledgeable and friendly. The Keg did not disappoint!", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-10-13", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "fyTMJjgE1S3Z0lGn4ap_Ew", "review_id": "kgnh6U28BUoTG_nXtWmUZw", "text": "I have nothing bad to day about this place. The service was very prompt and they made sure my glass was always full. The food was great I had the prime rib and it was amazing. The wine selection by the glass was limiting the calamari and carpaccio was amazing. \nThe salad was good. Some of the clientele was a bit snooty but well cheap entertainment. There were lots of little kids in the place. Some of them were terable anf crying. Leave your crying kids at home or take em to chucky cheese", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-10-27", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "LHjiREftxNGA3Yt0kpuzxg", "review_id": "XsJxv2LbcLhSJactUkRldA", "text": "Wife and I went there this past weekend. I ordered the NY strip and she ordered the chicken. Both dishes were good, but not great. We felt like we were rushed and the service was sub par. I would definitely recommend a run of the mill steakhouse of this high priced joint in a heartbeat.", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 3, "date": "2014-11-19", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "3jVMvuQg_uyimNHxOcJIpQ", "review_id": "zTk4cdG9ZEvqxlQugz9oJA", "text": "Steak was good but I waited too long. Waiter said that they usually take 20-25 minutes to cook it. My stomach was not so patient though.", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 2, "date": "2014-11-21", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 3, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "bABCAlKA7wT55B74Iufg8Q", "review_id": "_0sZT7WQd6CZcP1WUR2bTg", "text": "We went to The Keg for a special occasion - a friend's anniversary! When she made reservations she let them know it was her anniversary - when they arrived - there was a Happy Anniversary card on the table - signed by the wait staff! It was so sweet!\n\nOur server was on his A game for most of the service. Very attentive for the most part - till the food came, then he kind of forgot about us. \n\n5 of 6 people at the table ordered Prime Rib - everyone enjoyed a well cooked and succulent slab of meat! We all got the combo that came with salad and a side. Great meal at a great price! \n\nThe 6th person, odd man out, decided to get the 1/2 rack of ribs - he was disappointed. The size of the 1/2 rack was more like a 1/4 rack of ribs - the bones after the meat was taken off looked like chicken wing bones... so sad. We did get to express the concern to the manager - she was very apologetic and offered to fix the issue in several ways - bringing out another 1/2 rack or some prime rib... or even comp the meal. Great work on her part. \n\nMy advice - stick with the steak! Prime rib is great and so is their baseball steak - had it before! They also usually give you a piece of cake or dessert if it is a special occasion.", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 4, "date": "2014-11-25", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "WcCMNCqe5w6kxVddzPYKoA", "review_id": "x5GPQCxy8rvTxdEJlvhssg", "text": "Every time I come here I am not disappointed. This is my choice for every birthday, celebration or fancy night out. Although it maybe expensive, it is definitely worth it! Their Filet Mignon wrapped in bacon is amazing. Have that with the Cr\u00e8me Br\u00fbl\u00e9e as dessert and you will be completely satisfied!", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-09-03", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "nxmdB_W6GdciI4ullEY4Uw", "review_id": "BAZe9-5Oxt-k340gHIChWQ", "text": "I agree with a few others on here that said it's a good meal but not great. I still give it 4 stars because the Keg atmosphere is hard to beat.", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-09-10", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "SCuJeXt4NP11-zsBmDUxKA", "review_id": "d3w3sJppqLmUb3P5XDji3g", "text": "Just when I thought I was going to be doomed to eat fast type restuarants during my stay in Chandler, AZ I stumbled across this gem. If you like a good steak, this is the place to go. \n\nI had baked salmon cooked exactly how I asked for it. It was super tasty, moist and seasoned perfectly. I also went back another night to try their steaks and I was NOT disappointed. Ribeye steak was phenomenal.