Johnny M
September 13, 2024
As soon as we get walked through the doors we knew were in for a special kind of dining experience. The uptown ambience was immediate. The decor was modern. There was an air of sleekness to this restaurant. I don’t mind saying that I was a bit intimidated upon entering. However all that was put to rest as soon as we were seated and greeted by our server Desiree. Disarmed of any expectations of pretentiousness, she immediately and naturally put us at ease and assured us that she would be happy to help us navigate our rare journey through this fine dining experience . Encouraged by her enthusiasm and confidence we opened our menus and began asking questions. Desiree expertly and enthusiastically explained and described the dishes for us. As a starter my nephew Seth chose the Cheese and Provisions, a wonderful plate with meats and cheeses that I can’t even pronounce and tastes that I can’t even describe! I chose a soup to start, the Signature Corn & Truffle Soup, a close decision over the Mexican Butter, which I will have next time! Savory and beautifully dished, I was grateful again for our server’s knowledge, it was just as she described! For our entrees Seth chose the Dry Aged New York Prime, cooked to perfection and sliced up on the plate juices flowing, along with the Whipped Potatoes as an enhancement. Intrigued by a dish called Tlacoyo, Desiree again came through and described the dish for me, a sort of Masa topped with chilmole, mushrooms and asadero. Wonderfully plated, the first bite took me back all the way to grandma and her holiday tamale masa! Interestingly, I am a proud carnivore, far from a vegetarian but the dishes that intrigued me and that I ultimately chose were vegetarian and I have (maybe) changed my perspective after this meal! We were so happy we chose this restaurant, the food was different and delicious, the atmosphere was elegant and relaxed, and our server Desiree is nothing but a treasure! One interesting observation was that there were a few people dining alone, and they were enjoying themselves and being treated with the utmost kindness and attention. Very encouraging to see that as I enjoy dining alone as well and appreciate not being made to feel as if the table with 8 people is more important than the one person treating themselves to a nice meal and their own company. Nobody here grouses for gratuity. I highly recommend Taft-Diaz, it is an experience , and I cant wait to try the breakfast and lunch menus as well!