Check out the new Return Visits section in Jeff's Reviews. Located on the bottom of the review, it will show my thoughts on follow up visits to a location.
6654 Koll Center Parkway
Pleasanton, CA 94566
(925) 600-8226
Map ItReview This RestaurantI went to lunch with a coworker the other day to Pronto's Gourmet Burritos in Pleasanton. It's somewhere I've been meaning to try, but have never made it to. When we got there and I looked at their menu on the wall I was a little confused. These are not your average burritos, with ones such as the Cajun chicken, or the Curry Chicken, or Prawn burrito. I went with the BBQ Chicken burrito ($6.49). They also give you your choice of tortilla, which I went with the tomato. As odd as the burrito sounded, I will have to say it was pretty good. Not very big though. My coworkers both got the Cajun Chicken burrito ($6.49) in a bowl and both liked theirs. Pronto's Gourmet Burrito's in Pleasanton is probably not somewhere I'll be back to any time soon but worth checking out.
Quality of food = 7
Service = 7
Value = 7
Cleanliness = 7
Avg cost per person - $9 no tip
6783 Dublin Blvd
Dublin, CA
(925) 999-8242
www.saharamkt.comMap ItMenuReview This RestaurantI got a nice surprise today when I finally made my way to the Kabob House located inside of the Sahara Market in Dublin. Its another one of those places Ive been meaning to try out, but havent gotten a chance until today. I had seen the neon Kabob sign in the window for a while now and wasn't sure what to expect on the inside. The place is your typical middle eastern market selling all kinds of things, but the real treat is in the back where they have about four tables, an open fire pit and a large oven where they make their fresh flat breads. They have a lunch menu as well as a dinner menu with the difference being the portion sizes. I opted for the lunch portion of chicken kabob ($5.99) which was a single kabob, some rice, a salad and some really tasty flat bread served with a side of some nice spicy chutney. I knew I was in for a treat while I sat and waited for my food and watched the ladys cook it over the open flame, with smoke pouring into the restaurant. After about 10 minutes or so they brought out my very nice sized portion of food. Everything was terrific. The salad I will say could have used some dressing though as it was just dry. The kabob was great. Nice and tender and very flavorful. The rice was nice too, and the flat bread they served with it was perfect. The Kabob House in Dublin was definitely a great find and somewhere I'm sure I'll be back to.
***UPDATE****
Ended up having some serious stomache "issues" beginning late night after eating at the Kabob House. Put me out for an entire day. What a real bummer because I thought I'd found a great find. I will probably give it a few months and give it one more try...
Quality of food = 7
Service = 7
Value = 9
Cleanliness = ??
Avg cost per person - $9 no tip
5681 Gibraltar Drive
Pleasanton, CA 94588
(925) 225-9999
www.sannidicuisine.comMap ItMenuReview This RestaurantA coworker of mine suggested we try an Indian buffet I didn't even know about for lunch today. Its called Sannidi Indian Cuisine in Pleasanton. He had never been there, so wasnt sure what to expect either. When we got there the place was pretty busy so that was good. We went in and grabbed a seat, and then made our way to the buffet ($9.95) line. I as usual got a little bit of everything. For the most part everything was good. I liked the samba soup, and the okra was good too. The highlight of the place for me was problably the tandoori chicken which was really good. One problem I had with a lot of the dishes though was that they werent really very temperature hot. Borderline lukewarm. After just recently getting food poisoning at The Kabob House I'm a little nervous, and keeping my fingers crossed. Honestly for the price I dont think I'll be going back when I can go to Chef India right up the street for I think $1 less.
Quality of food = 6
Service = 6
Value = 5
Cleanliness = 7
Avg cost per person - $12 with tip
443 Main Street
Pleasanton, CA 94566
(925) 417-0474
www.agorabistro.comMap ItMenuReview This RestaurantI went out to dinner tonight with my wife to Agora Bistro in Pleasanton. We decided to start off with an order of the calamari ($10) and the hummus ($8). After a few minutes our very attentive (although at the time we were the only people there) waiter dropped off the appetizers. At first we were a little confused by the hummus but he explained theirs is baked hummus. It was great, served nice and warm. Unfortunately I cant say the same for the calamari. It was overly breaded and just not very good. I also didn't like the sauce that came with it much. A little while later he returned with the entrees. I went with the lamb chop ($24). I was torn between it and the lamb kabob ($17) but the waiter recommended the chop so thats what I went with. My wife ordered the porcini mushroom ravioli ($16) which was a good sized serving of very tasty ravioli in a really nice cream sauce. The chops were good, but not what I was hoping for. They were served as 4 petite chops where I was hoping for a thick cut chop. Also a little overdone for my taste. That being said, they were still very good and I liked the assortment of vegetables and potatoes the chops were served over. We were pretty stuffed at this point and ready to call it quits when the waiter came back by with some complimentary bhakliva which was some of the best Ive had in a while. In all, friendly attentive service, and good food served in a nice atmosphere I would recommend taking a trip to Agora Bistro in Pleasanton.
