Restaurant Week in the ‘Burbs
We ventured into the ‘burbs closer to our home in McKinney for Restaurant Week. We’d heard good things about Bailey’s Prime Plus: the steaks, particularly the onion rings, and thought we’d give it a try. We’d also heard some buzz about the pros and cons of Restaurant Week and thought we’d wade in and try it out!
First, Restaurant Week. The intent is that it’s a win-win. Restaurants give value pricing to customers, donate to charity, and customers get to try new places at a time of year when a tumblin’ tumbleweed is about the most exciting thing to view in empty restaurant parking lots. SO! How to enjoy?
First off all, you need to keep in mind what the fixed price represents: $35 per person, not including drinks, taxes, and tips. To have a perfect night, keep your expectations in line with the possibilities of the night. What do you want to do on this night? Save money/stay on budget, or try a new spot for a night on the town at a reasonable price? The two things are both do-able, but different. If the former, then plan in advance to avoid drinks with dinner, or limit yourself to one glass. Be strong! But even with these guidelines, your bill will not be $70 for a party of two. With tax and 15% tip, no alcohol, you are looking at a $90.93 tab. If the latter, then enjoy; look at the other (more expensive) items on the menu and dream a little for next time, take it slow and savor every flavor, and don’t count the cost when your total arrives at more like $150.
Next, focus on the food: Gary and I each tried different versions of the Prix Fixe Restaurant Wek menu, eating together but on parallel planes.
His:
First Course
Lobster Bisque with Pinot Grigio
Second Course
Broiled Filet Mignon Medallions with Shiraz
Third Course
Texas Summer Peach Crisp with Madiera
Hers:
First Course
“That” Salad with Riesling
Second Course
Cilantro Lime Marinated Atlantic Salmon with Chardonnay
Third Course
Bailey’s Brownie Sundae with Fonseca Ruby
The takeaway? The food was exceptional, not dumbed down for those of us who live outside I-635. We ordered a crab cake to start (as if more sustenance were needed) and a glass of sparkly Cava (as if more drink were needed) and thorougly enjoyed both. The flavors of the steak and salmon were big and bold. We had an interesting conversation with knowledgeable waitress who at least knew that the glass used for the Riesling was not correct. The prices were as big and bold as the flavors (menu here), so while the menu was perfectly suited for business-mealplan execs, the interior was relatively well lit and airy, so that one didn’t feel as if snacking in some grotto/mancave surrounded by cigar smoke.
Catty comment: So WHO designed the interior? While indeed airy and nicely lit, the postmodern design, disturbing juxtaposition of linear art deco elements and faux gold Ionic columns. black and white coloration, made me feel like I was somewhere between the Roaring ’20′s and Nero’s Golden Casino. Whew! So that aside, once I settled down and focused on the menu, the elements of the table, and the sublime company of my favorite husband, all was well and we look forward to our reason to splurge on a visit!