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Home > Blogs > Taste: Dayton food and restaurants > Archives > 2009 > February > 13 > Entry
Restaurant Week: Our reviews and yours
Note: Click here for the entry about Valentine’s Day Restaurant Specials.
Have you been out for Restaurant Week? Share your experience by posting a comment. Click on “Post Your Comment” below to get started.
Jay’s Restaurant
Jay’s Restaurant Week menu excelled at the bookends, with very fine first and third courses. On the bright side, the restaurant’s special three-course monthly-special dinner is even better than the Restaurant Week offerings, for a scant $1.86 more — and it’s available through the end of February.
The Restaurant Week appetizer choice of Wild Mushroom Strudel with Smoked Salmon and Boursin Cheese, served over dressed greens, was spectacular. The mushrooms tucked into a puff-pastry strudel are creamy and earthy, almost addictive.
The Red Wine-Braised Short Ribs entree was a generous portion, packing plenty of beefy flavor, but was a bit dry. The Steamed Sole in Parchment Paper was a less generous portion, and needed a heftier kick than what was delivered from the garlic curry butter.
The desserts ended the meal on a high note, with the signature Chocolate Mousse reveling in lovely decadence, while the Pecan and Carrot Cake Roulade, complemented by a large scoop of vanilla ice cream, was plenty satisfying.
While not part of the Restaurant Week menu, the January-February special is very much a Restaurant Week-style special, with its three-course format for a fixed price of $21.95. The Caramelized Pear and Roasted Cauliflower Brie Soup is a rich and robust winter warmer, and the Cedar-Planked Salmon was cooked perfectly, the salmon moist. Dessert choices include Key Lime Pie, the aforementioned Chocolate Mousse, or Pecan Pie. The Key Lime is one of the sweeter versions, and delivers a fine ending to the meal. The special — Flat-iron steak is the other entree option — will be offered through the end of February.
Wellington Grille
The Beavercreek restaurant served up a satisfying meal with solid service.
The first course of Roasted Red Pepper Hummus with what tasted like homemade pita chips was generous and well made, a slightly better choice than the Spinach Salad. Veal Parmesan benefitted from the tangy house-made marinara sauce, though the fettuccine noodles served underneath were cooked just short of al dente. The Potato-Crusted Tilapia got a flavor boost from the chipotle aioli.
Desserts were a highlight. The aromas from the fragrant Melrose Apple Crisp a la Mode arrived at the table before the steaming dessert did, and the first couple spoonfuls of the rich Butterscotch Pudding topped with Johnny Walker Red Scotch packed an alcoholic punch that was balanced by the creamy pudding.
The Winds
The Winds, a relatively late arrival to the Restaurant Week fold, hit a home run with its RW menu. Simply put, there were no bad choices.
The salad featured the unlikely companions of slices of blood orange, roasted beets and sliced fennel bulb, all topped with feta cheese from Ohio cheesemaker Blue Jacket Dairy. The flavors melded beautifully. Garlic soup topped with a cheesy crouton and roasted red peppers was creamy and satisfying, the roasted garlic complementing but not dominating the soup’s flavors.
Roasted duck — a leg and thigh — came to the table a deep mahogany color worthy of a magazine cover, and the meat was earthy, tender and succulent, accented by a cider sauce. The other entree choice was Sauteed Skate with Mushroom Vinaigrette, a lightly breaded, moist and mild fish pumped up by the tangy mushrooms sauteed with vinegar and fresh herbs.
Dessert choices included a Buttermilk Panna Cotta topped with diced pears poached in a ginger syrup or a Blackout cake that delivered rich chocolate flavor in layers of cake and ganache.
Meals like this make diners appreciate Restaurant Week — and also make us impatient for the next one.
Carvers Steaks & Chops
I jump-started my Winter Restaurant Week at Carvers Steaks & Chops, which last year underwent a transition from a chain-owned restaurant to an independent. Carvers’ Restaurant Week menu had plenty of options, from multiple salads to entree choices that included strip steak, filet mignon, tilapia oscar, salmon or chicken breast.
The salad of romaine lettuce with blue cheese, sweet onion, roasted red peppers, bacon and balsamic vinaigrette was fresh and generous, as were the other salad options that included mixed greens with goat cheese, pine nuts and pinot noir vinaigrette, and a spinach salad with sliced apples, dried cranberries, sliced almonds and honey dijon vinaigrette.
The best of the entrees was the filet mignon — fork-tender and cooked as ordered, served with a port shallot sauce that elevated the flavor. The strip steak was also spot-on, with the right amount of marbling, though it was a bit overseasoned with salt and pepper for its thickness. The tilapia oscar had fine flavor, though the promised lump crabmeat was sparse. The prime rib had plenty of beefy flavor and benefitted from the au jus served alongside.
One of the three dessert options — the muscat creme brulee — was unavailable on Restaurant Week’s opening night. The regular creme brulee’s crust lacked the crackle that defines the dish, but the flavor brought a satisfying end to the meal.
Meadowlark
Elizabeth Wiley, chef-owner of The Meadowlark, was an early and enthusiastic supporter of the Restaurant Week concept. She came up with something distinctive again this winter, working with Dorothy Lane Market and its pork suppliers to secure some pork belly, a cut that has a fairly high proportion of fat and when prepared properly, can be quite flavorful and tender. Wiley braised the pork in soy sauce and spices, then topped it with cilantro and served with stir-fried vegetables and rice. The dish was a winner, though it may be off-putting to those who eat only lean meat.
The Crispy Portabello Steak with Risotto and Red Wine Sauce entree option also excelled, with a large, breaded mushroom fried to crispy perfection, its interior still plenty moist and meaty-tasting. You don’t have to be vegetarian to appreciate what this restaurant can do with portabellos. The third entree choice, Mahi-mahi with Skillet-crisped Vegetable Hash and Hollandaise, was cooked well, the fish cooked through and still moist.
