Napa Rose- very nice dinner/service/dessert

[running pig]

Despite lukewarm reviews on Chowhound, my folks and I had a very nice evening at Napa Rose last night. 2 1/2 hours passed like the blink of an eye, thanks to a pleasant, unassuming environment and attentive but not overbearing service. The dining room was busy yet not "packed", partially because families with small children opted to eat in the lounge area (which allows full-menu dining). The house manager/maitre'd engaged me as I entered the foyer and socialized in a sincere manner with guests throughout the evening. Our waiter was extremely helpful, assisting my folks in choosing their entrees (rabbit) and telling me (primarily a vegetarian) that the chef can make a vegetarian terrine featuring the freshest local vegetables.

I really loved the terrine. A combination of mashed potatoes and roasted tiny potatoes was topped with WONDERFUL fava beans, heirloom tomatoes, sun dried tomatoes, corn and peas. The result was fantastic. My folks enjoyed their rabbit (sorry, can't attest to the quality) and we all devoured the bread basked (especially the crispy bread).

Of course, we saved room for dessert....we shared three. We chose the banana-caramel mascarpone cheesecake, topped with a tiny banana split and caramelized bananas (wonderful), a Scharfenberger flourless cake (good but nothing to jump up and down about), and a pound cake "french toast" with dulce de leche ice cream and Creme Anglaise (the surprise winner).

$150 for 3 people, including 1 glass of wine and a side of hericots verts.

Yummy! I am sorry that other patrons have not enjoyed the experience as much as we did.

[Funwithfood]

I was very cynical, but we went and had a *fantastic meal*. The prix fixe was lackluster, so I created my own from the menu. To my surprise, the waiter brought out each dish on two separate plates (no extra charge). It was the best meal we have had in years. The service was great also.

(I don't like (hate) banquette seating. Fortunately, we were there early enough so we did not have to sit next to someone.)

[russkar]

When there are only two people the best place to sit is at the Kitchen Bar and let Chef Andrew Sutton cook for you. You can order off the menu if you like but watching the food being made makes a big difference.

[Funwithfood]

I've thought of doing that next time, although it's not exactly a "romantic dinner"...but neither is sitting 18 inches from another party. (Did I mention I hate banquettes?)

[russkar]

If you want Romantic, then AMBROSIA (SA) is the place for you. Extraordinary Ambiance.

[russkar]

Napa Rose has never been better. We held a NYE celebration for 20 people last year and everything was very good!
Our other favorite is AMBROSIA , very good with better ambience.

[martyR]

Napa Rose is one of my favorite restaurants right now. I've never anything less than a great experience there.