I was here the other day for dinner with a friend (party of 2), and I did not have a very good experience.
PLACE 2 stars: The restaurant is located inside the Rivers Casino in Des Plaines. There is a lot of free parking (indoors and outdoors), and the Casino is conveniently located on River Road and Devon. There is a nice bar area before entering the dining room, which is also very fine. The size of the table was great, and it was perfect for two people. Unfortunately, and as noted by other reviews, the restaurant is VERY noisy because it is located inside a Casino. This turned out to be very annoying and made the visit very unpleasant.
SERVICE 5 stars: Upon arrival we were greeted promptly and we took a seat at the bar before proceeding to dinner. The cocktails at the bar were great, and there were many TV screens around for you to watch (I did because there was a basketball game I was interested in). Ater moving into the dining area, we were also greeted very promptly (we had reservations), we were shown to our table, and the waiter took our order very quickly. Our waiter was very attentive, and came to check on us repeatedly. He was very accommodating and clearly made an effort to make our stay very pleasant.
FOOD 1 star: We shared some appetizers: oysters and fried calamari. The calamari was excellent (the best I ate that night), but the oysters were not. As a matter of fact, I got poisoned and had vomits and diarrhea afterwards. This was obviously very painful, and it totally ruined my experience. For entrees I had the Shrimp Dejonghe, which I was very much looking forward to, but it was mediocre at best. For dessert I ordered the creme brulee, and it was very good (although too big, next time I will share).
CONCLUSION 2.5 stars: For $270 (cocktails and dinner for two people), I was really expecting much more than this. The service was outstanding, but the noise and the food are not worth me...
Read moreX CELL INT! DOOR - MENUS: PRINTED DAILY!!, TABLE, WATER & DRINKS+ ALCOHOLIC / NON ALCOHOL/ COFFEE:: SPECIALS & SOUP OF THE DAY:: MINUTES-- ORDER -- SOUP+ SALAD FIR + ONE. MAIN COURSE! HOT / COLD D - FRESH & AS ORDERED ( RARE- MED - WELL OR IN BETWEEN EACH) SIDES ARE FRESH & SEASONAL!
PEOPLE= GREET & MRNU& SEAT: WATER & REMOVE EXTRA SETTINGS : SERVER: WATER, BREAD & BUTTER, MAIN DRINK: SERVER TALES ORDER& BRINGS ORDER: EACH PLATE IS REMOVED, WATER OR ASK FOR DRINK REFILL OR BREAD/ BUTTER/ SAUCES/ LEMON& ONION& SAUCES ETC.
END GAME/ ORDER(S) CHECK!
CLEAN, QUIET UPON REQUEST, TABLE OR BOOTH, CANDLES AFTER DARK ( OUTSIDE - NO WINDOWS: ) NEAT, ORDERS AND REQUEST CORRECT!
FOOD : EXCELLENT MEAT/ FISH, FRESH VEGTABLES, SOUPS, SALADS --- FULL BAR!
DELICIOUS! IF CONTAINERS FOR LEFT OVERS & BAGS.
PORTIONS PROPER & ABOVE. PRICES ABOVE, BUT EQULIVANT TO THE " GIBSONS STEAK HOUSE" DOWN TOWN -- BUT MORE COZY.
MY SANDWICH: GREAT PRESENTATION AND FLAVORS! SOUP ( BOOKBINDERS" A FISH / BOUILLABAISSE TYPE WITH SEASONAL VEGETABLES. ICE WATER WITH LEMON & strong COFFEE! # + ONE- BEEF MEDALIONS, MED RARE -- LIKE A COOKING SHOW / COOKBOOK LOOK & TENDER AS MARSHMALLOWS, ASPARAGUS FRESH & OUT OF SEASON :: HERE - MATURE/ RIPE GRILLED WITH SAUCES _ FULL SIZE! $68.XX WITH ONE COFFEE & WATER FOR + ONE.
( CHECK MENU ON INTERNET !)
JUST BY GATE TO CASINO - BUT NOT " IN" GAMBLING AREA, NO SMOKING ( THERE OR BUFFET) HIGH STAKES ROOMS & GAMBLING ARE + TWO BARS - SMOKING & NON SMOKING AREAS. ENCLOSED AND LOT PARKING: EASY TRANSPORTATION ( BY CAR, SHUTTLE TO/ OR CASINO BUSES) TO MOST AIRPORT HOTELS/ CONVENTION IR CONCERT VENUES.
TRY IT, YOU AND FRIENDS WILL...
Read moreI recently had the pleasure of dining at Hugo Frog, the restaurant located within Rivers Casino, and it was truly an outstanding experience. From the moment I walked in, the ambiance was inviting, with a perfect blend of sophistication and comfort.
The menu offered a delightful variety of dishes, showcasing a creative fusion of flavors. Each dish was impeccably presented, reflecting the chef's dedication to culinary excellence. The freshness of the ingredients was evident, and the attention to detail in every bite was remarkable.
The staff at Hugo Frog played a significant role in making the evening memorable. Their attentiveness and knowledge of the menu were commendable, contributing to the overall enjoyable atmosphere. The service was prompt, yet not rushed, allowing for a leisurely and satisfying dining experience.
The restaurant's commitment to customer satisfaction was evident throughout the evening. Whether it was accommodating special requests or offering recommendations, the staff went above and beyond to ensure a personalized and enjoyable meal.
In addition to the fantastic food and service, the restaurant's interior design and layout added to the overall charm. The comfortable seating, well-spaced tables, and tasteful decor created a welcoming environment that complemented the culinary delights.
Hugo Frog at Rivers Casino is more than just a dining experience; it's a culinary journey that exceeds expectations. I highly recommend it to anyone seeking a combination of exceptional cuisine, impeccable service, and a delightful atmosphere. It truly stands out as a gem within the casino...
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