Among the appetizers, the Mussels Steamed in Thai Coconut Broth will leave you wanting more, and will tempt you to drink the juices right out of the small bowl. The Chipotle Pumpkin Enchilada delivered a hint of heat, and the Frites and Beets — a signature appetizer for the restaurant— were excellent.
Dessert brought two choices: a light, not-too-sweet Lemon Chess Pie or a Chocolate Coconut Meringue Cake that delivers on the coconut and chocolate promise. Both were fine endings to a Restaurant Week meal.
Combine the quality of the dishes with a well-chosen, reasonably priced wine list, and Meadowlark rose to the top of the list of Restaurant Week choices. It was a fine three-course meal for $20.09.
El Meson
El Meson allowed diners to choose whether they wanted soup, salad or dessert — choose any two plus an entree for the Restaurant Week special. And in this case, the soup was not to be missed, nor was the dessert. Asopao is a Cuban Chicken-and-rice soup made with ham, capers, tomatoes, onions, and cheese, and it’s a robust blend that in larger quantity could easily make for a main course.
We sampled two of the three entrees: Sopon a la Marinera, a medley of shrimp, mahi-mahi, scallops and plenty of tender calamari bathed in a tomato-white wine sauce, was the best choice; and the stew-like Ropa Vieja, which the restaurant described as a “Cuban-Miami fusion” dish of shredded beef with red and green peppers served over garlic rice. It’s a satisfying winter dish but lacked the interest of the seafood entree.
The restaurant offered its signature dessert: Dulce de Leche con Moras, a delicious dollop of Colombian Caramel topped with Blackberries and whipped cream. The tart, refreshing berries cut the creamy sweetness of the caramel to create a deceptively simple, but very fine, ending to a Restaurant Week meal.
Permalink | Comments (79) | Post your comment | Categories: Restaurant reviews
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By JF
August 3, 2009 9:56 AM | Link to this
On Friday night, my wife and I went to Dukes for Restaurant Week 2009 and were left with a bad taste in our mouth (literally)! My wife, who is a vegetarian choose to order the “Spagetti with Plain Sauce” and proceeded to find pieces of ground beef in the sauce. We brought this to the attention of our waitress who went to the manager about this. Apparently their “Plain Sauce” is the same sauce used to cook their meatballs in, just served sans meatballs. I could see the waitress speaking to the manager, who refused to come to our table to speak to us, refused to comp ANYTHING on our bill (including our drinks). I paid for the bill, but was quite amazed that a new restaurant in town would have such poor service and attitue to it’s customers. With the economy being tight, my wife and I could only go out once this time to support the effort and it was a shame that this year it was such a negative experience.
By MARIE
April 16, 2009 1:12 PM | Link to this
COCO’S BISTRO IS A GREAT PLACE TO HAVE A WONDERFUL MEAL, AND EXPERIENCE. THE FOOD IS EXCELLENT AND I HIGHLY RECOMMEND YOU TO TRY THIS FINE ESTABLISHMENT, YOU WILL BE IMPRESSED, I WAS. GIVE IT A TRY.
By kim
March 26, 2009 10:27 AM | Link to this
Ihave eaten a cocos bistro alot of times, and I have yet to get a bad meal. Everything is excellent, the service is friendly and very good. I highly recommend to try this fine restaurant. The atomsphere is very nice, cozy, and very clean. The only thing you will find hard to choice what to have off the menu, as everything is good. I’ll be back.
By Kim
February 27, 2009 10:22 AM | Link to this
Well, this meal was quite a let down. I personally think that Thai Nine runs hot and cold anyway. They are never consistent. I had the Shrimp Blanket for an appetizer. It was just okay. For the main entree I had the Shrimp w/Asparagus and got a pretty high spice level and it wasn’t spicy at all and just tasted like regular American food. For dessert I had the Green Tea ice cream which was good. I could have saved my money and just had a dessert. I forget the glass of wine I tried. It was probably a Pinot Noir.
By Kim
February 27, 2009 10:15 AM | Link to this
A group of us went to Pacchia’s during the second week on a Friday. I had the Fifth Street Salad, Grilled New York Strip, and the Red Velvet Cake for dessert. It was all good.
By Kim
February 27, 2009 10:11 AM | Link to this
On the second week I enjoyed another great meal at Bahn Mai Thai. The spicy Laitine Chicken Salad w/ Sticky Rice was excellent. I was so spicy and I love spicy. I had a glass of the Rawson’s Chardonnay and it was excellent. I had the Giant Grilled Lemon Grass Prawns. They were good, but just hard to get off the stick. The desert was the snickers sundae and it was to die for. It had some warm spring rolls with chocolate and nuts in them. Yum !!! This was an exceptional meal.
By Kim
February 27, 2009 10:04 AM | Link to this
A friend and I went to Jay’s on Monday night. She had the Wild Mushroom Strudel and I had the Ceasar’s Salad. We both enjoyed them. We both had the Braised Short Ribs and they were very tender. For desert we each had the chocolate mousse. I had to take mine with me because I had a meeting to get to.
By Kim
February 27, 2009 10:00 AM | Link to this
Sunday, I did my usual Carver’s dinner. Someone was supposed to join me but called to cancel. I had the mixed greens w/goat cheese and pinot noir vinaigrette. The salad was very tasty. I loved the dressing, it was just sweet enough and very flavorful. I had the Filet Mignon and it was very tender. A baby could have eaten that with no teeth and the Port Shallot sauce was wonderful. The special creme brulee was wonderful. It was new. The service was excellent and I would definitely give it a thumbs up.
By Evelyn
February 12, 2009 8:18 PM | Link to this
We went to Benhams for Restraunt week. Wow its was wonderful. The service was great as was dinner. We both had the Steak with peppersauce and excellent homemade choc cake for desert best we ever had. The server was very nice and took great care of us. We want to thank the staff and owner, we are so happy to see them doing so well and still going strong. Keep up the good work. We will be back soon. Sincerly Evelyn
By David
February 12, 2009 6:14 PM | Link to this
went to the melting pot on last day of RW, best experience ever. the food was fantastic, service was the best ever, and the dessert is outta of this world. their wine cellar is unbelievable if you like win which me and my wife love. great selection. but for the money, we loved everything that we had that night and can’t wait to go back after RW is over to try out. oh, and the private booths is a plus.
