Big B.
Yelp
The difference between vision and successful presentation can often rely on the ability to execute. Many chefs can-not be operators, and many operators cannot be chefs. At The Block, even the simplest menu items appeared out of the kitchen's reach during a recent Summer visit.
Based upon ambiance alone, we chose the sidewalk dining option at this popular stretch of Lockwood Avenue. Our first mistake. The Block Burger @ $15, add bacon @ $2, Kid's Mac & Cheese @ $4 and a house lemonade were logical choices. Server Bre'Anna seemed taxed to provide a smile, but suggested the "Flash Fried Brussels Sprouts" @ $11 as an important order addition. A protracted wait allowed us to notice a growing problem. One which some staff seemed pre-conditioned to tackle, but, alas, they could not.
A stark difference from nearby hotspots, this purveyor was not only overrun with flies, but it was clear this was not the first time. Even before we alerted nearby workers, other staff were already spraying adjacent areas of the sidewalk. This was an ominous sign. They. Were. Everywhere. In and of itself, a serious fly problem near a restaurant building usually connotes inner trouble.
In a case like this, oftentimes the menu stars can salvage an otherwise uncomfortable experience. While the Kid's Mac & Cheese was entirely delectable, the vastly overrated, and overpriced burgers were...sorely disappointing. Over-seasoned, dry and chewy, the meat patties were awful. It was puzzling. The Block bills itself as a purveyor of showcase meat products. Barely edible Sprouts rounded out a very unimpressive, albeit disastrous trip to the eatery. Subsequent attempts to call the business phone contact missing from our receipt were unanswered.
