Houlihan's

This place has good food and I like the service as well. tasty food even though its a chain.

Went here tonight to celebrate my birthday.  I really like Houlihan's, hubby doesn't like it as much as I do.  I like the varied drink menu, the service is always good, and the food is excellent.  I again got my usual Steak and Wedge Salad and Cream Brulee for dessert.  I am a creature of habit and Houlihan's has this wonderful salad and desert that I really like.  No complaints on the food, no complaints on the service, and I will be going back.  I just like this place for a nice dinner out in a trendy environment that makes me feel young.

It was Hubby's Birthday and we were looking for someplace that we haven't visited before to get a little more upscale meal.  It's been quite a few years since we went to a Houlihan's and we decided to check out the one in Lee's Summit.

For 4:35 in the afternoon the parking lot seemed pretty full until we reminded ourselves it's Friday and probably happy hour.  Then it all made sense.  At Houlihan's on Friday after work in Lee's Summit people are more than ready to 'un-wind' and that was definitely happening inside.  The noise level was way-way up and stayed that way for our whole meal.

I ordered Seared Georges Bank Scallops, lemon-asparagus risotto, baby radish greens and a basil-infused olive oil.  It was a nicely executed dish and an interesting combination of textures and flavors.  I've never had Georges Bank scallops before so I have no idea whether these are how they generally are, but my observation is that they were extremely mildly flavored (not much flavor) and had a very soft mouth-feel.  Certainly not much like the wonderful scallops I have eaten in the past. (I am generally very fond of scallops)  And I would say that I don't much care whether I ever have them again.  But that  really isn't necessarily the fault of the restaurant or of the Chef.  It may have been just a matter of my personal preference.    

Hubby ordered Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo pasta with fontina, provolone and romano cheeses in a rich and creamy sauce.  He commented that the serving of grilled chicken was very generous and moist and flavorful.

Our service was just okay but not especially attentive and, as I have already mentioned, the noise level was an issue through out the meal.  So, all in all, I can only give Houlihan's just under three stars and won't probably go back when there are so many other places in the Kansas City area that suit my personal tastes better.