By Bill
February 12, 2009 4:01 PM | Link to this
My wife and I found the Hickory Bar-b-que on Brown St offering a great deal. A 4 piece jumbo shrimp cocktail accompanied by a fresh salad, 5 oz. filet, baked potato and cheesecake with cherries provided an ideal meal. We’ll be back!!
By Shelly
February 11, 2009 12:17 PM | Link to this
For the last night of restaurant week, we chose to go to Benham’s. I had really been looking forward to the meal, because of so many good things I had heard from friends who had previously been employed by Benham’s. There were five of us in our party. We were seated right away, but it was quite some time before our server greeted us. She had a party of ten next to us, so we remained patient while she tended to them. We ordered drinks, and they along with the restaurant week appetizer were brought in a timely manner. We all ordered from the restaurant week menu. Three of us ordered salads, and we had one soup. The salad was supposed to be a warm apple and bacon salad. What came was a bed of mixed field greens, with a sickeningly sweet vinegar based dressing. There was plenty of bacon, but only two chunks of apple on each salad hardly qualifies using the word apple in the title. Also with the salads was a bread basket with exactly one small piece of bread for each person at the table. We had a baby in our party, and she was not given utensils, a plate to eat on or even offered a drink. It was quite some time before we saw our server again. I would have ordered another split of wine, but I was never offered another drink. My son ordered a Coke, and when he finished it, it was never refilled again. When our server returned, it was with our entrees, and our salad plates hadn’t even been cleared! She thrust my dinner plate towards me and said, “trade ya”. Is this fine dining? I think not! Everyone at the table had to pick up their salad plates before she could serve their dinner, and we paid 20.09 a head for this! Our entree was pretty good. We all had a New York strip steak with a whiskey peppercorn sauce. The sauce needed to be beefier and more peppery. The mashed potatoes and winter vegetable medley were great. After our entrees were finished we sat unattended for a good twenty minutes. When she finally returned to clear our plates, she was told what desserts we wanted, but it was another fifteen minutes before they came out, and when she brought them out, she brought the wrong ones! We didn’t bother correcting her, because we were beyond ready to leave at that point. Three of us got a Strawberry Brulee, and one person got chocolate cake. All of the desserts were sprinkled with chopped mint. I can see the mint with the strawberries, but chocolate cake? yuck! And why chopped? A sprig is much more attractive and more easily picked off by those who don’t like it. When the server brought our desserts, she stated that she would be right back with our bill, but instead of doing that, we watched her begin two new parties. After we finished dessert, we sat yet another twenty minutes for our checks. I finally had to get up and speak to the owner. I told her we needed our checks and that we had been waiting a really long time. She never responded, so I went back to the table. She must have said something to the server, because about five minutes later the server returned with the check. She set it on the table and walked away. We paid and left a 17% percent tip, which is way less than I usually tip. On the way out, I stopped and told the owner that I would like to comment on the service. I began to tell her everything that went wrong, when the server approached and interrupted our conversation. She began to argue with my assessment of our dining experience! She actually asked me if I never made mistakes, and then she blamed her poor service on the fact that they were just busy. The owner never spoke to me, and instead just stood there while her server argued with me. It’s no small wonder that this restaurant is failing. There is a lesson here for restauranteurs, and that is that poor service can ruin a perfectly good meal. Although I think the food at Benham’s is dated and needs a fresh approach, it was pretty good. With the proper service, I probably would have thought it was fantastic. At this point however, all I really remember about our meal was the abyssmal service. If I had wanted to eat at a restaurant that doesn’t pre-bus, and where the server is embittered with bad attitude, I could have gone to Frisch’s and saved myself a lot of money. The owner never apologized for our bad experience, and barely made eye contact with me. We will certainly never darken their door again.
By LucyB
February 7, 2009 11:49 PM | Link to this
Sweeney’s Seafood was wonderful! We went on the very last night of an extended RW — no reservations were needed, even though it was a Saturday night. We got a drink at the bar and waited less than 10 minutes for our choice of a table or booth. We chose a booth with a view of the cool fish tanks in the casual nautical atmosphere. Crowd was friendly, respectful; service at both table and bar was pleasant, attentive — all-around outstanding. Food was hot, tasty, satisfying. Hubby had lobster ravioli w/shrimp app — very good, while I had a crispy Maryland crabcake with just the right amount of filler. Second course we chose smoked salmon Ceasar salad w/ the perfect amount of dressing and NE clam chowder that had a wonderful flavor. Main courses we chose were a big slab of pan-fried rainbow trout topped with tomatoes, artichokes and mushrooms (yummy), and the crab-stuffed flounder with dill sauce alongside seasoned rice. The RW menu left us stuffed, but not too full for a coffee drink. Excellent meal for an excellent price! We’ll recommend the place to friends, and we’ll definitely be back.
By Kay
February 6, 2009 10:12 PM | Link to this
Four of us went to Cena and we all had the same opinion…BAD. Meat on sampler plate was very dry and tasteless, “Feast” salads were not special; most contained beans with different seasonings and other ingredients. No bread, no dessert. Definitely not worth another visit.
By K.H.
February 6, 2009 6:41 PM | Link to this
My husband and I took our friends to Flemings. This was their first time time. The steak was good as usual but the rest of the meal wasn’t. The salad was yellow and the potatoes tasted like they came from a box. Our waiter took our salad forks and after they brought our salads I asked where our forks were. He said “they’re suppose to bring you chilled forks, maybe their not doing that tonight” No forks came. I guess during RW they cut corners but aren’t they suppose to be trying to stir up new business? We apologized to them for the disappointing experience. We’ll all stick with the Pine Club from here on. Flemings is over rated.
