Jeff Podvin We were able to get a table, without a reservation which was nice. It took a minute for the hostess (costumed-angry raggedy Ann) to acknowledge we were there. I got the feeling she did other jobs too... maybe server assistant. The restaurant was sufficiently quant, clean, and well-decorated. The star of the show was definitely the server. She was friendly and even ran upstairs to grab me some decaf.
Now for the food- I got the ribeye and my wife ordered the steak medallions. Both were good- and the price was more than fair. My wife typically doesnt like steak- and always get medium-well- she said the medallions were still so tender/juicy. And for $32, I was pleasantly surprised at the flavor, presentation, etc. The Ribeye, $40- was prepared excellently and was prime ribeye. The flavor reminded me of a picanha steak; it came with compound garlic herb butter which complimented it nicely.
There was a large party in the next room that shared the attention of the one server- she handled it beautifully. The bartender did appear slightly bothered to make the drinks for the large party (she had 7 folks on her side to worry about)-
I wasnt too sure about a few things- I found it odd there wasnt warm bread or rolls- especially for a place called the Duke (which screams steak, potatoes, bread). But at the price point (low for such great food), this was not an unmet expectation.
Then the costumed-angry raggedy Ann- its the week of Halloween and the hotel itself was decorated... Im not sure if she was angry, hated her job, or playing a character. Nonetheless, the service and food were on point- so it didnt diminish our experience. Well likely make a trip back sometime.