Quality of food = 7
Service = 8
Value = 7
Cleanliness = 9
Avg cost per person - $30 with tip
6025 West Las Positas Boulevard
Pleasanton, CA 94588
(925) 484-3878
www.delatorres.net
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For lunch today I went to De La Torre's Trattorria in Pleasanton. This is a place I have been wanting to try, but the prices are a little steep for your typical lunch. Today a friend took me out for a business lunch so I was able to finally check it out. The ambiance was nice, although a little bright I thought. At first they brought us out this bread bowl type thing with a few different types of breads, as well as these nice looking bread sticks which I didn't try. The bread was good however, and it was nice that they have olive oil and basalmic on the table for the bread. For lunch I ordered the pan seared crusted hamachi ($15.95) with choice of brocollli or rigatoni. I went with the rigatoni. The hamachi was good, although the crust had a bit of a burnt taste to it. In all, a decent lunch, but definitely would not say it was worth the price. My friend ordered the gnocchi ($13.95) with the bolognese sauce which he liked, and the piece that I tried was good. One thing I thought was kind of cool was that John Madden walked in towards the end of our meal with his wife and someone else to have lunch. If you look at the decor picture you can sort of see the edge of his face behind his wife. Unfortunately she was sitting blocking him perfectly so I couldn't get a decent shot without being totally obvious. In all, De La Torre's Trattorria in Pleasanton is somewhere I would reccommend going to on someone elses bill as I don't really think its worth the price. That being said, Ive seen some pictures of their pizza and it looks great so I will have to try that sometime.
Quality of food = 7
Service = 7
Value = 5
Cleanliness = 9
Avg cost per person - $25 with tip
3015 Hopyard Rd Ste K
Pleasanton, CA 94588
(925) 462-3131
Map ItReview This RestaurantI went out to lunch to Sato Japanese Cuisine in Pleasanton with a group of people for work today. I originally was going to try and talk them in to going to Sendo Sushi in Pleasanton, but they said they knew of a place next to the Hopyard Brewery that was good. I had seen it a few times and always wondered if it was any good. It definitely was. The first thing you notice when you walk in is the small library area. I didn't get a chance to look around so I'm not sure if they were books for sale, or what but it was definitely unique. The place is also very small which I wonder if it can be hard to get in at times. We were there after 1pm for lunch so it wasn't a problem. I ordered the nigiri combo B ($17.90) which came with 9 really nicely sized pieces of nigiri and soup. I really liked their miso. The best Ive had in a while. After a few minutes the really friendly lady brought out my plate and I started getting my wasabi ready. I'm not sure of everything but there was for sure some really good unagi which was crisped more than Ive seen at other places and was very good. They also served smoked salmon which was really tasty. Wishing they would have also done a regular salmon because I'm sure theirs is great. The yellowtail was great. Not quite melt in your mouth but very good. There were three tunas. Maguro, a white tuna and Im not quite sure what it is called, but about 80% certain it was also a tuna. The maguro was pretty good. Im not a huge fan of maguro though typically. I find it tasteless. The white tuna was REALLY good. Probably the best thing I had. The other tuna was very similar to maguro, and very well could have just been a second piece. I was warned before going that the lady (owner?) likes to show people how to eat sushi and was happy to hear her come by and tell everyone at the table that I did because I was the only one eating with my hands. She called it finger food and gave me a hot towel. Nice. I wouldn't call Sato Japanese Cuisine cheap, but you definitely get what you pay for.