By Rammy M
February 5, 2009 10:22 PM | Link to this
Cena - quantity was good (salad bar), quality was boring, also poorly lit. Amelia’s - live guitar music. food had interesting presentation, and was very tasty. I ordered the “mushroom cappuccino” (soup) in addition, I recommend it. We will go back there to try some more things. Melting Pot - a little dark, portions a little small, but not too small. Obviously RW is not the same as “The Big Night Out”, but if you realize the broth becomes soup and you can drink it, you have no reason to leave hungry. Was worth it Savona’s - Noisy! (no s/p on the table. interesting) Very tasty food. Too bad they were out of what I had wanted to order though. Also want to come back here. Only one that had the sweepstakes form. tomorrow - maybe Pasha
By Wendy
February 4, 2009 12:00 PM | Link to this
RW! I love trying out the new restaurants and this time we tried Sweeney’s - Great! Grub Steak - awesome! and the big surprise was Kohinoor Palace. I had no idea Indian food could be so good. The Goa Shrimp I had was delicious. And at all 3 restaurants - outstanding service- I feel we were so lucky to have experienced such great food w/ such great service. Will definitely visit all 3 again .. Highly recommended!
By Sue Steck
February 4, 2009 11:46 AM | Link to this
Last evening 2/3/09 three of us had reservations at The Melting Pot for 6 pm. Arrival time of 5:50, then seated at 6. The dinner was good but the service was so slow. The waiter was attentive when he had time for our table. After eating and sitting for 2 hours the manager kindly provided the bill accepting payment and we left at 8:05 Dining at The Melting Pot is an adventure but allow yourself ample time to dine. Enjoy the food for a small appetite. RW provides a great value! Thank you
By David Fleming
February 4, 2009 10:25 AM | Link to this
When to Grub Steak for RW and I must say it was great from the service (server) and food. Had not been to Grub Steak in about 8 years, will add to monthly place to eat. Outstanding Job Grub Steak.
By rob
February 4, 2009 10:09 AM | Link to this
A few friends and I decided to check out Cena. We made a reservation, which was a good idea. However that was the best thing that happened all night. We sat down and our server took about 10 minutes to get to our table. And when she returned after the drink order, it was wrong. Then our food (5 meats) was COLD. No dessert menu included, no bread included. The worst part, the 20% gratuity that is included in a party of 6 or more! I never heard of this. I love tipping a high percentage, usually is always 20%, however with poorer service I drop it to 15 or 18%. I did not have a choice. I do not wish to go back however I am willing to give it another shot, not during restaraunt week.
By Nancy
February 4, 2009 8:59 AM | Link to this
We tried Sweeney’s first. The appetizers were good, but I was dissapointed in the fish main course. The food was all luke warm. We then tried Flemings and it was WONDERFUL. Service was fantastic. The portion size was plenty. Friends tried Barbie’s Bistro and had a horrible experience. They had reservation and still waited 50 mintues to get a seat and then 15 minutes before the wait staff brought water and menus. Then Barbie’s had ran out of the dessert. As far as Cena’s is concered, it was good when it first opened. It is terrible now. I will not go back.
By Amy
February 4, 2009 8:35 AM | Link to this
My sister and I with our children ate at Kohinoor Palace in Miamisburg. It was my first time tasting Indian cuisine and I was not at all disappointed. Everything was absolutely wonderful!! The atmosphere was so nice and the restaurant so tastefully decorated! Jesse the owner assisted me in ordering and helped us order for the kids (5yr, 8yr, 9yr). Everything was wonderful! The chicken was some of the juiciest I have ever had. My sister ordered a shrimp dishthat was fantastic as well. Jesse suggested we try a mini type donut for dessert, I cannot remember the name, but absolutely wonderful. We had to place a couple more orders for the kids! We will definitely go back and I would highly recommend everyone to go try!!
By Jon
February 4, 2009 8:28 AM | Link to this
RW! Always thought it was a hype, but my wife wanted to try Sweeney’s Seafood and WOW! it was great. We love it. The caesar was the best I’ve ever had, they smoke their own salmon. There were many options and the salmon for the main course was so good I will order it again and again. My wife loved the lobster ravioli and walleye. It was an outstanding evening. We’ll definately frequent Sweeney’s often.
By gjg
February 4, 2009 8:28 AM | Link to this
Not sure why Paula thinks Dayton area needs more Indian restaurants. There are at least 6! Anyone try the Pasha Grill? We went to the old Cafe Istambul about 3 times. The first time it was very good, but went downhill.
By Steven
February 4, 2009 8:20 AM | Link to this
Flemings after 3 visits I am so done going there! Oakwood Club is always Fantastic!
By Leonard
February 4, 2009 7:45 AM | Link to this
Decided to try something different. Decided upon the Dock in Enon. Ended up being a great choice. They had a 12oz ribeye for $14.95. The steak was cooked perfect, salad was great and the service was out of this world. I can’t wait to go in the summer to enjoy their deck.
By RH
February 4, 2009 6:43 AM | Link to this
My family and I tried Amelia’s in Bellbrook. We were very happy to find that they were participating in RW. There were 2 options for salads, 2 entrees and 2 desserts to choose from. The warm bacon dressing spinach salad was wonderful. I tried the Eggplant Pomodoro and my husband tried the Chicken Coq au Vin. Both entrees were spectacular and a good portion. Our son tried the filet which wasn’t on the RW menu and said it was one of the best he had ever had. It had blue cheese and was in a peppercorn red wine reduction. The desserts were a warm apple type of tart but the crust were sheets of crispy dough layered with ice cream. The other was homemade lemon or raspberry sorbet which is our son’s favorite dessert. It was a very enjoyable dinner and we ate in a nice atmosphere with the snow falling heavily outside.