\n\nA must if you are visiting or a local.", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-09-21", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "kGQqX3ULGZb93drs6y8WeA", "review_id": "COrnWqv7iXQ2A-FmNEksrA", "text": "Always have the best experience here. My steak is always perfect and the prime rib is fabulous. The staff is always helpful and polite. My wife and I always enjoy a night out and we spend our time at the Keg!", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-09-30", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "iRrm79lV-OW2Plybl7H_bg", "review_id": "9LMFrdYlZXIhZaF_QO4oIQ", "text": "The best dinner and service we have ever had! This was my hubbys and my 4 year anniversary. We had several different servers wish us a happy evening, and they even have us a card! Our server Nick Rocca was amazing! He guided us through the menu and was very attentive even though the restaurant was busy. To make the evening more special that brought us a glass of complimentary champagne and wished us many more years of happiness to come. The food was incredible ! From the bacon wrapped scallops to the creme br\u00fbl\u00e9e everything was on point and unforgettable. The seafood was better than what we have had at the Salt Cellar. I highly encourage you to come here and be spoiled!", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-10-06", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "ke9MlE92n52Yl5k6CXJjIA", "review_id": "qorNUUdJa6xvVCGPSb9LFQ", "text": "Best steak I've had in a while. I had the blue cheese crusted filet mignon and the wife had the sirloin off the kegs cuts menu. The meat came out exactly as we ordered it and was awesome. Service was super quick as well. I'd like to see more craft beer choices but I can't complain about my experience. It was worth every penny if you're worried about price go to outback for an inferior product. I will be back!", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-11-04", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "Bb_7KMBO6xR0BkgN6K9QWA", "review_id": "oyDWKN5UrfziO9TMWGjMAg", "text": "Excellent steakhouse overall.\n\nThe servers here are very friendly (and markedly pretty while being appropriately dressed)...our first server James actually recommended that we sit in the lounge area for drinks even though it meant passing us off to a different server. The seating and atmosphere was great - comfy, chill, and welcoming. Definitely a great place for a drink.\n\nWe all ordered steaks, I tried all of them, and I honestly have nothing I could possibly complain about. All of them were delivered at the right temps and were impressively delicious.\n\nOnly complaint was the well drinks. Watered down with chlorine water.\n\nStill a well-earned 4 stars.", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 4, "date": "2015-11-04", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 1, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "FBCrBnL3tg07uv25UfPlHg", "review_id": "dndSbR-no_AepeOA0ojniQ", "text": "Went there for my husbands birthday last night. First time for him. Second time for me. First off.. the staff is wonderful. Our waiter, Bernardo, was friendly, funny and helpful. My husband ordered the prime rib which they were unfortunately out of. He ordered the fillet instead. My comment was awww.. that is what he wanted..and it's his birthday. Didn't think anything of it until the manager came over and said, since it was my husbands birthday and they didn't have his first choice, his meal was on the house. Wow.. did not see that coming nor did we expect it. It was, however, very much appreciated. My husband also suffers from Celiac disease. So gluten is a big no no (they have a great GF menu btw.) After we finished our meal Bernardo comes over to us and lets us know they usually provide a dessert for customers who come in for their birthday. Let's us know what his GF choices were. The steaks were some of the best I've had. The service was great. You can tell the friendly banter between the staff makes it a great place to work too.", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-11-08", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 2, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "bqIl82S8vBXL2kF-uOHEmA", "review_id": "gMUGODNvrhh71-mc6cIg4w", "text": "WOW talk about customer service! Came here for my engagement, was such an awesome experience and an amazing meal. Danny Sanchez the gm came over and was more the gracious, he went above and beyond into making our very special night truly amazing. Couldn't thank him enough. Our server