Lawrence G.
Yelp
On our way home from Windsor, we decided to stop at the Rutherford Grill. We were told the wait would be about 20 minutes, which was fine by us. While we were waiting, I overheard another person talking to the hostess about a birthday. Not exactly sure what was said, but it piqued my curiosity.
As we waited, I heard the hostess chatting with a coworker about December birthdays. Naturally, I couldn't resist showing my ID and letting her know that my birthday was coming up in two days. She wished me a happy birthday, which was a nice touch, and soon we were escorted to our table. The hostess placed a card on the table, and I guessed it indicated someone with a birthday was seated there.
We've been to the Rutherford Grill several times, and the ambiance never disappoints--charming and inviting as always. Shortly after we were seated, our server, Daniel, arrived. He introduced himself and immediately wished me a "Happy Birthday." On his recommendation, we ordered two Lemon Drop Martinis with a splash of raspberry puree. Great choice!
For our entrees, I went with the Ruby Red Trout with a side of Wild Rice Salad--lightly seasoned and hardwood grilled, served with crispy rock shrimp and lemon butter sauce. My wife opted for the Kale & Rotisserie Chicken Salad with emerald kale, slow-roasted chicken, roasted peanut vinaigrette, and grated Reggiano. Everything was absolutely delicious, and my wife and I couldn't stop exchanging compliments about how good the food was.
Daniel checked on us a few times and even brought us brand new chilled glasses for our drinks, which was a nice touch I've never seen at a restaurant before. At the end of our meal, Daniel asked if we needed dessert menus. This is where the disappointment set in. Despite the hostess and Daniel knowing it was my birthday; I wasn't offered a birthday dessert to help celebrate it. It was really off-putting, and I've noticed more and more restaurants not making this gesture for guest birthdays like they used to.
Given the time we took to stop in and the amount we spent--prices have skyrocketed--it felt like the restaurant industry as a whole doesn't show appreciation to their patrons anymore. It's all about every dollar they can make (sorry to digress, just a personal pet-peeve). Overall, I can't say I felt great about the visit, but it wasn't horrible either. If you're looking for good food and ambiance, the Rutherford Grill is a solid choice. However, if you're celebrating something special like a birthday or anniversary, you might want to manage your expectations.