Fun and Energetic Hamburger Dining. Having become more of a foodie recently and dining around northeastern Ohio, I began my odyssey by printing out a list of the better-known and well-reviewed places, to visit chronologically. Simple as the method is, this is how I came to plan B Spot for my next destination. Imagine my surprise to later discover that its owner is none other than Chef Michael Symon, who is regularly featured on my favorite television channel. So I had, needless to say, higher expectations for the visit.
My first impression walking through the doors of the Strongsville location were of its space and lighting: somewhat on the smaller side and darker than I was expecting, with tables and outlying booths arranged around a central bar toward the back. After being shown to my seat and becoming more situated, I gained a better sense of my surroundings, and could not help but to more clearly notice its fun, playful sense of style, and very snappy décor.
Hostess and server were both outgoing and helpful, offering plenty of smiles and interactions. Even the nice person who bussed my table seemed genuinely cheerful, enjoying what she was doing and interacting. The restaurant was filled with customers, and the atmosphere seemed to be hopping: very positive and energetic.
As mentioned before, seating seemed close and intimate, yet not suffocatingly so. I personally prefer just a little more space while dining. At one point, I had to pull my knapsack closer, to give more room to a nice couple who proceeded to sit very near to me, and offered plenty of looks in my direction, seemingly interested in striking up some kind conversation, which I did not feel particularly comfortable doing at that time. I understand, however, that for others who like to socialize while dining, this would not necessarily be an undesired thing.
All the menu items I ordered met my expectations for Iron Chef style food decently enough: very well prepared, and for the most part flavorful. In my opinion, the Chicken Romaine Salad could have used a tad more dressing, but otherwise was hearty. The Lizzy Burger was very delicious; likewise, the Chocolate Marshmallow Banana Bad**s Shake, which I chose for kind of a dessert. But nothing was overly wowing to me. Perhaps this is due to the fact I am so familiar with hamburger-style food, having grown up enjoying it both at home and in ordering out.
I have to admit, the toppings bar was really cool, with an assortment of grilled and pickled condiments I had never seen before. The new-to-me options I tried, like the grilled green tomatoes, were brightly acidic and flavorful.
On to a couple other disappointments I had with my visit. Being a dessert lover at heart, my favorite item of the meal, it was a letdown to discover no options besides the selection of milkshakes. The Chocolate Banana was very good; yet I would have liked to finish the meal with a more dedicated dessert; and it would have been exciting to see what a Michael Symon choice would taste like.
Also, the prices seemed very steep to me. I am not parsimonious when it comes to compensation for a good meal - but these are hamburgers, milkshakes and related offerings. It just felt to me that the prices were more indicative of the particular experience being offered, more so than the actual level and quality of food.
Perhaps, not being not as much a fan of his television food style as I am other Food Network stars, I came with a more heightened sense of expectation and criticism than appropriate - yet, all in all, despite these concerns, I was still very impressed, and would certainly recommend this as an option for anyone who craves nicely prepared hamburger-style food.
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