Quality of food = 9
Service = 8
Value = 8
Cleanliness = 9
Avg cost per person - $25 with tip
406 Hartz Ave
Danville, CA 94523
(925) 831-3276
www.mangia-mi.comMap ItMenuReview This RestaurantWe went to Mangia Mi in Danville the other night. When we got there the place was pretty busy for 5pm on a Saturday and with 5 of us our only option unless we wanted to wait for 20 min were two little tables they put together in a corner back by the bathrooms. At first we were going to wait, but it became pretty clear that the girls were not going to make waiting easy so by the bathrooms we sat. Fortunately no bad smells or anything, but it kind of sucked being stuck in the corner without a view of anything going on in the restaurant itself. I ordered the pollo parmigiana ($13) my wife ordered the gnocchi in a creamy garganzola sauce ($14) and for the girls we split an order of lasagna ($13). The chicken parm was pretty good. The chicken was however a little overdone, which could maybe be attributed to the fact that I had them serve it over spaghetti whereas its usually served with salad. Maybe it cooked a bit more sitting on top of the spaghetti? My wifes gnocchi was really good, but a very small portion. It does however say on the menu how many come with the order. My guess is more than one person has complained which is why they put that on there. The lasagna was really good and the girls seemed to like it. The service was good for the most part, other than towards the end they seemed to forget about us a bit. In all, good food a good prices we'll probably go back and try to get a better seat.
Quality of food = 8
Service = 7
Value = 6
Cleanliness = 8
Avg cost per person - $20 with tip
4920 Dublin Blvd #420
Dublin, CA 94568
(925) 833-0746
www.phoasianbistro.comMap ItMenuReview This RestaurantI had lunch the other day at Pho Asian Bistro in Dublin. Its a really small place with not many tables, which are arranged in a bit of a strange arrangements. I ended up in a corner of a sort of half booth table thing. I ordered the (been a few days now so cant remember what it was called exactly) but vermicelli noodles with pork over the top ($7.50). It came with a small spring roll sitting on top of a large bowl of really good vermicelli and fresh vegetables. The service was good other than I think I was forgotten about and eventually had to go up to the counter to get my check and pay. Other than that, the food that I had and looking around all looked really good and the prices were very reasonable. Definitely worth checking out Pho Asian Bistro in Dublin.
Quality of food = 8
Service = 7
Value = 8
Cleanliness = 8
Avg cost per person - $11 with tip
6654 Koll Center Parkway
Pleasanton, CA 94566
(925) 484-3714
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Today for lunch I went to Rage Super Burgers in Pleasanton. When I walked in I was a little confused by seeing the sign up at the register announcing a Korean Beef plate (Seems like the place is Korean owned) but after looking through their menu it looked like what I would expect to see with different burgers and such. It seems all their burgers are 1/3lb patties unless you go for their $5.99 special which is a burger, drink and fries but a 1/4lb burger instead of the 1/3lb. I ordered a Pepper Jack Burger ($5.29) and a side of fries ($1.49). The burger was pretty decent. Nothing special, just a plain patty with red onions, tomato, lettuce and pickles. The fries were pretty good. Thick cut and definitely a large portion. In all, a decent lunch for really cheap but there are other burger places out there for cheap as well... probably not somewhere I'll go back to.
Quality of food = 6
Service = 7
Value = 7
Cleanliness = 7
Avg cost per person - $8 no tip
7150 Village Pkwy
Dublin, CA 94568
(925) 235-3672
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Usually at Indian buffets they will tone down the heat. That is definitely not the case at Dosa Place in Dublin. Even after I got my home my mouth was still on fire. I've heard lots of good things about this place, and have been meaning to try it but always ended up going somewhere else I think mainly due to the fact that its all vegetarian, and at least before, all they served were Dosas, which as I understand are the large flat bread things in which you place whatever dish you order and eat it almost like an Indian burrito. I was driving by the other day and noticed their new sign announcing a lunch buffet so today I finally made it by there for lunch. The place is pretty decent size, and all very new looking on the inside. It was also very busy, and other than one other person I think we were the only white people which is also usually a good sign when going to whatever type of ethnicity restaurant. I did the lunch buffet ($8.99) and made my way through their total of about 12+ items. They had two different sizes of metal plates to choose from, a big one, and a huge one. I went with huge and piled on a little of everything. Unfortunately I didn't write down the names of anything but I will just say that everything I had was good. I do however need to go back with someone next time who has a better idea of what they are doing as I noticed most the people there using a lot of the small bowls to put their things in, as well as some other things I wasn't sure about. This place was a little different than other Indian buffets I've been to. In all, the food was good and I liked that it was kept authentic and spicy but I will be honest that the carnivore in me kept wishing there were some meat to be had. Its just not Indian without Tandoori. I also would think being that its all vegetarian the price should be a little cheaper than their meat serving counterparts, but its not. That being said, Dosa Place in Dublin is still worth checking out at least once.
