Thursday, September 2, 2010

Fraiche

Fraiche - Rustic French and Italian
312 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, CA 90401
(310) 451-.7482

VALUE - 7
As for fine dining, this place isn't super-expensive but still is on the pricey side.

TASTE - 6
I was terribly disappointed in how unimpressive the dishes were, especially for this price point.
I went there for dinner and ordered the Steak Frites. For anyone who knows me, they know that I have no problems polishing off a plate of red meat. I could not finish this meal. This dish introduced me to the ugly side of how unflavorful, poorly-prepared French cuisine could be. I absolutely was left wanting more. That "more" was "taste."

PRESENTATION - 7
Their presentation was one of the more redeeming qualities of this establishment, yet again, nothing out of the ordinary. I really thought that their presentation ability would at least mask the taste mediocrity.

AMBIANCE - 8
This was their highest mark. Walking distance from the beach, the location was paramount. The decor was welcoming and the lighting was conducive to intimate conversation.

SERVICE - 4
On the other hand, their service received their poorest marks. Our waiter forgot one of the orders, never suggested any wine pairings with our dishes, and asked me why i didn't like the food because I was eating too slowly. If it weren't for my friend's birthday, I would said something for sure.

WOULD I RETURN? - 5
Eh...50/50. I would come back for the ambiance and company, but not for the crappy service nor food.

SOCIAL INTERACTION - 8
The crowd was chill and laid-back, typical of beach community restaurants, not at all snooty. Guests were hip, sophisticated and understated.

OVERALL RATING - 6.27
This experience left me yearning for a taste of properly seasoned, original French and Italian cuisine. I haven't fully given up on the idea of returning to this place, but it wouldn't be any time soon. I didn't have an especially terrible time, but I wasn't impressed either. If I were to summarize the overall experience with one word, it would be "blah."