Chateaulin Restaurant

Okay. So, the food is fine. If you're a bigger person, then you may find that portions are a bit on the petite size. Then again, you may be used to that. My biggest problem with Chateaulin is that they include an 18% service charge and that it is not meant as a tip for your server! You are still expected to shell out 15-20% as a tip! A former waitress their told us that the service charge goes to the owner. Can you believe it? What tripe. The pris fixe menus atart at about $35, which is good, but to add service and tip would make it about 33% more ($46.55) per person. Add in the $8-12 cocktails or a bottle of wine ($30-??) and you're into the real money. For my real money, I prefer to eat at a place without hidden charges. Amuse gets my dollars. more

This is my favorite place downtown for special occasions with special people. It is a somewhat small, dark bistro just behind the Shakespeare theaters. The atmosphere is quiet and refined, easily romantic, but also homey. I have often ducked in with a party before a play for soup and salad (rich enough for a meal) and come back again later for midnight creme brulle. The entree list is not extensive, but varies, and each item is carefully planned and executed. The scallops I had last time were the most divine I've had anywhere. I also had a peach martini with a dollop of sherbet from the festive cocktail list, and an almond mousse. more