By Bobby
February 4, 2009 3:30 AM | Link to this
My girlfriend and I went to CENA for RW and wow it was probably the worst meal I’ve ever had! I’m not just exagerating either. The meats were like eating apiece of wood. They were so dry, very salty, and tasted like leather. I was most looking forward to the Feast Table buffet, but it was also a farce. They advertise things like “sushi” on the table so I was looking forward to it. However, there was no sushi and the waiter said they ran out. Ran out! It was 6 PM on a Sunday, what a rip off. And I hear the sushi really is just tuna, no variety. I will NEVER go back to this sorry excuse for a restaurant. I’m not sure why there’re still in business. TERRIBLE
By Sampson
February 4, 2009 3:10 AM | Link to this
I was out of town for restaurant week and my post isn’t about a local restaurant, but I must share it, the food was that great. We were on a road trip that took us thru the American Southwest, like Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, etc. Best food of the trip was in Castle Rock, Colorado at Castle Cafe, pan fried chicken with all the fixings, and the home made chicken noodle soup was to die for. We stoped in Castle Rock so that I could get an oil change on our Expedition at a Ford dealership, and asked where we should eat. We did go to a 4 star in Denver but it wasnt nearly as good as the pan fried chicken was. Locally in Dayton, doesnt look like much has changed, Flemings still rules and so does Grub Steak.
By PaulA
February 3, 2009 11:32 PM | Link to this
We need more Indian restaurants in town!!
By sauve and know it
February 3, 2009 11:08 PM | Link to this
Tried all restaurants in dayton and the environs. Frisches wups all of them on balance. Jay’s,,please. Anticolli’s, sure. Has not been a decent restaurant in town since Cliff Suttmiller threw his hands up.
By SeenABad
February 3, 2009 10:59 PM | Link to this
Yeah, that Cena is just bad. Bad food, overpriced and mediocre service. Not worth the time, the price or the hassle… Grab a BigMac for $3 and put a spear through it, and no tip.
By HuberTucky
February 3, 2009 10:35 PM | Link to this
All these mouth-watering reviews. Really makes me miss Parkmoor’s Chicken-in-the-Basket!
By KWL
February 3, 2009 10:19 PM | Link to this
Servers of establishments participating in restaurant week should not be surprised that customers may actually order from the RW selection. In most cases, your tip will be based on the RW tab, but hey, you serve with a cheerful attitude and who knows…? You might even get a repeat customer during non-RW times. El Meson and Flemings were the exception this go-around and actually provided stellar service. As usual for them, the food was of consistently high quality.
By The Hon
February 3, 2009 10:17 PM | Link to this
Went to three restaurants so far. Hit McCormick & Schmick last Tuesday, Chop House on Friday, and Grub Steak on Wednesday of week two. Portions were good sized, food quality was great, and every server performed top notch. Will probably do one more. Great way to sample your way through area restaurants.
By Carrie
February 3, 2009 5:42 PM | Link to this
My husband and I went to Buckhorn Tavern. We made reservations but still had to wait about 30 minutes! When we got our seats it was crowded and the server did not pay that much attention to us. The food was good, but I will not go back.
By null
February 3, 2009 5:20 PM | Link to this
6 friends and I went to Bullwinkle’s last Friday and we had a great time, our server was Mike and he was wonderful and patient. As a bonus to Restaurant week, it also happened to be Margarita Friday, $1.99 Margaritas and the time we went were half price appetizers! So lots of wonderful food, drinks and fun. We all got the rib special, it came with choice of salad, 3/4 slab of ribs, potato, and a brownie sundae. We all left with half our meals we were so full!! Their ribs are just so delish and I brought home the sundae for my husband and half the ribs! I definitely would go back. They have great daily specials so its a great place to go even when its not restaurant week!
By Stephen
February 3, 2009 4:55 PM | Link to this
We went to J. Alexanders. My wife and her friend both had the samon and liked it very much. Salads were large and very good. I went off the special menu and got a pork loin that was literally a WHOLE pork loin. It was excellent. I got a lunch out of it the next day as well. Don’t mind paying a little more if I know I can get two meals out of it.
By Yum!
February 3, 2009 4:53 PM | Link to this
I tried to get a reservation to Flemings on friday (because their food is delicious) but they were booked solid until 11pm. So, we went to Franco’s which was very good when I went there in the summer of 2008. The food was good but nothing to brag about! All and all I think resturant week is great and look forward to going to another resturant this week!
By lynn
February 3, 2009 4:49 PM | Link to this
I’ve tried Jay’s, El Meson & Cafe Boulevard for RW and they were all great experiences! I always look forward to Restaurant Week and try to support the independents!
By Barb
February 3, 2009 4:48 PM | Link to this
We tried to go to the Melting Pot last night. We were really looking forward to it but the hostesses both made us feel very unwelcome because we had no reservations. We said we would wait that was no problem and then they lengthened the time we would have to wait. We all felt they were over quoting the wait time because they did not want us to stay for some reason. We then chose to go to J Alexanders. We had a great meal and wonderful service. We all left full and everyone took at least half of our meal home because the portion was so large. Their plan worked we went because of Restaurant week but we will go back again because we were treated so well. The Melting Pot, I am not sure any of us will ever go there after this experience. After an email to the manager he did send us a coupon for a free desert but that did not help with the unwelcome feeling from the hostesses.
By Arch
February 3, 2009 3:27 PM | Link to this
My family and I had dinner at Carvers for restaurant week. The food was excellent, and the service was great. We all enjoyed our evening.
By NickM
February 3, 2009 3:03 PM | Link to this
Grub Steak is the best place in Dayton. Love the new location by the Dayton Mall. Ill miss the North Main resturant because of all the great times and memories at that location but im glad they moved it. It was not in a great part of town. My family and I have known the great people at Grub Steak for years and they have always taken great care of us! The steaks are first class! Fred and the gang do such a great job. Best resturant in Dayton by far!
By Peggy
February 3, 2009 2:56 PM | Link to this
Went to the Wellington Grill, even though it is usually very price, Restaurant Week was sure to make it worth while. The hummus was good, but not great. The veal cutlet with pasta wasn’t worth writing home over, but the butterscotch pudding was wonderful. The service was wonderful, my husband’s prime rib was amazing, worth the trip over, not covered on the Restaurant Week menue, but a huge piece of meat for the price and nothing ever tasted so good. The bread basket doesnt come around often enough and not a place to get a glass of wine, but my waiter was great. Nice experience overall.
