Bonefish Grill

I enjoy dining out so in invitation from the people at Bonefish Grill though unexpected was much appreciated. From its 2000 beginning in St. Pete’s, it has expanded to approximately 150 locations across the U. S. I was glad to get a chance to rate the food myself.

Although reservations are not a must, our group chose to make some for 6:30 P. M. on a pre-holiday Thursday. The lounge was filled, comfortable and casual so we asked to be seated directly. The hostess complied immediately although the rest of the party had been delayed.

Jerry, our waiter, was pleasant and helpful. We decided to order some corn chowder with lump crab. By the time he returned with it, the first loaf of bread was gone. Back to the kitchen he went for more bread. Incidentally, it was one of the best chowders I have ever had, so, so rich, creamy, and full of bits of crab. My tastebuds delighted with every soupspoonful.

Jerry took time to tell us a little about the menu. Appetizers are made from scratch daily not bought frozen from the wholesaler. All seafood is fresh. Entrees are cooked over a signature oak-wood grill to give it a special smoky taste. Options of grill, saute, and bake satisfy every preference. By then the second loaf of bread was gone, so he left to get us more and fill our drinks.

About then our four dining companions arrived. Our waiter graciously took orders for drinks and more appetizers. Our party chatted until Caesar and house salads as well as bacon wrapped Atlantic sea scallops arrived. The sweet yet biting salsa which accompanied the scallops made the recipe stand out. We finished another loaf of bread and requested another.

Bonefish specializes in fish and seafood, but for land lubbers this seafood restaurant also has chicken, pork chops, and sirloin steak specialties. Its hands held items like tacos, fish and chips, crab cake sandwich for a quick lunch or a casual dining meal. Its Spanish, gluten free, and kids menus satisfy every taste and need.

Jerry took the adult orders–lobster thermador with maui maui, sea scallops and shrimp, filet mignon, sirloin steak and for the child grilled chicken. There must have been some problem in the kitchen as a lengthy delay in serving us our main courses followed. That is when timing ran amuck. We never got the last loaf of bread we requested. Requested coffee did not arrive until it was almost time for dessert. Refills on drinks were slower than before.

When finally served, all portions were ample. The garlic potatoes was a smash on everyone’s plate, and everyone wished there had been more. Everyone had an empty plate before him or her except for a wee bit of fish and a few child fries. Even though I am still on a diet I made sure I left room for dessert. I ordered chocolate creme brulee; hubby, vanilla (both delicious and worth every sinful calorie).

For $142 six people dined well. Please note: I am a tough scorer who rarely if ever gives a 10. Average is 5, Average+ 6, Good 7, Very Good 8, Excellent 9, and Perfect 10. On a scale of 1 to 10 I would rate the food 8, service 7, and ambiance 6 (minus for lacking holiday decor) for an over-all 7. What about #1-4? I do not return if perchance I ever went….

Just before we left, the manager came over to greet us and told us it had been a busy evening. She cordially invited us to return. The Bonefish Grill we visited is located at 179 Van Zile Road, Brick, NJ 08724. You can find the Bonefish Grill nearest you by visiting www.bonefishgrill.com.

With every $100 purchase of Bonefish Grill gift cards, guests receive a $20 bonus card for themselves and the chance to win the “Give, Get and Win Sweepstakes.” The grand prize winner will win $5,000 in cash for themselves and $5,000 to give to a local charity of their choice from select charitable organizations. In addition, Bonefish Grill restaurant employees throughout the country will be volunteering their time for a day of service to a local charity, furthering their commitment to giving back.

A git certificate was provided to me for the sole purpose of product testing and review. This review has not been monetarily compensated and is based on the views and opinions of my family and/or self. Please note that the opinions reflected in this post have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way.