Quality of food = 8
Service = 7
Value = 7
Cleanliness = 8
Avg cost per person - $11 with tip
6654 Koll Center Pkwy
Pleasanton, CA 94566
(925) 417-0930
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I went with the family to Stephanies Cafe in Pleasanton for breakfast today. We had been there at least a year ago and remembered liking it so finally made it back. The place is really large so getting a seat was not a problem. I also think that it being Jan 1st played a part in how empty it was. I ordered the Hayward omelette ($9.75) which was a 3 egg omellette with onions, tomato, linguisa and mushrooms. I opted for hash browns on the side and was surprised when I was asked if I wanted grilled onions on them, which of course I did. The hash browns were good, and the grilled onions were a nice touch. The omelette was ok, but nothing special. It was a little undercooked for my taste with some of the egg inside being a bit runny. The linguisa was just ok as well. I did like that they toasted my english muffin dark as requested. My wife ordered a Spanish omelette ($9.75) which I cant remember exactly what it had in it, but she opted to go with their wrap option which they will do with all the omelettes. Basically turns it into a big breakfast burrito. Just be aware that you lose your toast option when you do that. For the girls we went with two orders of the kids pancakes and bacon and sausage. The sausage looked really good. Nice big links. The bacon however was this shriveled up little pieces that didn't look good at all. The waitstaff was very friendly, giving the girls both necklaces and rings when we were done, as well as full coloring books to color while they waited. In all, decent food and nice waitstaff Stephanies Cafe is worth going to at least once.
Quality of food = 7
Service = 7
Value = 7
Cleanliness = 7
Avg cost per person - $13 with tip
4285 Valley Ave
Pleasanton, Ca 94588
(925) 484-0480
www.thehunanchef.comMap ItMenuReview This RestaurantToday for lunch I went to Hunan Chef in Pleasanton. I had actually gone there a few weeks ago with some people from work, but couldnt remember what it was called. Today I went with the mongolian beef lunch special ($7.95) which came with a cup of some pretty good hot and sour soup, a spring roll, some fried rice and a really generous portion of the mongolian beef. It was pretty good, but honestly nothing special. I definitely liked the szechuan fish ($8.95) I got the last time I went much better. Still a good place for a cheap meal though so I'm sure I will go back and try some more of their dishes.
Quality of food = 7
Service = 8
Value = 7
Cleanliness = 8
Avg cost per person - $11 with tip
7467 Village Parkway
Dublin, CA 94568
(925) 829-2300
Map ItReview This RestaurantThe Indian restaurant near my house, now with its third name (And apparently new owners) opened a couple weeks ago so I finally stopped by to try their lunch. The new name is Tandoori Bite, although there are currently two signs (one says Chaat Sweets House) which was the name they apparently were originally going to go with. No idea if they will take that sign down over time. Anyway, its pretty much the same inside although I think the tile floors were new, as definitely were the 3 flat screen TV's mounted on the walls playing Indian music videos. I opted for the buffet ($8.99) which had about 7 items or so. I made my way through everything, all of which was good. I really liked the lamb curry, and a potato dish they had. The chicken curry was just ok. Pretty bland. I was dissapointed when I saw the container that was labeled tandoori chicken empty, but after a few minutes they brought me out a huge piece which was really good and had a nice seasoning on it Ive not seen at other places. They also brought out some nice fresh hot naan. After eating a couple pieces, they brought out more, as well as another huge piece of tandoori. In all, the food was good, but really with all the other Indian places around I wouldnt call this one a standout and guess we'll see if it fares better than the others that were there prior....
