Frances B.
Yelp
First time going to Bob Chinn's. I was prepared for it to look like a cafeteria , given past reviews. I was pleasantly surprised by the wooded exterior. Inside, although we had reservations, we stood in a short line for the 2bd host stand. At the front of the line, she handed us menus and sent us to a 3rd host deeper into the restaurant. He was extremely welcoming. However, we waited almost ten minutes at our table without any server greeting us, and no waters. Plus, although we did get the menus from the host, we didn't get a drink menu.
After waiting almost ten minutes, my husband spotted an open booth in a nicer area, against the windows and asked the host if we could move, explaining we still hadn't been served. He was profusely apologetic, and moved us to the large booth in a pretty section with a lovely view of trees outside and immediately our excellent server came up (Daniel, I think?). From then on, the dinner was perfection.
The rolls came quickly. They were warm and covered in a lovely garlic olive oil. I could see others loving this but we'd prefer to skip them next time. A bit hard and just extra carbs when we'd rather save room for the meal.
We ordered two appetizers. The mushrooms arrived almost immediately and were excellent. With only two people, though, it was a bit too much for us - better for a group. We also got the scallops. Omg. I like scallops but I did not know they could be that succulent. Flavorful, tender, with just a hint of crisp at the edges. Lovely sauce without being greasy.
I got the Basa stuffed with crab. Other reviewers complained that they're fished from rivers with chemicals but many websites claim that cooking the fish fully solves the problem. Who knows. At any rate, it was delicious. Flavorful and flaky. The crab is not just perched on top but stuffed. I asked the hollandaise sauce on the side. The meals come with choice of two sides. I chose the rice and slaw. Both were good. Slaw is very thinly grated and a refreshing sauce.
My husband got the swordfish blackened. I normally don't like steak-like fish but this swordfish was so tender and juicy that I'd consider getting it next time.
We both had a cocktail and I'd suggest skipping them and getting wine or beer instead. The blackberry bramble was excessively sweet and not balanced. Just tasted like fruit juice. The Manhattan was smooth but was the weakest Manhattan I've had. Normally those are quite strong for me and I didn't feel a buzz. So if you just want the flavor and like sweet drinks, get it. Otherwise, skip. I didn't knock a star down for this because to each their own - some people love sugary drinks so I didn't feel it was a fault, just not what we like.
But the luau cake is not to be missed! Light and airy, it was a perfect way to close a delicious meal. Only lightly sweetened without being cloying. And a delectable effervescence of coconut. Light enough (and low enough priced at only $7) that I could almost order one just for me next time !