By Karla
February 3, 2009 2:44 PM | Link to this
I tried the Melting Pot for the first time with 3 friends the first night of RW. Take Jeremy’s advice and pay the extra $3 for a non-RW cheese course; the cheddar fondue they serve is made with Strose beer and was not terribly good. The cheese and main course portions are “small” (not overly huge), but by dessert it was definitely a deal and we all left full. My favorites were the Gorgonzola sauce on the sirloin and the rice krispy treats (go figure!) dipped in chocolate for dessert. The cheesecake with the dessert plate was good but too soft to actually dip. Overall, a very good experience.
By Bill
February 3, 2009 1:56 PM | Link to this
My wife and I went to Amber Rose. I have never had a bad meal there, and this was no exception. It was a little pricey for what was served, but, for quality, there was non better. Ezzy didn’t stop by, but, that didn’t matter, the food was still great. For Dayton favorites, it’s Jays, Pine Club, and then Amber Rose…
By null
February 3, 2009 1:51 PM | Link to this
im with s. miller. Cena is horrible. id been there one time before and a group of friends went for RW. Total waste of money and my time. Avoid Cena!!!!!!
By gjg
February 3, 2009 1:48 PM | Link to this
Four of us tried McCormick and Schmick for the first time. Fabulous! We tried the greens, the wedge, and the brushetta. Wonderful! We had the tilapia and the chicken amd they were great1 We all had the terrific creme brule for dessert. Our only criticism is that the green beans on the side were fashionably undercooked. We prefer less body and more tenderness. But we all intend to go back. We are hoping to get together again this week for a different restaurant.
By Sue
February 3, 2009 1:39 PM | Link to this
Some friends and I went to Cena’s last Wednesday, and we were all disappointed. The bread that was listed on the menu wasn’t served, and the meats were all dry. There were some interesting dishes on the feast table, but all in all it wasn’t a very good first impression and I doubt I’ll go back.
By Jill
February 3, 2009 1:36 PM | Link to this
We choose to go to TJ Chumps because of the menu. The food was absolutely wonderful. I had the Cajun Honey Mustard Chicken & he had the steak. Top of with our choice of appetizer & dessert, we left full & with left overs.
By chiefwino
February 3, 2009 8:02 AM | Link to this
Ventured out in the snow flurries last night to Caffe Anticoli. Very nice food, particularly calamari appetizer. Precisely cooked light delicate batter. Plenty of garlic to keep the vampires away and us warm on a chilly night. Pork scallopini nicely done not too heavy with batter or sauce. Candy our waitress was superb and very personable. Worth a revisit the next time we are hungry for traditional Italian cooking. Looks like they have a couple of nice party rooms for future reference.
By Hunter Johnson
February 2, 2009 1:21 PM | Link to this
We went to Rue Dumaine on Tuesday. Brought our boys along (ages 12 and 9) too. Three of us had the RW fare; one of the boys opted for frog legs, pommes frites, and dessert. Seemed like an economical way to take them for a test run to a restaurant that doesn’t have a separate kids menu, and we weren’t disappointed.
By larry
February 2, 2009 10:12 AM | Link to this
We went to Jay’s thursday night. our host amy greeted us with a full explaination of menus options which are many. the rw specials, a prix faire dinner and lobstermania. unbelieveable. i personally ordered the rw special. the appetizer was fillo dough wrapped mushroom ragout with smoked salmon. excellent with white wine. i then had sole in parchment paper with rice and vegetables in a light curry sauce. moist and tasty. the chocolate mousse was light and tasty. jay’s was enjobyable with great service and hospitality.
By Jeremy
February 1, 2009 10:54 AM | Link to this
Went to Melting Pot with a lot of friends and had a great time. The entree is a smaller portion of what you would normally get, but considering a normal entree is $20+ that would make sense. You can request to get more dippers for the cheese pot if you run out. One thing they don’t tell you is that you can get a menu listed cheese pot or chocolate pot for $3 more (per pot). Which we did and was completely worth it. I am so used to going and having the bill be $200+ pre-tip for 5 people, the fact that it was under $175 for 7, with drinks, made it very nice.
By JeanB
February 1, 2009 8:40 AM | Link to this
Went to Rue Dumaine for RW (our first time) and it was exceptional. Lovely decor (so fun to be able to look into the kitchen), awesome food, and the best service I have ever encountered (thank you, Tony and everyone). The welcoming sip of champagne was especially nice, as was their special vin d’orange apertif. RW menu items were outstanding, as were the scallops appetizer and Friday special duckling. WIll definitely go again!
By null
January 31, 2009 10:38 AM | Link to this
We have tried for RW so far Flemings, The Racquet Club and The Melting Pot. Fleming’s as always, was outstanding with everything cooked perfectly and the service impeccable. The Melting Pot was also amazing and we’ll definitely go back. The Racquet Club, however, was rather disappointing. The service was attentive without being obtrusive, and the exploded chicken spring roll was outstanding, but the dried ancho crust and the reduced cider sauce on the steak combined for an odd, bitter and unpleasant steak. The steaks also kind of fatty and streaks of silverskin through them which made them hard to chew, and the caesar salads were mediocre at best. No dessert was included, and at $8 for the dessert buffet, it wasn’t worth it for the 3 small chocolate covered strawberries and frozen cream puffs on it. Also, they don’t tell you in advance but they add a 20% gratuity to the bill automatically which can cause sticker shock if you aren’t paying attention. This week we’ll try a couple more places we’ve never been. But we’ll certainly return to The Melting Pot and Fleming’s at some point!
By Wanda
January 30, 2009 10:28 PM | Link to this
Just returned from Coco’s Bistro and had a unique and delicious meal. All four dining companions chose a different entree from the Restaurant Week choices and they were all very good. The most unique item was the crisp spinach which was served with the Chicken Marsala. Who knew deep fried spinach could taste so good?
