Monday, March 29, 2010

Time for a (restau)rant

I don't do this very often, but it's time. The newly opened Tribeca Tavern in Cary is just an average joint. There. Greg Cox, the N&O food critic, said it was wonderful. Don't believe it. On a recent visit, my wife and I were treated to a burger with way too much stuff on it. Fried mashed potatoes for a topping? They grind their own burger, but it was a bit greasy and not very flavorful. A zucchini chips appetizer arrived hot and good, but again, greasy. The place is loud and busy. Fine for some, but for the expense, I'd like a bit more atmosphere. And speaking of expense -- could they have spared any more on the wine list? Only two glasses of red are offered, a merlot and a zin. That's it. Do they not know the wine culture in this part of the county? Maybe in N. Raleigh where the flagship of the company, Michael Dean's, is located people don't care so much about a decent wine-by-the-glass list, but around here with the competition keen on excellent wines, a short list is like sour grapes. Our waiter said they have a brown-bag policy, where if you BUY a bottle you can take what's left with you. Um, NO! Might as well buy a decent bottle from our friends at the Wine Merchant cheaper and drink it at home.
The bottom line...Tribeca will make a fine place to watch a game (there are big TV's everywhere), swig a brew and eat some average bar food, or if you need somewhere to take the kids for a meal. Or go across High House Road to Connelly's or Rudino's for better food and atmosphere. For a better burger, drive a little farther down High House and go to Spirits Pub and Grub.

No comments:

Post a Comment