My mother rarely visits the city so I wanted to give her and my sister a night out on the town… well, just dinner.  I used my fancy Savored account so I could book reservations and get my 30% off (budget ballin’) the entire bill and we were on our way.

The ambiance was nice with a long bar, lounge, and wine cellar that was all dimly lit.  Showing up a bit early, we treated ourselves to a few happy hour drinks in the lounge which was spacious and comfortable.  The popcorn (bacon flavored!) and bread were complimentary as we waited for a couple appetizers that ended up being the highlight of the evening.  For apps, we ordered deviled eggs (sprinkled with bacon!) and pork belly sliders (zomg – so good).  I can’t begin to tell you how much I love pork belly and if it’s on the menu, it’s in my stomach so definitely try it if you get the chance.

At the dinner table:

Sweetbreads – average
Bread basket – above average
Shrimp and grits (they’re specialty) – average
Crab Cakes – below average
Pork loin – below average

Perhaps the chef had an off night (which is why I’ll have to come at least once more), but I wasn’t dazzled.  Shrimp and grits were good, but there was nothing spectacular as far as the main dishes were concerned.  The crab cakes were of quality crab meat, but lacked in flavor and the pork loin was dry.  We asked if that’s how they typically served it and the waiter said yes.  How discouraging!  I will say the bread basket was phenomenal.  Cornbread, onion-laced focaccia and a typical dinner roll with jam and butter was quickly consumed.

I’ll be the first to admit that I’m no professional food critic, but I can certainly say that I wasn’t thrilled with the main dishes we ate.  With southern food as a staple, I was curious why fried chicken wasn’t a part of the menu.  For the time being, I’ll hang in the lounge and eat the appetizers.