Dave and Buster's, Maple Grove - June 15, 2007

Her perspective: A

Note to self: don't use Google maps; it led us to a spot in a residential area about 5 miles away from the restaurant.

Walking into the restaurant, there was a doorman - not a host - a doorman (probably a bouncer, too). We were seated immediately quite close to a mirror that was so clean and well installed, I wouldn't have known it was a mirror but for the fact that I could see myself. We noticed that there was a private area that could be closed off for a party of up to 31. As we were waiting to be greeted, we also noticed that all the ceiling fans were connected and using a single motor. It is a fun, festive atmosphere, and they use actual linens on the tables! Price range is comparable to TGIFriday's or Olive Garden. They have American style cuisine with, what appears to be, their signature barbecue sauce made with Jack Daniels. They have a good selection of appetizers as well as steaks, chicken, seafood, entree salads, burgers and sandwiches. In the center, between the restaurant and the games area is a full bar including most of the usual brands of wine you would see at most chain family dining restaurants.

Our server was Lisa, a fun, friendly person who took great care of us. We never wanted for anything. We both ordered drinks, which were both quite strong, yet tasty. Our appetizers were Tempura Fried Mushrooms with ranch and Queso with chips. Portion sizes are huge, so you're going to want to share. For those of us that like ranch, you'll want to request extra ranch with the mushrooms. However, the batter has a seasoning that's really good, so you don't even need the dip, if you don't want.

There is an insert in the menu advertising a meal/game card package. You pick from any entree on that insert, and get a game card with a certain amount of money on it, for a discounted price. Be advised, though, these specials end at 5:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

I ordered the Teriyaki Sirloin Steak for my entree, which is sliced and served with loaded mashed potatoes and onion frizzles. The meat is marinated, then they put more sauce over the top. It's a little overpowering the first couple of bites, but it really brings out a good flavor in the steak. Quite a lot of food, so good value!

After dinner, I had a dessert martini with Starbuck's liqueur, Godiva liqueur and whipped cream, drizzled with chocolate sauce. Very tasty, but a bit too much whipped cream... Next time, I will have a hard time deciding between the Bananas Foster Pie and the Belgian Chocolate Fondue.

Once we paid the check, we went over to the games area and purchased 2 game cards. You can do this at several kiosks around the game area. There is also a computer where you can register your card to get special offers and coupons e-mailed to you. You can swipe your card at any game, and, if you have enough money on the card for one credit, it will be deducted from your card. Depending on how well you play your game, you get a certain amount of tickets that you can redeem at their commissary for prizes. There are quite a lot of games geared towards younger kids, but there are enough adult type games to keep you entertained for a while. There are also pool tables and cocktail servers wandering around. At one point, I happened to forget my card on the console of one of the games and when I came back, it was gone. We went to talk to a manager to see if there was anything we could do. Since we had gotten our cards at the same time, the card number was sequential and the manager was able to transfer my balance to another card.

Needless to say, we were so impressed by the level of service that we received at Dave and Buster's, that we asked to talk to a manager on the way out. Jeff came out quickly, and I recounted our visit to him and let him know how much we appreciated getting excellent service, especially since we eat out so much. He detracted a bit from our visit by commenting that it doesn't always go like that, but I informed him of my background in restaurants and told him that I was very impressed.

Very highly recommended! We will definitely be back and would recommend this place to anyone. It has something for everyone!