By Gerri
January 30, 2009 7:56 PM | Link to this
Wednesday was my husband’s birthday. He said he wanted ribs for dinner. We went to J.Alexander’s and to our surprise the ribs were on the RW menu. The salad was good. They have changed the salad. It’s good, but not great - like it use to be. The ribs were delicious. The next time we’re looking for good ribs, it will be at J Alexander’s. The cole slaw was the best ever. The large onion rings were very crispy and just right. We had the very moist and tasty carrot cake for dessert. There was so much food that we got to enjoy it Thursday night again!
By Kelli
January 30, 2009 2:40 PM | Link to this
Went out Thursday night with husband to Fleming’s. It was wonderful. The service was excellent. We never had to wait for anything, yet we were not rushed. We both had the filet mignon and they were cooked perfectly. I would highly reccomend going to Fleming’s as it is such a good value during restaurant week.
By Jean
January 30, 2009 1:27 PM | Link to this
Thursday: My husband and I wanted to try someplace new to us so we went to Benham’s. The best word to describe the evening is outstanding! Benham’s atmosphere is warm and intimate and the service is wonderful. I started with the perfectly seasoned white chicken chili and my husband had the warm apple and bacon salad. The strip steak with whiskey peppercorn sauce and the grilled salmon with sea scallops were both served with mashed potoatoes with horseradish and rutabaga and sauteed winter vegetables. Their chocolate cake was the best I have had in years. It was frosted with caramel icing and served with Graeter’s icecream. My husband had the strawberry brulee and after the first bite he didn’t want to share! Since RW has been extended, we plan to go again next week. Very satisfied.
By null
January 30, 2009 9:15 AM | Link to this
My friends and I decided to try out the Melting Pot for restaurant week. PLEASE DONT WASTE YOUR $20.09 ON IT! Go somewhere where you will get $20.09 worth of food. We are all small people and we all left hungry! They gave us one small bowl of veggies to cook and split between us. There was literally one small red potatoe cut in quarters for 3 people! I have gone out for restaurant week for several years now and this had to be the worst experience. We were going to go to McCormick and Schmicks but they had the same menu as the last restaurant week. If you have never been there, go! The tilapia is wonderful and so is the bread pudding. You won’t leave hungry!
By Mrs.Winegeeks
January 29, 2009 10:49 AM | Link to this
Tuesday night: Rue Dumaine. Another exceptional experience. We started at the bar for the weekly wine tasting, which was especially wonderful, and as always each taste was paired with a fabulous little amuse bouche, each of which enhanced the wine flavors. For dinner, the chicken fricassee was delectable; beautifully prepared and presented. The dessert, a citrus crepe, was different and good. The service was perfect – we were never rushed nor ignored. Anne, Tom, and staff are all so dedicated to excellence, and it shows.
By Mrs.Winegeeks
January 29, 2009 10:43 AM | Link to this
Monday night: Jay’s. Excellent food, impeccable service, as is the norm at Jay’s. The wild mushroom strudel with smoked salmon and boursin cheese was melt-in-the-mouth decadent, nothing short of sensual. The short ribs were phenomenally delicious. The sole was also very good, served with an abundance of saffron rice. The mousse is always awesome. Since it was Monday, we enjoyed delicious wines by the bottle at 25% off the listed price, making it an even better bargain. An excellent experience.
By Nancy
January 28, 2009 2:27 PM | Link to this
We were limited to Sunday night due to our schedule this week so we chose Barbie’s Bistro. We weren’t sure what to expect since it was a small non-descript location, but we are glad we made this choice. We were the only customers for most of our meal so the service was impeccable. Our meals were great. The onion ring appetizer was very tasty although the shrimp was watery. The two Italian salad dressings were flavorful, but not overdone like most Italian and is worth a return trip for the dressing. Our lasagna and beef tips were generous portions, cooked perfectly and very flavorful. The garlic rolls straight out of the oven were tasty. Rounding out with cheesecake gave us the feeling that we had received a delicious meal for a good value. We will try their regular menu some other time during the year. It’s always nice to find local restaurants!
By Jennifer
January 27, 2009 10:33 PM | Link to this
Went with three friends to the Melting Pot tonight. My first experience there. It was very enjoyable and based on the prices we saw on the regular menu, a good deal. Our server was friendly and attentive, the atmosphere was warm and inviting on a nasty winter night, and the fondue was rich and flavorful. There are no real choices, you start with a cheddar cheese fondue, followed by sirloin and chicken with five dipping sauces (all excellent), and for dessert, you choose dark, milk or white chocolate (we chose dark) to dip a variety of sweets in. My favorites were the sirloin dipped in the blue cheese sauce, and the cheese cake dipped in the dark chocolate. I left very full, but some with larger appetites might not find the portions to be enough.
By Tony
January 27, 2009 8:24 PM | Link to this
Meadowlark. We choose it because we love Pork Belly and it is practically impossible to find in this area, neither in a restaurant nor in butcher departments of any stores. Meadowlark got theirs from Dorothy Lane Market ( on special request!) It was the leanest I have ever had. It was wonderful. They braise it in soy and spices, cool it down, then slice it and put it under the grill to crisp it all around. It is served with rice and stir fried vegetables.If you have had pork belly before, you will love it. If you have never had it, this is the place to experiment. The appetiser was steamed mussels in a Thai coconut broth. A little small, but excellent. A small bread toast would have been a nice addition. A little “heat” was mellowed by the coconut broth. They give you a spoon so you can “slurp” the flavorful broth. I am not a great dessert aficionado, but the lemon chess pie was excellent and tart. If you have been put off by the bad weather to go to this restaurant, they already have decided that they will have the same menu with the same “Restaurant Week” prices next week as well. So no excuses to try Pork Belly!!
By Malissa
January 27, 2009 4:59 PM | Link to this
Went to El Meson Monday night, and it was great! My husband had the asopao first course and the sopon a la marinera entree. He said they were both great. I had the salad and pollo de los Andes. It was wonderful! The flavers blended together so wonderfully. The desert was house-made columbian caramel with blackberries and whipped cream, it was so rich, very delicious. We recieved great service from Evelyn, and the wait staff all seemed to help each other out at all their tables. I really enjoyed the atmosphere and camaraderie between guests and employees. We have reservations at C’est Tout for Wednesday night, but are not sure whether we’ll make it or not with the weather. Friday night will be the Chop house.