Quality of food = 7
Service = 7
Value = 7
Cleanliness = 7
Avg cost per person - $12 with tip
1919 4th St
Berkeley, CA 94710
(510) 845-7771
www.mccormickandschmicks.comMap ItMenuReview This RestaurantI had I think the best chocolate truffle cake I've ever had for lunch at Spengers Fish Grotto in Berkeley. This is a place I always wanted to try when I was working out there, but for whatever reason never did. Dell was putting on a sales thing which included a free lunch there, so I made the drive to Berkeley. To start I went with their New England clam chowder which was very good. For my main dish I went with the grilled salmon which was also very good. Cooked very nicely, served with a nice mixed berry sauce. For the sides there was some steamed broccoli and your usual mashed potatoes. For dessert was the cake.... Im not usually a huge sweets fan, or especially a cake fan, but this was just delicious. Just so rich and delicious, and the raspberry sauce on the side was perfect. I ate every last bite of the rather large piece even though I was pretty full. They had us sitting in a conference room area in the back so I didn't get to check out the restaurant much, but as I was walking through it looked really nice, with a large bar area and just a nice rustic, homey feel to the place. I know the place has been around for years and with the ambiance, and food its no wonder why.
Quality of food = 8
Service = 8
Value = 7
Cleanliness = 8
Avg cost per person - $30 with tip
2707 Hopyard Rd
Pleasanton, CA 94588
(925) 600-8620
www.ranchograndetaqueria.comMap ItMenuReview This RestaurantI went and had lunch at Rancho Grande Taqueria in Pleasanton today. The place is your typical taqueria. Go up to the counter and order your food, make your way to the salsa bar and load up, and grab a seat and wait for your food. It's kind of hidden in the back corner of the shopping center, so Ive never noticed it before. The place was pretty empty when we first arrived which typically isn't a good sign. By the time we left though there wasn't an open seat in the place. I ordered a Super Wet Burrito with carnitas ($7.25). It was a pretty decent sized burrito. I wouldn't say huge, but not small either. The quality of the carnitas were very good. Not a single piece of fat, and had some nice crispy pieces which really made them taste nice. We heard from the owner that apparently John Madden comes in every Wednesday, so I was hoping to get a peek at him but didn't. I'll have to go back another time. In all, tasty taqueria food at good prices. Im glad I found a new lunch place.
Quality of food = 7
Service = 7
Value = 8
Cleanliness = 7
Avg cost per person - $9 no tip
3059 Hopyard Rd # G
Pleasanton, CA 94588
(925) 846-5251
www.chineseszr.bizMap ItMenuReview This Restaurant
I've tried a few times to go to the Chinese Szechuan Restaurant in Pleasanton, but apparently always on a Monday. Problem is, they are closed Mondays. I finally made it on a Tuesday, and walked in to a pretty packed restaurant which is always a good sign. I was seated immediately by the friendly staff and decided on the Mongolian beef lunch special ($6.75). First they brought me out a little salad which was pretty good, followed by a spring roll, a cup of some decent hot and sour soup, and a fried wanton. A few minutes later my waiter showed up with a small bowl of steamed rice, and a good sized plate of the mongolian beef. The beef was very good quality, and the sauce was very good. Definitely a really good lunch and somewhere I'll for sure go back to, just not on a Monday.
Quality of food = 7
Service = 7
Value = 8
Cleanliness = 7
Avg cost per person - $10 with tip
137 Anza St
Fremont, CA 94539
(510) 651-1213
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I had to go get my books and parking permit for a Linux class Im taking at Ohlone College, so I stopped by Tony's Tacos in Fremont for a quick lunch. I had originally tried to go to the hamburger place that shares the same building but after standing there, apparently invisible to the two women working in there for about 5 minutes I gave up and walked over to Tony's. I ended up ordering a Super Chicken burrito ($6.50) and found a table outside. That is one thing to be aware of this place, there is no inside seating. On a nice day like today I didn't think that would be an issue. That is, until the damn bees showed up. I seriously had to get up and make a run for it a few times as I had these 3 yellow jackets that just would NOT leave me alone. Landing on my burrito, and buzzing my face and just not taking no for an answer. It really sucked. So anyway, the food. The burrito was huge. For the most part it was pretty good, but the chicken was a little bland. Being in a rush I didnt take time to really survey the menu. If I had I probably would have gone with either the grilled chicken, or the fajita chicken. It came served with a small bag of chips, a little thing of red salsa, and a little thing of that salsa/guacamole combo stuff you see at some places. In all, pretty decent burrito but Id suggest going with a different meat other than the plain old chicken. I'm sure I'll be back some time and will try a different meat and review it.
