FYI: Tristate restaurant gift certificates on sale at restaurant.com

[i_eat_a_lot_of_ice_cream]

There are some restrictions, but on restaurant.com, $25 gift certificates can be had to many local restaurants (West/Putnam/Rockland/NJ/CT) for $10, or $10 gift certificates for $3, along with other denominations. Many have a minimum $35 purchase, along with no Fri/Sat nights.

I am eyeing John Michael's up in North Salem, which I know some CHers spoke highly of... they have $100 gift certificates for $40, $75 for $30, and other denominations.

Here's my search from Ossining: http://www.restaurant.com/rdc_site.net/listings.aspx?StateID=&zip=10562

Search also from the main page from your zip, http://www.restaurant.com

[MisterBill2]

Did you ever go to John Michaels?

There is an 80% off code again -- the coupon code is CELEBRATE. Valid through 12./31/08.

[MisterBill2]

First, you need to understand that these are not "gift certificates" but very high value coupons. You cannot eat at these places with just the certificate, you have to pay something above that. The best are a $35 purchase on a $25 coupon, which means a minimum of $10 plus tax and tip. Some are much worse. Make sure you read the terms & conditions before buying. For example, John Michaels requires you to pay cash for the rest of the bill. However, they do not restrict you from using them on Saturday nights.

I've used several of these and have had some pretty good meals. I've used them twice at John Michaels and have one more to use next month. The really good Portugese place in Ossining (Churrasquiera Ribatejo) is on there - they are really cheap to begin with, with this certificate it's amazing. I also have a certificate for the BBQ place in Croton (Memphis Mae's) that I have to use, and for Division Street Grill in Peekskill. I know that neither of those are great but with the discount I'm sure they will be fine.

The other thing you need to know (and I see that Marge also pointed this out) is that you should never pay regular price for these. There are almost always coupons available, and at the moment they have one for 80% (yes eighty percent) off that $25 certificate will only cost you $2, not $10. The code to use (at checkout) is SURPRISE, and it expires Monday 11/24, but may be extended. Also, if you use any shopping referral sites like ebates, you can typically get an extra 15% back.

[gnocchi]

I notice that some of the offers require a "minimum food purchase" and others only state "minimum purchase". Does this mean that at some restaurants beverages may be included to meet the minimum and at others it can be only food?

[MisterBill2]

I believe that is the case but it is often best to ask to be sure.

[MikiLovesSugar]

Barcar in Fleetwood is on here! I would totally get it! But i haven't heard any recent experiences.... how are they doing?

[Marge]

I have used these at several restaurants in the area--Churrasquiera Ribatejo in Ossining, Cafe le Bouchon in Cold Spring (although they don't accept them on weekends now), and the German restaurant in Highland Mills. I bought one, but haven't used it yet, for Grappola Locanda in Chappaqua. Once you sign up, they frequently run specials at another 50 or 60% off, so the $25 coupons cost only $4. I think it's great.

[MisterBill2]

I had lunch at Grappola Locanda with one of these coupons and it was ok. Overpriced even with the $10 off.

[adamclyde]

how was your meal at churrasqueria ribatejo? I had a really sub par meal there, but wondering if I just ordered badly.

[Marge]

We actually went just last night and had the best meal we've had there in some time. We started with the cod cakes, which were crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, not at all oily, and delicious. We had a whole chicken and the gambas a la casa--huge (head on) shrimp in a wonderful garlic sauce. Accompaniaments of rice and beans, homemade potato chips, and broccoli with garlic. We have been going there for years, and although the food is usually very good, they do have some off days. What did you have that was sub-par?

[adamclyde]

I can't remember everything, but the chicken was overcooked, the octopus salad was tastless and rubbery (beyond normal) and everything else seemed really bland. I was there for lunch though and, based on your experience, may have been an anomaly. I should probably give it another try...

[Marge]

If you like octopus salad, the BEST imo, is at Doca's on Main Street in Ossining. The octopus is imported from Portugal, and they mix it with sweet onions, fruity olive oil, red wine vinegar--really good! Getting back on topic though, I would recommend getting a restaurant.com coupon for Churrasquiera Ribatejo and trying it again!

[MisterBill2]

I had some chicken from there a couple of visits ago that are overcooked. And one time the potato chips (fries) were soggy. I went there with some co-workers once and they ordered the octopus and said it was really good (I don't eat it so I can't comment on it).

It's so cheap with the restauant.com certificate that I am willing to overlook it so long as it doesn't happen all the time.

[jfood]

mediterranean grill in wilton ct is on there and jfood likes but the restriction is Sun-Thurs. great deal for mid-week though

[i_eat_a_lot_of_ice_cream]

I've never tried them personally- I read about them on another website, where people cited good experiences with them. Just thought I'd give the heads up in case people were interested in trying.

[debmom]

Have you ever used these certificates?

[Curlz]

I've never bought one, but co-workers use the site religiously for places they like. I'm told they never have a problem @ the restaurants and they get great deals.