The Tomato Palace

User Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

I have only been here one time with my wife, but was pleased with the experience. Our meal came with this garlic/buttery bread that was tied in a knot, and those were really good! I asked for a 2nd helping of those. We each ordered pasta dishes, and the portions were large. I rarely ever see portions this large for pasta, so i was pleased that they didn't seem to skimp on that. The pasta for 1 of the dishes was cooked very well and seasoned well. the 2nd pasta dish was seasoned well, but the pasta was a little overcooked. However, both dishes had good flavor, so I was satisfied. Our waitress was also very nice and attentive.

One thing that really annoyed me about this place was that the bathroom was dirty. A nice place by the lakefront should be clean and tidy, but unfortunately the bathroom was not. I know it has nothing to do with the food, but it is still part of the restaurant.

I would try this place again. Based on some of the reviews, I'm curious if I will get consistent or inconsistent quality meals.

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User Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Excellent Italian Food: Probably one of the best Italian restaurants in our area, outside of Little Italy. This restaurant is owned by the same people that own Clyde's. It's located right on the lake, so if the weather is good you can have a nice walk before (especially if there is a wait) and after dinner. The place is kid friendly, except I would be careful going there on Friday or Saturdays with kids due to long waits.

With your meal comes bread. In addition to the standard Italian bread they serve warm garlic knots that taste great.

The menu is pretty extensive, including brick oven pizza, specialty italian dishes, and standard italian fare. Be careful ordering alcohol, it can be very expensive. Two drinks can cost you more then your entire entree.

The portions are large. My wife and I always have to split the house salad it is so large. If you order a split house salad they will even split it for you before it comes to the table.

We usually go here with my parents and they always order the lasagna and they claim it is the best lasagna they have had anywhere and my wife agrees. My wife ordered the seafood pizza and it was ok, but it was a little on the salty side. I ordered the salmon piccata and it was excellent, the fish was prepared just right. A little to much on the sauce, but otherwise a good meal.

I personally have never had their desserts but my father swears by their tirimisu.

Update 9/4/08 - I don't know what is up with this place. We visit this place on average about once a month. The last few times we have gone there service has stunk. I don't know if there has been a huge turnover in waiters or what, but we have had numerous problems getting our meals, getting the correct meals, and getting the check. The last time I went, the rest of my party left while I waited to pay the bill. I took over 15 minutes to pay the bill. Way too much time when you have two kids to deal with.

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User Rating: 1 out of 5 stars

I can't believe how bad this place is. I went for dinner with two of my girlfriends tonight. The waitress was very nice and friendly, and the restaurant is located in a very beautiful and scenice place - right next to a pond. The real bummer was the food. I ordered a small house salad and a vegetable lasagna. The salad wasn't anything special -- not terrible, not great either. The biggest culprit was the lasagna. It was completely soaked in cheese and grease! When it came out, it literally looked kind a big hunk of Velveeta cheese. It was literally inedible. My friend order the baked ziti and it too was covered in cheese goo. I complained to the manager and he gave me a 20% discount for my "next visit" -- which there will never be.

I am amazed at how this place has any business. Probably the worst Italian food I've had in my life.

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