MANDARIN GRILL

A place where service is excellent and the staff greet you like family. While Mandarin Grill can be busy on weekdays over lunch, evenings are much more relaxed, with lamps dimmed, candles lit and curtains drawn. Tables are generously spaced and great for extended hours of conversation. The menu, which showcases meat and seafood dishes, has been given a modern update by the talented kitchen team.

The place is known for its top billing oysters, (Gillardeau, Perle Blanche, Majestic, Fanny Bay and Kumamoto, to name a few), so if you’re the type who loves them, make sure to order a batch of what’s in season. Highlights of the dinner menu include the grilled octopus, mikan orange and white miso, which is perfectly cooked— tender and buttery soft. As for the main, would recommend any of the steak options, especially the daily carvery special, which comes with a choice of roquefort, green peppercorn, truffle bearnaise or piquillo sauce. The sommelier’s recommendations were all spot-on, and the wine list is a broad range of bottles and sizes, with most of the wine-producing regions represented. Service is personal and sophisticated; remember to let them know if you are celebrating a special occasion.