Quality of food = 7
Service = 7
Value = 8
Cleanliness = 7
Avg cost per person - $8 no tip
4555 Hopyard Rd
Pleasanton, CA 94588
(925) 227-9000
Map ItReview This RestaurantToday for lunch I went to Sendo Sushi in Pleasanton. I originally had planned on getting some sushi, but after looking at their menu didn't want to spend $14+tax for an 8 piece nigiri combo so I went with the Bento box with Salmon and a California Roll. When I told the waitress thats what I wanted I swear I felt like I was being scolded for asking for it that way and had it made very clearly to me that it was the "S1" I was ordering. Ok. Wont make that mistake again. After a couple minutes she dropped off a cup of pretty ordinary miso soup. Then after what seemed like an eternity she brought out my box. It included a side salad which was pretty good. I liked the dressing. It also included a piece of salmon covered in a boring terryaki sauce, as well as 6 California rolls. The salmon wasn't that good and honestly had kind of a fishy taste to it. The California rolls were also nothing special. In all, not a great lunch. I wouldn't say it was horrible, but with so many sushi places nearby probably not somewhere I'll be going back to.
Quality of food = 6
Service = 5
Value = 6
Cleanliness = 8
Avg cost per person - $16 with tip
4805 Hacienda Dr
Dublin, CA 94568
(925) 560-1520
www.macaronigrill.comMap ItMenuReview This Restaurant
I had a really disapointing meal at the Macaroni Grill in Dublin the other night. My wifes dad had sent us this gift card he got for $50 that could be used at Macaroni Grill, Chilis, On the Border and somewhere else. Unfortunately we chose to go to Macaroni Grill with the girls. At first they were going to seat us in the back at a table where the sun was just pouring in. Usually this wouldnt have been a huge deal, but I had just spent the entire day in the sun at the A's game (and before the game) so sitting in the sun wasn't something I wanted to do. They ended up putting us at a table in the center and took our drink orders. I ordered a glass of their sangria ($5.49) which tasted so watered down. Seriously. I think they made a large batch with ice in it, and all the ice melted. My wife ordered a peach martini ($7.49) which she said was very good. For the food, we ordered the calamari ($8.49) which was ok but nothing special at all. Served with a marinara sauce as well as an aoli sauce it was a dissapointment as I was looking forward to some good calamari which I havent had in a while. One of the kids got a bowl of Mac and Cheese ($4.99) which she seemed to like, as well as spaghetti and meatballs ($5.99) which our other daughter seemed to like well enough. For our entrees, I ordered by my friends suggestion, the Chicken Marsala ($13.49) which ended up being 3 tiny pieces of chicken and some pretty sorry looking pieces of portabello mushroom with a small side of spaghetti. Luckily I wasn't very hungry or I probably would have been pretty upset. As it was I just thought it was pretty lame. I also had a side cesar salad ($2.29) which again was nothing to write home about. My wife ordered the Carmelas Rigatoni ($12.49) which was Grilled chicken, mushrooms, caramelized onions, fresh basil and Parmesan cheese tossed with rigatoni pasta and Marsala cream sauce. This was also a pretty small portion. She seemed to like it well enough, although she did say there wasn't much chicken in it at all. For dessert we got an order of the tiramisu ($6.49) which was actually pretty good. In all, we just felt that we didn't get out moneys worth (bill ended up being $73 without tip) so definitely won't be going back, and wishing we had used the card somewhere else.
Quality of food = 6
Service = 6
Value = 4
Cleanliness = 8
Avg cost per person - $20 with tip
3712 Dublin Blvd
Dublin, CA 94568
(925) 361-0447
www.buffalowildwings.comMap ItMenuReview This Restaurant
I was in the mood for hot wings last night, and wanted to try somewhere other than Wingstop so I did a search and found a place in Dublin called Buffalo Wild Wings. When I walked in I was surprised by how big the place was. It was huge, and full of TV's (including two huge screens). I was also surprised that even as large as this place is, and with its odd location there was still a wait to be seated. I made my way past that and found myself a spot at their large bar. After a few minutes I was able to stare down a manager to get my order taken (Ive heard some complaints about the service, and I have to say I wasn't too thrilled with their bartenders). I ordered a set of 12, and 24 wings for a total of 36 which came out to about $28. We went with 20 of the hot, and 16 of the hot bbq. I ordered a 23oz Mirror Pond Ale ($5.92) while I waited and watched the A's game. After about 10 minutes someone brought out my wings, and I went home. When we opened them I noticed that they were a bit larger than the ones you get at Wingstop (My one complaint with that place, small wings). They were nice and saucy, cooked well and very tasty. My one regret was getting the hot bbq ones. They didn't really taste like bbq much at all, and coupled with the hot, our mouths were on fire eating them all. Another nice thing is that they give you plenty of blue cheese, ranch and celery for free. With its great wings, tons of TV's to watch plenty of games, and good beers on tap I think that Buffalo Wild Wings will be around for a long time and is definitely worth checking out.
