This past weekend had a very enjoyable, relaxing dinner at Buck’s.
First, the room was as attractive as always when we entered. The only table available in the front room was adjacent to the restroom (good point: they were jammed; bad point: we didn’t want that table). Buck immediately agreed to find us another table, and we were happily seated in the back room (farther from the pianist, but comfortable and attractive).
We got off to a great start with drinks. I had a Calvados, it was reasonably priced, and served in a warmed snifter! One in our party asked for a Dubonnet, and instead of the Louisville standard response of “what is that?” she was asked “would you like red or white?” Very impressive.
The salads were good. While nothing to rave about, the bacon/croutons/fried onions gave the fresh lettuce an additional satisfying crunch.
Main dishes were uniformly good. Our friends’ Black and Blue strip (medium-well – can’t account for taste - but still tasty, tender, and juicy) and bourbon pecan chicken were both outstanding, and large enough for both to take home leftovers. My wife’s mixed seafood Caribbean was the lighter, tasty entrée she was looking for, and I ordered the old standard crispy fish with hot sweet chili which never fails to please.
While I do agree with some critics that Buck’s is not known for “cutting edge” food, the relaxing atmosphere, perfectly cooked dishes, a broad menu (strange mix of Southern and Thai!), and attentive front-of-house staff combined to a meal well worth the price! Speaking of price, before tip it was $91 for two top-brand drinks, two salads, and two seafood entrees (@ $22 and $25), and one dessert (a mocha dacquoise that was shared by all). We felt that - especially given the atmosphere, live entertainment, et al – it was worth the money.
I was also happy to see that they had what appeared to be a full turn on tables.
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