SHADE-O-METER RATING
4 OUTTA 5 WERKS: “SHE GAVE GOOD FACE – SHE SERVED IT”
What is Palate Party? It’s the restaurant that’s in Rumors Bar & Grill. The restaurant is overseen by celebrity chef Robyn Almodovar. Was there an age restriction? I don’t believe so. How was the maître d’? There isn’t one. You seat yourself. What was the décor like? The industrial-inspired décor is reminiscent of Almodovar’s famous South Florida food truck. What was the seating like? It’s all outside. There are pub tables and regular tables. What was the atmosphere like? The “atmosphere” was essentially nonexistent since it was the Tuesday before Hurricane Irene. No one was around. Was it cruisy? No cruising. Everyone was too busy preparing for the upcoming “festivities.” When is happy hour? 2-4-1 from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., Monday through Sunday.
What drinks were ordered? Cucumber martinis ($10.50 each), which is one the venue’s specialties. Where the drinks served timely? Yes. How were they? The cucumber reduction was done to-order. Although the drink was not quite in the caliber of a cocktail that one might encounter, for example, at a premiere cocktail lounge, it was definitely a step up from your average shake-and-pour dive-bar martini. What was on the menu? There’s a brunch menu, a main menu, and a late-night one. We ordered from the main menu. What was ordered? Bacon-wrapped dates ($9), BBQ short-rib grilled cheese ($15), and a “piggy mac” mac & cheese appetizer ($10).
Was the food served timely? Yes. How was it? The standout was probably the bacon-wrapped dates. The slight contradictions of the Applewood smoked bacon, goat cheese, balsamic glaze and the dates naughtily tease the palate in the correct manner. However, the other food was not quite as exemplary. The pasta in the mac & cheese was cooked correctly, but the dish could have been a touch creamier. Interestingly, the short-rib grilled cheese had lemon aioli in it, but the sauce was overshadowed by the cheese. The bread was of good quality. The French fries were fresh-cut and excellent. Hot and crispy, and with the perfect amount of salt.
How was the service? Excellent and friendly. What stands out about the place? No one ever said that bar food has to live down to its reputation. Based on the ambition and quality of the dishes at this restaurant, it’s obvious that this philosophy is in practice here. What could be improved? The consistency of the food. What was surprising? The attention-to-detail from the wait staff. I was asked if I needed a new fork for the entre (keep in mind that this is a bar restaurant).
Palate Party is located at 2426 Wilton Drive, in Wilton Manors, Florida. It’s open from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. Sunday through Thursday, and from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