Quality of food = 8
Service = 5
Value = 7
Cleanliness = 8
Avg cost per person - $16 with tip
6003 W Las Positas Blvd
Pleasanton, CA 94588
(925) 462-1678
www.chicagodeli.usMap ItMenuReview This RestaurantI got stuck on a call at lunch time today so when I finally got off the call about 1pm I was starving. I've been noticing a deli across the street, so I figured this would be the perfect opportunity to check it out and get something close and quick. It is called Chicago's Metropolitan Deli in Pleasanton. When I walked in I realized it was more than just a deli. It was kind of a cross between a deli and an actual restaurant with plenty of seating available. I took a quick glance at their menus posted on the wall, and placed my order at the counter and grabbed a seat. I ordered the Hary Cary ($6.99) which was a sandwich served on a sub roll with smoked turkey, gouda cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, sprouts (None for me thanks), spicy brown mustard and mayo. Let me first say that the picture Ive got here does not give the size of this sandwich justice. It was pretty big. The sandwich was good, but after I started eating it and my blood sugar levels started returning to normal I started really looking over the menu and was wishing Id given it a more thorough lookover the first time. If I had I would have probably ordered something from their Famous Chicago Sandwiches portion of the menu with things like Chicago dogs, Italian Beef sandwich, etc. The place itself was pretty cool with a counter up front to sit at and watch sports on the TV, and drink one of their I think I counted 5 beers on tap. With it being so close to the office I know I'll be back probably more than once and make my way through their pretty vast menu.
***UPDATE***
I think I am going to end up changing this to my favorite deli. Ever have one of those places where when you go, no matter what you get you just know it is going to be good? That's how I feel about Chicago's Metrolpolitan Deli in Pleasanton.
Quality of food = 8
Service = 7
Value = 7
Cleanliness = 8
Avg cost per person - $10 no tip
828 Main St
Pleasanton, CA 94566
(925) 931-1901
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I went exploring around Pleasanton at lunch time today. I came across Emilio's Mexican Restaurant on Main Street and decided to check it out. As I walked in I think I walked in on the tail end of a rush so it took a little while to get helped, as well as for the food to show. The guy walking around who Im pretty sure is the owner (Was he Emilio? Couldn't tell you). I took a look at their menu and focused on their pretty limited lunch time specials. The options were pretty much an enchilada, a taco or a burrito all coming in around the $8 mark. I decided on a large chili verde burrito ($7.95) with their mole sauce (.75). The burrito was pretty good size. Not too small, but big enough to leave me quite full. The mole on top was what they referred to as their enchilada mole, not your typical mole that you are probably used to. According to the possible Emilio, they do serve a traditional mole on Saturday nights which he says is very good. This mole was good too. It tasted kind of like a cross between a mole, and enchilada sauce expectedly. The burrito itself was very good. One of the better burritos Ive had in a long time. The quality of the chili verde was excellent with it being very tender and lean. Everything else inside the burrito was also very good including refried beans, sour cream, cheese and salsa. I didn't notice any rice in there. The salsa they serve with chips pre meal was also really good. It was a salsa verde that had a certain sweetness to it. I'm sure I will be back, and might just have to go on a Saturday night to try their mole. If you are looking for some quality authentic Mexican food in the Pleasanton area then Emilio's is worth checking out.