By troy
January 27, 2009 4:40 PM | Link to this
We tried to get reservations for Flemings on Friday. They didn’t have anything till 9:20! We called McCormicks. Wanted to go to Amber Rose tonight, but think we’ll stay in. Too bad this weather may keep diners away.
By Mandie
January 27, 2009 9:43 AM | Link to this
Some friends and I went to Barbies Bistro last night in Kettering and it was amazing! I had not heard of the place until I saw it on the RW list. The offerings were all good and the food was so good. I would highly recommended this place!!
By carrie
January 27, 2009 9:12 AM | Link to this
My husband & I went to Carvers last night & we may actually go back before the week is up. I had the prime rib & it was so tender I could cut it with a fork. My husband had the NY strip & loved it. I would have expected them to cut back on things this week but the portions were amazing. The best bang for your buck this week if you ask me. Our server was pretty busy but still attentive & friendly to us. What a way to start the week off!!
By boB
January 27, 2009 6:58 AM | Link to this
My wife and I attended Sweeney’s Seafood on Sunday for RW. As always they never disappoint, plus they made an effort to offer a good RW week menu, unlike several other places. We split the Raviolli and Crab Cake apps, both were good. Smoked Salmon salad was also fresh. Wife got the Crab Stuffed Flounder and she really enjoyed it, I got the Pistachio Salmon and I’d order it again. We had plenty to eat and my wife even had leftovers. Added plus, Sweeney’s supports craft beer so they have excellent craft beer on tap.
By LucyB
January 27, 2009 4:50 AM | Link to this
Hubby and I always choose somewhere we’ve never been for Restaurant Week, and we dithered about whether to try Cena — which has gotten very mixed reviews in the past, but the concept seems interesting — and Sweeney’s Seafood in Centerville — just because the RW menu looked tasty. (Because of work schedules, we only had Sunday night, so that substantially limited our choices.) At the last minute we decided on Wellington Grille because we had heard it was romantic and delicious. We should have gone elsewhere, because I was definitely not impressed. The decor was lovely, but they seated the two of us in the middle of the room near a large group, with our backs to the fireplace (there were plenty of empty tables and booths). Glassware and flatware on the table looked dirty. And it took 25 minutes for the server to bring us a piece of bread and our bottle of wine! (The ridiculously large bread basket never appeared again. Not that I would have wanted more, but it would have been nice to offer.) First course: Red pepper hummus with pita strips were delish, the best thing about the meal, but the shredded cheese and dressing on my spinach salad was a gloppy mess. Second course: The tilapia’s Parmesan crust was very tasty, but the warmish bed of veggies underneath (the server called it a ratatouille, but I have my doubts) was unremarkable. The veal Parmesan and pasta was plentiful but just so-so. The desserts — a butterscotch pudding served in a wine glass and an almost-warm fruit crisp a la mode — were tasty, but were delivered while we were still eating our entrees! Yes, we were being given the bum’s rush by a less-than-steller server who corrected our pronunciation of a winery, then couldn’t describe the wine for us. He also broke the cork and cut himself with the captain’s knife while he was serving it. The poor service tainted the whole meal, and we will definitely not go back to Wellington Grille.
By pattyv
January 26, 2009 12:58 PM | Link to this
I had only meant to stop at Jay’s for a glass of wine but the restaurant week braised short rib dinner went by and so… The entire meal was wonderful. Caesar salad (xtra anchovies), red wine braised short ribs with mashed potatoes and vegetables, and chocolate mousse.
By Joanie
January 26, 2009 11:54 AM | Link to this
We decided to try someplace new at the previous Restaurant Week, so we went to the Fairlawn Steakhouse in Greenville. the drive was beautiful. That’s the only positive comment I can make. The food was so-so and we were seated in a booth that had a rip in the upholstery. A spring came through and poked me and put a hole in my pants! We won’t be going back there!
By Mandie
January 26, 2009 10:06 AM | Link to this
Everytime I have gone to Cena the food was just ok but the service has been horrible. I have given them three chances and I will never go back.
By S. Miller
January 26, 2009 9:31 AM | Link to this
First experience ever at Restaurant Week and Cena. It was a very poor experience. The salad buffet was OK, but the main course was horrible. It looked and tasted like they were serving leftovers! Bread was not available and dessert was not included: so much for putting your best foot forward. Would never go back - a total rip-off!
By Dave
January 26, 2009 9:14 AM | Link to this
My wife and I went to Chop House (near Carver’s at 675 and 725) and had wonderful meals. My wife had the prime rib (excellent) and I had the Chicken Florentine which was also excellent. The salads were very good as well - all fresh ingredients, good size and plenty of dressing. Dessert was a chocolate brownie with vanilla ice cream and caramel topping - very good. All in all, for $20.09 each, a great value and highly recommended. Their other entree choice is a 6 oz. filet.
By Mary
January 25, 2009 9:45 PM | Link to this
Anticoli’s was excellent! The calamari appetizer was very good. Main course was great too - recommend the Misto Italino.
By Scott Elliott
January 25, 2009 9:38 PM | Link to this
We went to Grub Steak by the Dayton Mall. What a deal. There were seven of us and we each got one of the seven appetizers from the main menu and shared them. I couldn’t believe they let us each choose a full appetizer. They normally are $7-$8 each. For the main course, there were three options. I had a small bacon wrapped fillet that came with a delicious piece of cod. It also came with two sides. I choose a salad (wasn’t very good) and a baked sweet potato (was very good). For desert, I had a cheesecake topped with strawberry that was great. My wife had the hotel steak, which also came with cod. She had a salad, baked potato and carmel apple pie that was excellent, although she was disappointed they ran out of the chocolate cake. All that food and the bill was $42! Pretty amazing.