It's all about Value (relatively speaking)
Written: Jul 22 '01
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Pros: Excellent Food, Moderate Price, did I mention - Excellent food?
Cons: Very Crowded
The Bottom Line: You want gourmet French food, but don't want to break the bank? Look no further.
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| paulchua's Full Review: Fringale |
Fringale
I first heard of this restaurant from Zaget’s. They had rated the food 26/30 (Superb) and it had one of the lowest costs. Intrigued, I quickly visited epinions to see what people had to say about it. I was pleased that 3 out of 4 people seemed to agree with Zaget’s assessment, and the other person didn’t recommend it because of bad service and not bad food (hey waiters can have an off day).
I wanted to take my fiancée to someplace nice, that wasn’t going to break the bank. I also wanted to try French cuisine un in Northern California. Fringale seemed to fit perfectly.
Zaget’s breaks down there rating by four Categories, Food – Décor – Service – Cost.
I will also use this as a guide for my review.
FOOD
Following the recommendations for the past reviewers, I ordered the cheese terrine as an appetizer. It was heavenly, very rich with flavor – layers of cheese and texture danced in my mouth. My fiancée closed her eyes in contentment with every bite. It is truly is a dish not to be missed. It was a bombardment of different flavors to the mouth. Very cheesy, saltly, yet meaty - truly a medly of delights. Highly recommended (Price $9.00)
Once again, following the recommendations of past reviewers, I ordered the rack of lamb. I had it prepared rare. That was when I experienced what I call the “jungle.” Let me explain the jungle. Have you ever had a steak that was so delectable, that it not only satisfied your taste buds, but it also awakened primordial feelings of gratification? It is a deep feeling of fulfillment; it can only come with a well-prepared rare steak. Creamy potatoes and wonderfully flavored green beans beautifully complemented the lamb. The presentation was flawless, I felt bad disturbing the work of art presented before me. Each piece of meat would melt in your mouth. The flavor was complex, but never overpowering. I was truly impressed by this dish. Most Recommended (Price $22.00)
My fiancée ordered the Salmon. She received a large portion, prepared just as beautifully as my dish. It was garnished with Braised Leeks & Fried Onions. The Salmon was very delicious, tender and prepared with a generous helping of sauce. The aroma were masterfully imbedded in the leeks, with each bite, intense (but not overbearing) flavors would be unlocked. This was a special treat. I would recommend it for Salmon fans without reservation. (Price $18.00)
For desert, we shared a chocolate pastry mixed with nuts. Once again, prepared for the discriminating palate in mind. The one thing that constantly stood out to me was the texture of the sauce and pastry. The melted chocolate was neither too thin nor thick. The crunchy nuts contrasted the velvety smooth river of chocolate. This difference was quite a gift to my mouth I must say. Recommended (Price $7.00)
(Overall Food 28/30)
Décor
The Décor is very nice, understated and contemporary – it does a find job making you feel in the "in". The only problem with this restaurant is that they truly pack you in like Sardines. You will no doubt be within inches from the next table. If you want a romantic “private” affair, this is a huge turnoff. You cannot blame them though, the place is so popular, and they had to smash everybody together in order to accommodate demand. It’s a place that you wish they didn’t crowd you so much when you’re there and you wish they would crowd even more when you’re trying to get reservations or waiting in line.
So be prepared to be hearing and seeing the folks eating dinner next to you. (Tip: there are some more private tables then others, try to get the ones that are in the center, or in a corner – it’s better then being sandwiched in from both sides)
It’s also not in the best area of town (it’s in the business district), but this shouldn’t matter when you’re inside. A good side of this is that there is ample parking all around. You should not have to walk more then 2 blocks to get there. Free parking is always good!
(Decor Overall 13/30)
Service
The service is very good, nothing to rave about, but very much on par with a place like this. You should have no problem getting your needs attended to. Granted, you don’t have a waiter that practically sits with you (I’ve had service that good other places) but you will not be disappointed with the service.
(Overall 23/30)
Cost
The evening set us back about $60, extremely reasonable for what we got. We got an appetizer, two entrees and dessert. This is a very good price. Granted we didn’t order wine (we just came from another party and drank a little too much.) So expect to spend about $100 if you plan on ordering wine. (They had a decent wine list, not very extensive – but their selections more then complement the meals adequately)
So overall – I recommend this place if you want to celebrate an anniversary (and don't place to much emphasis on privacy), or take out some friends to great French dining. I cannot stress this point enough - you will be crowded, so keep this mind. If this does not bother you, bon appetite!
Recommended:
Yes
Kid Friendliness: Yes
Vegetarian Friendly: Yes
Notes, Tips or Menu Recommendations I put Yes on Kid Friendly (it really depends on how old your kids are and how well behaved, for most I would say it's okay - use your own discretion)
They also have some vegetarian dishes.
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Epinions.com ID:
paulchua
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Member: Paul Chua
Location: Sunnyvale, California
Reviews written: 4
Trusted by: 2 members
About Me:
Check out my website to learn everything about me! www.PaulChua.com
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