Ashley
Google
The Black Pearl describes itself as "a haven of fine dining" on its website. At $135 per person plus mandatory 20% gratuity, I expected the experience to match that claim. Unfortunately, it fell short in several ways.
From the start, there was confusion. The server explained this was an eight-course tasting menu, but only seven courses were listed. After some back-and-forth, he realized the eighth was an unlisted chocolate dessert. A small issue, but not a great first impression.
The server strongly recommended the filet mignon as a signature dish, so I ordered it medium. When it arrived, it was clearly overcooked, dry, gray throughout, with only a thin pink center. This was medium-well at best. When I politely questioned it, the server seemed surprised and simply replied, "It is medium. That is what you ordered."
The manager later acknowledged it was "overburnt on the outside," but avoided addressing the internal overcooking. He offered to remake it, but I declined. At this price point, correctly cooking a filet should be fundamental, not a second attempt.
Service pacing was also inconsistent. A table seated after us finished dessert while we were still waiting for our entrée. To cap it off, the server also forgot to return my hat from coat check until I reminded him, a small detail, but consistent with the overall inattentiveness.
As compensation, I received a $25 gift card, not particularly useful as a traveler who won't return.
Overall, between the menu confusion, pacing issues, overcooked entrée, and dismissive response to feedback, this did not meet fine dining standards.