Quality of food = 8
Service = 8
Value = 7
Cleanliness = 7
Avg cost per person - $16 with tip
3015 Hopyard Rd # A
Pleasanton, CA 94588
(925) 462-0994
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I got lunch today at Zorn's restaurant in Pleasanton. When I walked in the first thing I noticed is that I think was the youngest person there by about 20 years. And at 36 Im no spring chicken. The place was also pretty empty; I'm assuming they get most of their business during breakfast. The decor all looked like something out of the 70's, including the old movie posters on the walls. Basically what Im saying is don't go here expecting an energetic, hip environment. If you want something like that then go next door to the
Hopyard Brewery. After standing in the front landing area for a minute a lady behind the counter told me to grab a seat wherever I wanted so I grabbed a small two person booth. I looked over the menu and upon asking the waitress if the corned beef hash was home made and finding out it wasn't (Always a dissapointment) I decided to go with the Super Bird ($8.75) which is basically their version of a Turkey Club. It came with sliced turkey, swiss, tomato, avacado and bacon on grilled sourdough. I chose fries for my side. There was a pretty fair amount of avacado, as well as all the other things in there. I do have to say the sandwich was a bit dry though. Could have used some mayo or something to liven it up. I kept having to dip it in my ketchup. Another thing worth mentioning was the swiss cheese. It was that cheap almost tastes like American cheese type which was too bad. That being said, the sandwich was still decent, just could have been better. The fries were pretty decent. Served VERY hot. Personally I like mine a bit crispier though so would probably ask for that next time. In all, its not a place I will rush back to, or would recommend bringing a date to. But I will go back and try their breakfast one of these days and I could see it being a good place to bring the family for a weekend breakfast, but be sure and watch for a return visit so I can tell you how those are.
Quality of food = 6
Service = 7
Value = 7
Cleanliness = 6
Avg cost per person - $12 with tip
1645 Bonanza St
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
(925) 930-8000
www.babalous.comMap ItMenuReview This Restaurant
I went and picked up a lamb kabob ($8.25) at Babalous Mediterranean in Walnut Creek today. When I walked in I was greeted by a really friendly guy behind the counter whom answered a couple of my questions very warmly. When I ordered the kabob I was asked if I wanted it as a wrap, or over rice. I opted to go with the wrap, and later realized the rice option would have cost an additional $2.50. I went and grabbed a seat from their row of tables lined along the back wall, which are kind of tight and close together giving the place the feel of a somewhat of a larger city restaurant. After a few minutes another guy brought out my lunch. It wasn't really what I was expecting. I was thinking more of a pita bread, this was more like a burrito. I unwrapped the foil and took my first bite. The wrap was really dried out, and crusty which kinda blew the whole thing for me. The lamb other than a couple of fatty pieces was really good and flavorful, along with most of the other stuff inside (tomato, cucumber, tzatziki sauce and supposedly some hummus which I didnt see or taste). Honestly, for $9 after tax I was really hoping for more. Maybe my experience would have been better if I had chosen the over rice option, but really for that overall cost you are spending about the same amount that you would (at least for the lunch special) as you would at Silk Road right up the street which I think is MUCH better. Unless you're looking to get something either really quick, or to go I'm sorry to say, because I really liked the guys, but I would not recommend Babalous.
Quality of food = 7
Service = 8
Value = 6
Cleanliness = 8
Avg cost per person - $12 no tip
1410 Locust Street
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
(925) 946-1520
www.pyramidbrew.comMap ItMenuReview This RestaurantToday was my going away lunch for the City of Walnut Creek, so I decided to go to Pyramid Brewery and Alehouse for lunch. I've been to the ones in Berkeley, and Sacramento as well as drank their beers many times. Unfortunately, this being a work lunch thing beer was not an option. This place is really spacious, with a large patio in the back, as well as seating in the front patio so it gave it kind of a feel that the restaurant was a bit emptier than it really was. There were a total of 7 of us, so they put us at a table in the back area. I ordered the blackened salmon ($12.50) which was a salmon fillet topped with lemon aoli, and served with fingerling potatoes and usually their mixed vegetables, which I substituted for the grilled asparagus and red peppers. I'll be honest, when it first came out I thought they'd brought me the wrong thing as it was in no way blackened. I didn't even see the according to their menu "house blackening spices" rubbed on it at all. This was a bit of a bummer as I was really looking forward to a blackened piece of fish. That being said though, the fish was still good as was the aoli. The potatoes were nothing too special. Just lightly seasoned small potatoes cut in half. The asparagus and peppers were pretty tasty. In all, a good lunch, but again a bit of a bummer that the fish wasn't done right. The Pyramid Brewery and Alehouse in Walnut Creek is a good place to go watch a game on one of their many flat screen TV's, grab a good bite to eat and drink a good beer. They also have some pretty decent happy hour prices M-F 3:30-6pm on their appetizers and beers.
Quality of food = 7
Service = 7
Value = 7
Cleanliness = 6
Avg cost per person - $14 with tip
6654 Koll Center Parkway
