I visited here with my partner a couple of weeks ago, and overall it was quite an underwhelming experience from what was anticipated.

It was confusing finding the parking, so if you’re not a local I’d recommend setting aside some time aside before your reservation to find the complex. Once we entered the establishment, we were greeted warmly by the staff, and our coats were taken for us (nice!) while we confirmed our reservation.

While going to our table, the ambience was unimpressive, aside from the scenic views and table set up. The floors look like outdated office carpet and there was a large wall that separated the cocktail lounge area from the main dining area, which seemed slightly tacky.

Our server was a kind and knowledgeable individual who did his job well. He had a sparkling personality, but I felt rushed to finish my plates after explaining that I’m a bit of a slower eater than my partner who inhales his food in less than five minutes.

In all, we each ordered two Thyme Out’s (a delicious thyme based cocktail that I could drink by the gallon,) 5 Rivers Gator as an appetizer, the Bon Secour (choice of swordfish) and the Dauphin’s Dolphin as entrees, and a creme brûlée for dessert. We also received complimentary bonbons since we came for a special occasion, and the creme brûlée was comped out due to an issue with the appetizer. Our bill was around $150 pre-tax and tip, so although it as up there it was reasonable for the kind of establishment that it is.

The 5 Rivers Gator was the most delicious fried alligator I’ve had in my life, and the house buttermilk ranch and glaze that’s served on the side really completed the dish. It was juicy and cooked to perfection. It was the highlight of our meal! However, I did make sure to mention both in my reservation AND while we were seated that I’m allergic to shrimp and crab, and there was a stray fried shrimp that managed to make its way onto our plates. I understand that accidents happen and it was likely due to something going on in the kitchen, but if I wasn’t paying attention it would’ve been a completely different story, and I was paranoid for the rest of our dinner for cross contamination risks which soiled the mood.

I chose the Bon Secour with swordfish, the fish was cooked perfectly but the rice and additions to the plate weren’t anything special. The entire dish lacked flavor and dimension, and I regretted not ordering something different.

My partner chose the Dauphin’s Dolphin and essentially encountered the same experience, and his plate looked nearly identical to mine- just a different kind of fish. For the price of the entrees and marketing of the menu, we were expecting a lot more out of what we got.

For dessert I asked for the server to surprise me, and he chose a creme brûlée (generally my favorite dessert.) He advocated heavily for the key lime pie, which I think I would try if I were to visit again. I had it packed to go, and ate it within an hour or two of ordering it and it honestly wasn’t palatable. It’s likely my fault since it wasn’t chilled in a fridge or freezer for those couple of hours, but the flavor simply wasn’t there.

In all, I’d recommend visiting for the lounge area for a drink and a bite. The dinner scene has some room for improvement from what I experienced.