Matt was also really genuine and nice, will definitely be coming back here more and would recommend The Keg to anyone!", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 5, "date": "2015-11-13", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 2, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "VDkGxdf0bmMwIiLyEnXVeQ", "review_id": "vIEY0spdLjUc6dKGuSTvDw", "text": "Rarely have I seen such a breakdown on serving fundamentals. \n\nMy parents & I stopped by here on Thanksgiving Day, since it was the only place that we liked that was open. Every other experience here before had been a 4 star or better, but that was years ago. Also know that the restaurant had people, but was not busy at all on the bar side. The restaurant side was reservation only for lunch and had people, but not busy as well.\n\nI unfortunately forgot our server's name, but she was a 20 something female. She was quick to great us with waters. When we were not ordering alcohol that is when things took a turn. She took a bit to bring the iced teas out & did not bring sweetener. My father had to ask several times before we received it. When she finally took our order that was the death blow. We ordered three wedge salads & I had the sirloin added to mine. We have a big, early Thanksgiving dinner and did not want to get stuffed. After that we could not get her to come by for anything. We had to ask other servers for drink refills (I hate doing that). After about 45 minute wait for our salads (mind you the place was not busy), we received my mom's wedge, mine with the sirloin, but my dad's was missing. She forgot to ring his up. So the food runner got his within 5 minutes, amazing how quickly they can get them out when stuff is messed up. Going back to the food drop, we all still had empty drinks & no silverware. When they brought our silverware out, they never brought out a steak knife; I had to ask for that as well. \n\nFinally the taste of the food. The lettuce was super wet, so much so that the dressing wouldn't stick. My steak was almost room temp and the steak knife had a hard time cutting through it. \n\nMy dad got a little snarky and made a comment about how bad things were to one of the other servers trying to help out. Alexa, the manager, finally stopped by. She asked us how everything was going, mom & dad started going off. I stopped them and spoke calmly to her. She ended up apologizing for things not being great and comped our meal (for three it probably was $40). She did a 4-1/2 star job. The server was so bad & the food was not good, that I could not justify over a 2 star rating. \n\nWill I be back? I will give them another shot when I am in town since the other experiences have been 4 star or better.", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 2, "date": "2015-11-26", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "o0Or-mJ1eJpvQHNpCtFsIw", "review_id": "pv8i8hsWIAMH2Yw-ykrojg", "text": "While normally a fan of the Keg, very disappointed today. Went there for Thanksgiving as they advertised a 3 course turkey dinner for $27. Went and ordered such dinner what they forgot to tell you was that the turkey was some sort of processed mystery meat turkey roll which when sliced was both white and dark meat. It was the strangest thing I have ever seen and tasted like rubber mostly. Can not believe they could not just roast some real turkeys and serve. That along with frozen mashed potatoes and some weird stuffing resulted in the worst Thanksgiving dinner I have ever had. In the future they should just stick with steaks and stay out of the Thanksgiving business. \n Thanks Keg for making this holiday one to forget. Please close on Christmas.", "business_id": "xMK01ZbVUYLLoyqoeWAIVw", "stars": 1, "date": "2015-11-26", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 2, "useful": 2, "cool": 3}, "user_id": "4E_nPWw89FLFHdNsEgMH-g", "review_id": "Y8TndUWBQvj94LGDY8N59Q", "text": "Red Lobster can sometimes get a bad rap, but I had a blast there this past Friday night. We got there around 6:30pm and the line was out the door. No biggie as we had nothing else to do and we wanted the endless shrimp. Plus my friend had never been to a Red Lobster and it has been about 2 years since my last visit. So after waiting only about 30 mins we got seated and were on our way to pigging out. \n\nFirst off, let me give a special shout out to our waitress Carina! She was very sweet and took great care of us. Thank you Carina! \n\nSo we both knew that we wanted the endless shrimp meal but being the hungry