The Grande

We showed up on a Wednesday night at 8 (for some odd reason they open only from Wednesday on from 8pm until 1am) and they claimed they weren't able to serve food because the chef wasn't there. What kind of an establishment is this? We had a groupon that we couldn't use so we contacted groupon to return it. Would not recommend.

I walked by the Grande shortly after they opened and was immediately impressed by the decor. Therefore, when I saw a movie premier event they were hosting, I thought this would be a great chance to check it out with my girlfriends. The event didn't start on time and the cocktails were super expensive. I found it to be just another stuffy overpriced bar/lounge on Atwells. I was really hoping it would be something more and given the terrible service reviews I read, I am not sure I would dine there. However, I usually like to give a place the benefit of the doubt and try it for a second time.

I've only been here for drinks on a weekend night. The decor is nice, they have done a great remodel. I definitely would like to come here to try their cuisine.

I have had 3 drinks here and none of them were favorable. With a short list of specialty cocktails, maybe they should change it up a bit.

I'm not sure how I feel about it's bar identity. It's REALLY loud, so don't go here if you want to have a conversation with anyone. I think they would be better off having the bar in the middle so people can stand around it instead of everyone standing around the existing bar to the left while the rest sit awkwardly to the right at dining tables that are half empty. If it's going to be a bar, then just be one. If it's going to be a restaurant, be one. The mix is awkward due to the layout.

Also, there is an extensive list for bottle service. I am not sure anyone wants to have bottle service at this place. There is no dancing, and everyone has their back to the tables since they are pushing their way to the bar. Maybe bottle service works in the summertime when they can open the windows/doors to the sidewalk and customers can people watch. Maybe if they could obtain a license for entertainment they could have some dancing?

I wish this place well and hope they will figure out the right mix. I'll check it out for dinner soon and post again.