Last Saturday night we got a last minute babysitter and decided to grab dinner. We didn’t have time to make reservations at one of our few favorites that take them (Buttermilk Channel and newcomer Breuckelen) so decided to try Strong Place. It was 8:15 pm and packed. We’re told an hour wait so we put our name down and walk down Court St. to see what else we can score. We know it’s a long shot, but we head into Frankies 457. Miracle of miracle’s, two people get up from the bar and I think WOO HOO! But alas, the maitre d’ comes over and tells me there’s actually people waiting for the bar seats! Ugh. And a table is, ready? Two and a half hours. Nope. So we pop into Prime Meats, which tells us two hours (it’s now close to 9pm by the way). We entertained Fragole, but there’s a mass of folks standing outside and we’re not even giving it a shot. Walking up and down Court St., we passed more than a few people on cellphones calling and asking about wait times at many of the same spots. Luckily, by the time we get back to Strong Place, our table is ready and to be honest, we had an awesome meal. If you haven’t tried the lobster tacos (as shown above: offered as an entree but we ordered as an appetizer) or the short rib burger with rosemary fries, it’s way past time.
So, yes, we had a lovely dinner and some outstanding wine for less than $40 a bottle. And it was a warm night so we weren’t too bothered about the walk. However, it made us wonder why so many places don’t let you call ahead to reserve a table. Is it for buzz? Is it to get people to hang at the bar? Do we have to start jumping in a cab to get a table before 10pm (and after 6pm)? Last weekend, we went with friends to the brand new Colonie at Atlantic Ave. and waited over an hour and a half to sit down. By the time we got to the table, I was fairly bombed and one of the four entrees was gone. The staff was lovely and apologetic, but it wasn’t an experience I’d care to replicate anytime soon. Anyone else have this type of experience in the neighborhood? Any suggestions on local date restaurants which take reservations (or have less than an hour wait)? Next up: Smith St.