people that we are, we also ordered the appetizer that had stuffed mushrooms, fried clams, and bacon wrapped scallops. YUM! Everything came out piping hot and was very good. I mean bacon wrapped scallops. HELLO! Best of both worlds. The cheddar baked biscuits were still as good as I remembered and fresh out the oven. My friend loved them and was very excited that they brought out more once we had downed the first batch. Oh I also have to give a special mention to the Triple Berry Sangria that they now offer. WOW! Now that is some yummy sangria. Almost as good as mine (LOL) but seriously very good. \n\nNow on to the endless shrimp, we each got to start off with two choices so I chose the teriyaki shrimp and the cajun shrimp and my friend had the garlic shrimp and the coconut shrimp bites. They both come with your standard salad and side of french fries, mashed potato, baked potato, rice or veggies. My friend bumped it up and ordered the lobster baked potato. Needless to say that was one of our favorites as well. \n\nSo back to the shrimp. OMG they were so good, and as soon as Carina bought out or dinner she asked us if we wanted to go ahead and get started on another order of shrimp so that way, but the time we may be done with our first order, more shrimp would already be on the way. She did this for us each time and I finally threw in the towel after my 2nd order but my friend ended up having about five orders. Carina let us know that our first order has ten shrimp in each dish and the orders after have about 7 or 8. Weird but hey, keeps the waste down I suppose. I was beyond stuffed when it was all said and done and very happy. The head manager came over and said hello and to make sure that we were happy with our meals. Very nice. Needless to say, it was a great time and the food was very good.", "business_id": "YgRCJtt7pGvwlb9Ktumeeg", "stars": 4, "date": "2009-10-12", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 1, "useful": 4, "cool": 1}, "user_id": "Ps1Db9zOatoF_76FZNO5CQ", "review_id": "i4f51w-gslFNe75CIUW23Q", "text": "I thought I was done with Red Lobster when I got rid of my ex. Mind you I don't hate the chain but I have never been really impressed. However the birthday girl wanted their crab legs so off we went.\n\nArriving about 6:00 for an early dinner we were given a place in line which took a little over 30 minutes to get seated. There is only so long a 5 year old can keep occupied with the lobsters in the tank. If it had just been L and I we would have taken a seat at the high tops that were part of the bar even though she doesn't drink. When were seated we were told it had been like this since about 3:30. Starting just after we were seated it started getting quieter as fewer tables were occupied but we noticed as we left about 8:00 that with about a fourth of the tables empty there were still about 4 parties waiting to be seated.\n\nApparently one of the reasons they were slammed early was the all you can eat shrimp which two of us partook of. The women chose to build their own feast and the kids got chicken fingers and linguine shrimp respectively. To start with us adults got lobster stuffed mushrooms which were pretty good. One of the supposedly good things about a chain in this price range is the predictability, tasty but not great, of the food and overall we were not disappointed. The let downs were the crab claws J went there for, the coconut shrimp both of the women ordered and the blue cheese dressing. The stand outs were the salmon and key lime pie L ordered (and I got to share :-)). I wasn't noticing the amount of salt with oils as I ate but after I got home I had 4 big glasses of water.\n\nThe service was spot on the entire meal. K was not wanting for any of his 6 shrimp orders (oink). There were no mistakes and every thing for the two kids was given priority. That's pretty good for a chain, especially as we were a party of six spread across a 60 year span.\n\nGiven my past history with the chain I would have given them a 2 but this experience earns them a solid 3.", "business_id": "YgRCJtt7pGvwlb9Ktumeeg", "stars": 3, "date": "2010-09-28", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "LusAw6vTDC7KAfbuClMReA", "review_id": "hEwadZ-Lm2GuzoMEh8nMXg", "text": "Dining in Red Lobster is dining in my comfort zone. Going back to 1977, I have been a Red Lobster fan. In my early forties, I continue to be a Red Lobster fan. In 35 years I never got tired of it. So, it is with little surprise that when we visited Phoenix that we would dine in a Red Lobster.