Toujours Fish & Meat

It’s almost like a misplaced slice of white tablecloth hip food heaven. Upon entering, greeted right away by a very peppy staff member. You’d think this wasn’t NL (already on a good track for customer service). At first it seems that there is nobody inside, and then you are taken to the back… WHOAH! Big, spacious, modern and fashionable, lots of «hipster» knicknacks that give the place a charm of je né sais quois (and I like it). The menu took a bit longer than I’m sure is normal to be delivered, but seems like there is one main drink/​food server and the other «waiters» (with barbershop flair) are running. Interesting concept, gives a personal touch, but if it’s efficient, I’m not sure. *edit* there is more than one, the dead hook seems to be the raised area near the kitchen, however not a big deal, it’s full and many restaurants have this. The menu is LARGE for a restaurant of this type, possibly why they offer a 3 course 29,95 pick anything menu. There is quality here, as is evidenced by the smells from the kitchen and description of each item in question. Confusing to me was the «supplement» on some items, when upon asking made sense. Since «luxury» items (ie: scallops, steaks, etc) cost more, there is a 2 – 5 € supplement on some items with the 3 course. Fine by me, it’s still a deal! I just wish that there were more «glass» options than one red (I like Syrah more than cab). There is an extensive modern drink menu to boot as well, from standard wells to master creations and boutique GTs. I ordered the scallops (coquille), and entrecôte as starter and main. While I understood, the concept, the freshly cooked scallops resting on a cold slice of fine watermelon made them cold rather quickly. The only real taste emanating from them was a burnt (not sear) edge and no real texture. Presentation was however top notch. NOTE: at this point ive been here an hour and a half almost and already through only the first course, not sure when the second is coming. As i finish this sentence. Sure enough. Now, on first glance all is well, however the first bite into each item on the entrecôte plate reveals it has sat too long in the window, it’s lukewarm at best, and the meat itself has begun to toughen (as well as was not asked how the steak should be cooked). Shame. I of course ate all due to hunger, but it was a clear indicator to me that there needs to be better communication in this noisy environment to the staff-​kitchen-​window. Easily remedied in the future, as the staff although friendly and well mannered seem to be running with no real order at the moment, could this be layout issue, or a noise communication issue? Not quite sure. Again easily remedied. Stads were very attentive to my comment, and glad I enjoyed it anyways. Next the cheesecake: 99,9% perfection! I would personally liked to see a SLIGHTLY thicker crust (American here after all). But creamy, firm, yet easily cut with a spoon or fork, and with vanilla bean (real) ice cream.
All in all, everyone has an off day, and it wasn’t actually off! Everything was tasty, and well thought out, timing is everything however, but easily remedied. Keep up the good work, work hard! Definitely worth another visit and my HIGHLY RECOMMENDED seal of approval!!!