Porter Creek Hardwood Grill — Restaurant in Burnsville

Porter creek is an establishment that is propped up by its dazzling looks and ritzy atmosphere. The establishment is no doubt gorgeous, but the food here is lacking any soul or complexities of flavor that make it stand out and be something desirable or memorable. What was memorable was the mediocrity from the staff as soon as you stepped through the door, we were asked if we had a reservation on a Monday at roughly noon, we stated we did not, and the host spend the next few minutes carefully scrutinizing his book of reservations before finally seating us at one of the many available tables.

The waitresses didn't seem to have sections they were responsible for, as they just flew around the restaurant with no real rhyme or reason to it; our waitress in particular must have been having a very difficult day, as we had to explain or order to her at least 5 times (3 orders of wings and two different sandwiches). After receiving our initial drink orders we didn't see our waitress for at least 15 to 20 minutes, when she came back she complained that "all the customers had came at once and she doesn't understand why we don't all just space out a little". Got my refill, and did not see her again until nearly the end of our dining experience.

As far as the delivery of our food goes, it was comical at best, one order of wings came out about 20 minutes early despite asking for all the food to be brought together, a random bread basket was delivered to the table about 10 minutes after that, and one of whatbi assume was the managers ended up delivering our food himself, maybe 10 minutes after the bread was delivered.

When the waitress returned she asked us if we wanted desert, didn't give us the opportunity to say no, described them all in great detail, and left without allowing us to say no. Came back again a while later to ask again, stood around trying to make conversation while we were only waiting to receive our bills which also needed to be explained 3 times. Two people on one and three on the other. Oh yes and the icing on the whole experience, our friend got one final refill on water just to have black particles of something floating in his water.

From start to finish this experience was lack luster and left no desire in me to return and...

We have been here many times in the past and always receive great food and decent service. Today (it was 2:15ish) we were seated and didn't see any server for 5 minutes. I went to the restroom to wash my hands and told my wife my drink order in case someone comes. When I returned, still no one. The restaurant probably had 25 people total in it. I sat for about 10 more minutes and figured that someone must not be assigned to our table. I decided to go to the bar and at least order and pay for the 1st round of beverages so that when they finally came, we wouldn't have to wait another 10 minutes with nothing in front of us. I returned and sat for another 5 minutes when the server came over and apologized (he said that no-one told him we were there) he asked if we wanted to order. I told him that because I was up at the bar getting the beverages, I hadn't decided yet but would in 1-2 minutes. He said great when you know, set your menu on the corner of the table so I know you're ready. We were ready and placed the menu where he said. We waited 10 more minutes. Nobody. I finished my beer and set it on the menus. I told my wife if someone didn't come back in 5 minutes, we would leave. 5 minutes came and went and we walked out the door. It was nice that the Hostess wished us a great day on the way out, so that was nice. We are pretty patient people with fairly low expectations (my wife had been a server in the past) when we go to restaurants but this was a swing and miss by the staff (the bartender was great!). I think maybe go there when it is busy so you get the more...

Porter Creek is a mainstay of the south metro dining scene. Classy, fresh, and oh so delicious - it is exactly what it aims to be: a moderate to high end eating establishment that is both refined and comfortable.

From the wood accents, to the vaulted ceiling, and even the delicious aroma of a wood fire rotisserie roaring near the kitchen, your senses are warmed as you enter the comfortably lit seating area, and the good vibes continue on from there.

Whether opting for a healthy option like the wine country salad (complete with oven roasted grapes, and Gorgonzola cheese), the delectable Prime Rib Dip, or indulgent Asiago-Crusted Pork Tenderloin sandwich, the lunch options are excellent.

The wood burning rotisserie makes amazing chicken wings - only rivaled (dare I say bested?), by the incredible Doolittle’s Woodfire Grill in Eagan - another treasure! But be forewarned, after these babies you will never look at a chicken wing the same again!

The service is pleasant and attentive - if somewhat scripted. If we hadn’t brought a customer here two days in a row (at their request following the first visit!), I never would have known that the servers said nearly the exact same thing (at least in greeting/specials) though.

In the evenings, the portions are large and delicious. There is a lovely patio for the warmer months, and seating room big enough for large groups.

This place is a slam dunk. While not inexpensive - although half price bottles of wine on Tuesday don’t hurt! - I encourage you to give it a try. It might just be your new favorite! It certainly is...