\n\n For whatever reason, the Cactus Road Red Lobster (near Paradise Valley Mall) was dead on a Friday night. It was the first time in a while that when I visited a Red Lobster that a wait to be seated was nonexistent. If there was a wait, I'm sure that the usual lobster tank would have occupied me for a few minutes.\n\nAs soon as I saw the \"All You Can Eat Shrimp special\" on the menu, I was decided. The shrimp special is no joke. There is a choice of four shrimps including shrimp scampi, fried shrimp, and shrimp with linguini. I'll be the first to admit that Red Lobster seafood isn't Wolfgang Puck Gang quality at the same time that I'll admit that it is far better than frozen foods seafood or a burger served in a casual restaurant chain. It wasn't just the all you can eat shrimp and bottomless soda that makes this a good deal for approximately $20. It was also the salad with dressing and house bread. \n\n Red Lobster's menu features many entrees that are affordable. I just happened to hit Red Lobster when they featured the \"All You Can Eat Shrimp.\" If it had been another time of the year, I would have ordered shrimp linguini, which comes with a salad and bread. \n\nI had zero complaints about the service. Our Waitress was prompt with the refills at the exact time that she did not rush us.\n\n Dining in Red Lobster is dining in my comfort zone. As long as I am living and have some green in my pocket, I will return to a Red Lobster throughout the year.", "business_id": "YgRCJtt7pGvwlb9Ktumeeg", "stars": 4, "date": "2012-11-24", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "_LsbT_uW0UE6rhsWiAIrsg", "review_id": "ExPcjRKuEF8BaE9tlrzXww", "text": "awful, service awful and food is gross. seafood is not fresh at all.", "business_id": "YgRCJtt7pGvwlb9Ktumeeg", "stars": 1, "date": "2013-10-16", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "4CgusCZkipvUhvBZrRD46w", "review_id": "4xXDcaEvVevVEaQnx8bo6g", "text": "I hadn't been to Red Lobster in quite a while because I don't enjoy waiting a long time for a seat and they don't take reservations. Tonight I had a craving for shrimp and there aren't many places that know how to fry shrimp properly and without a ton of breading. Red Lobster has light breading and their frying technique is excellent. The shrimp did not disappoint. We also ordered fried flounder which was very good. The sides were great and the biscuits were just amazing. Had the apple crostada with ice cream for dessert. Everything was great... especially our server Nate who did not skip a beat. Nice job Nate! See u soon......", "business_id": "YgRCJtt7pGvwlb9Ktumeeg", "stars": 5, "date": "2013-11-24", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "40-dPni2cbqyYZ21OHN63w", "review_id": "hr-mmre3v5EhdTWtpTHp2Q", "text": "Just came back from the Endless Shrimp special, and not only am I stuffed, they sent us home with even more shrimp, and the fixin's, too. Service from Mike B. & Alika could not have been better and everything we tried (which is to say, every variety they offered) was cooked just right. The three of us had around five varieties each, with seconds and even thirds on some (and the portions were _not_ skimpy). Now, we're not big, truck-drivin' mamas, just three ladies who lunch, and we made a bargain and an afternoon of it. So, how much shrimp, plus salad, sides, and biscuits, can _you_ put away for just $16.99? Endless Shrimp is one special of a special, even by Red Lobster standards.", "business_id": "YgRCJtt7pGvwlb9Ktumeeg", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-09-11", "type": "review"}
{"votes": {"funny": 0, "useful": 0, "cool": 0}, "user_id": "V5Wi3BMzpCcYjgtASqfd_w", "review_id": "ikwyPEhS_GGi0f9zjTYcnA", "text": "I am not sure where the low reviews come from, but I have always had solid service, tasty food and everything anyone could want from a restaurant experience. Sure there can be a wait during their promos (like Endless Shrimp) but, think, when there are lines out the door even for early dinner almost every time I've been there and waitstaff moving back and forth to quickly serve their tables, you can bet that the food and service there is first rate. Sure it is a \"corporate-like\" chain restaurant, but some people like that and the expectations of having a great experience there each and every time makes Red Lobster a popular place with a good business model. I have never had a problem. Not. Ever.", "business_id": "YgRCJtt7pGvwlb9Ktumeeg", "stars": 5, "date": "2014-09-18", "type": "review"}