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The Arbour
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
The Arbour
8.8
Upscale farm-to-table dining showcasing California's agricultural bounty with rustic elegance. The kitchen delivers expertly executed seasonal dishes like Mediterranean sea bass and duck, while the intimate fireplace setting creates romance.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mediterranean Sea Bass, Duck Confit, Truffle Crusted Chicken
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 8.9
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Farm-to-table philosophy with sustainable local sourcing
Who should go: Couples and business diners seeking sophistication
When to visit: Dinner service for romantic fireplace seating
What to order: Sea bass, duck, seasonal vegetables
Insider tip: Free parking behind building on Hudson
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free parking lot behind building on Hudson Ave, valet available Friday-Saturday evenings for $15
Dress code: Smart casual to business casual - think nice jeans with a blazer or dress pants, no athletic wear
Noise level: Moderate - intimate enough for date conversation, livelier on weekends
Weekend wait: 60-90 min without reservation, book 2 weeks ahead for prime slots
Weekday lunch: Usually seated immediately, 10-15 min during business lunch rush
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - rotating seasonal vegetarian entrees plus creative sides that work as mains
Vegan options: Limited - 1-2 modified entrees, but chef accommodates with advance notice
Gluten-free options: Yes - marked menu items, knowledgeable staff, dedicated prep protocols
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Perfect - the fireplace seating creates intimacy without being too formal, lighting is flattering, and the $$$$ pricing shows effort without breaking the bank
Can I get a table without a reservation? Bar seating usually available for walk-ins, but dining room books up 1-2 weeks out for weekends. Try Tuesday-Thursday or arrive right at 5pm opening
Is it kid-friendly? Better for ages 10+ who appreciate quality food. No kids menu, but kitchen will do simple preparations. The refined atmosphere works best for well-behaved children
Best For
Better for: Superior to other South Lake spots for special occasions - more polished service than casual bistros, better value than ultra-luxury options, and that fireplace ambiance is unmatched locally
Skip if: Choose Union or Magnolia Park Social Club instead if you want a livelier scene, need extensive vegan options, or prefer under $30 per person dining
The Arbour
8.1
Farm-to-table focused New American restaurant sourcing fresh organic meats with housemade specialties and dynamic seasonal flavors. The upscale bar and dining room offers rotating happy hour menus alongside standout burgers and garlic fries.
Must-Try Dishes:
Florentine-Style T-Bone Steak, Burgers, Garlic Fries
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.9
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Sustainable sourcing with organic meats and rotating happy hour
Who should go: Food-conscious diners, happy hour crowd, romantic dates
When to visit: Happy hour for value, dinner for full experience
What to order: T-bone steak, burgers, black and white ravioli
Insider tip: Happy hour has fantastic rotating menu with great value
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available but competitive during peak hours; nearby paid lot on S Lake Ave ($8-12). Valet not offered.
Dress code: Upscale casual - dark jeans and nice tops work, but most diners lean dressy. Skip athleisure.
Noise level: Moderate during dinner, lively during happy hour - you can hold conversation but expect ambient buzz
Weekend wait: 45-75 min without reservation Friday-Saturday after 7pm; book ahead strongly recommended
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait, usually seated within 10 minutes
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - 4-5 options including the black and white ravioli and seasonal vegetable plates
Vegan options: Limited - 2 adaptable dishes, but kitchen accommodates with advance notice
Gluten-free options: Yes - several mains available GF including steaks; kitchen aware of cross-contamination
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice - upscale atmosphere without being stuffy, moderate noise level allows conversation, and the $$$$ price signals effort without breaking the bank. Happy hour is a smart move for lower-stakes early dates.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunch or early dinner (before 6pm) you'll likely get seated. Weekend dinners are risky - expect 45+ min waits or rejection. Happy hour has bar seating that's first-come, first-served.
Is it kid-friendly? Better for older kids (10+) who can appreciate the experience. No kids menu, upscale vibe may feel constraining for young children. The burger is kid-approved though.
Best For
Better for: The Arbour wins on sustainable sourcing commitment and happy hour value. Choose this over generic upscale American spots when ingredient quality and farm-to-table ethics matter to you, or when you want sophisticated food without the stuffiness.
Skip if: You want adventurous cuisine (menu plays it safe), need extensive vegan options, or are looking for a quiet intimate setting. Also skip if budget is tight outside happy hour - $$$$ adds up quickly at dinner.