"Al’s is what other fine dining and steak houses try to be I saw a post earlier this year on the Lost Tables Facebook group. I had only been to Al’s once (in 2010) and was surprised that it was still open… and although I forgot the guy I went to Al’s with in 2010, I remembered the decadent atmosphere, excellent service, delicious steak and slow meal. Al’s symbolizes everything that I want in my 40th decade: authenticness, a better socioeconomic situation, and understated originality. I called two weeks ahead and made reservations for my birthday feast. My experience couldn’t have been better. The hostess was exceptional and kind to my group of 8 very ethnically and socioeconomically diverse friends, at least 2 whom have never experienced fine dining. Everyone felt welcomed and comfortable (I had told them to dress up, so everyone was dressed appropriately for a place like this). We split a few appetizers across the table. Delicious and everyone was able to have about 2-3 pieces of everything. The main courses were presented from a rolling cart and this was one of the most remarkably awesome parts of our meal. What place truly does not have a printed menu? The presentation was mouthwatering and made you want to eat everything on the menu. Al’s house salad came with all the entrees, and it was perfect. There as a sorbet aperitif between the salad course and entrees, which completely amused my friends. I ordered the 8 ounce filet mignon, and was reminded of why I remembered the food but not the guy from 2010. It practically melted in my mouth and I could have cut it with a butter knife. It did not need sauce of any kind. My side was the Al's potatoes, which I probably wouldn't order again only because I had it confused with another style of potatoes (they were delicious for what they were). Other friends ordered the salmon, pasta, and stuffed filet and the sides are big enough to share. I was told the salmon was moist but cooked and seasoned to perfection. The portions were large enough that almost everyone had to-go boxes. For dessert everyone ordered something different and nobody shared. I was told it was all delicious! Perfectly portioned and the perfect ending (and regrettably meals like this must end). The only thing incongruent about our experience at Al’s was the weird playlist. It went from country to show tunes to 80s soft rock… it was very confusing and the one detail that was overlooked. I think that others have previously remarked about this. It was pretty odd and would have set a better mood if they had played soft instrumental holiday music, classical, jazz, or even 1920s-1940s pop songs. Most important, the volume of the music was spot on, and acoustics and table spacing in the room were so that we could all hear each other and not overhear other guests at other tables. Serving and waitstaff was perfect: there when you needed them and not intruding when you didn’t. From appetizer to dessert, our meal ended up taking about 3 hours. For all 9 of us, all very light drinkers, with maybe 1/2 an appetizer portion each, it ended up being just less than 1000 including a very generous tip to our gracious waitress. I would budget at least 100 per person including tip, but 200 per person would be more comfortable. Along with my wonderful friends, Al’s helped me have the best 40th birthday party that I could have imagined. It is the most memorable fine dining experience, perfect place to spoil my friends who have never previously experienced “fine dining”, and perfect for special occasions. I only hope that they’re around another 96 years and that I have the chance to return sooner than 9 years from now (and I will *definitely* remember all the friends I spent this occasion with)! (Photos by my dear friend, Florence Flick, PhD)"
Cannelloni
