Chloe H.
Yelp
I called Prim & Proper to inquire if they could print personalized menus, and was told they could not not. I was hoping to have commemorative menus for my birthday dinner.
Upon arrival, I used the valet parking ($15). You're met with a beautiful piano in the grand foyer. As you approach the reception desk, there's a bar to the left, and the main dining area to the right.
The bar was busy, but the main dining area wasn't crowded. Upon request, we were allowed to dine in the private dining room that seats twelve people, even though we were a party of two. They were very accommodating.
AESTHETICS: 5/5
Aesthetically, it is a beautiful space decorated with French bistro tiles. The servers were clad in striking yellow/mustard hued jackets. The artwork on the walls were interesting; lots of floating heads. The tables in the main dining room were situated very close together.
Note: On the website, there is a dress code specified. However, I noticed two tables with athletic wear (i.e., hoodies and sneakers).
SERVICE: 4.5/5
It took a while to put our order in. Upon inquiry, we learned there were only two servers working. We had Forest as our server. He was animated and cheerful. He was also thoughtful in ways that provided an elevated experience. When my friend stepped away to use the restroom, he nicely folded her napkin. He also brought two complimentary glasses of champagne for my birthday toast. He's a gem.
THE FOOD: 4.5/5
We ordered a lot of food! First thing, they do not serve ANY bread (Hint! Hint!). That was a shocker. For appetizers we ordered two of the crab croquettes and the deviled eggs. The crab croquettes were so delicious, we ordered a second one. The deviled eggs were okay. I wouldn't reorder them, but they're worth trying.
For the entrees, we had the lamb, and braised oxtails served with a side of sweet potato puree. It was quite tasty. It didn't have the gamey taste lamb often carries.
The oxtails were huge! Three large, fall of the bones, perfectly seasoned oxtails. The accompanied bean paste was a bit salty and there was too much sauce/gravy since there was no starch with the entree. Perhaps consider offering a side of coconut basmati rice to sop up the sauce (Hint! Hint!)
We shared the bread pudding for dessert. The portions were sizable. Everything seems to be a la carte.
THE DRINKS: 3/5
I initially ordered the French Martini and didn't like it. It tasted medicinal. My friend didn't like her drink either and sent hers back. We both subsequently ordered the Lemon Drop and it was perfectly crafted. The specialty cocktails on the menu need tweaking to find the right balance of palette pleasing flavors.
VERDICT: The food was excellent, the drinks needed improvement, and the service was great once we got started. I would return, but with tempered expectations as they workout operational challenges. I believe in due time, they will hit their stride.