STANFORD'S RESTAURANT and BAR

We were alerted by a hot tip from an acquaintance that Stanford's Restaurant and Bar was a dining destination worth checking out. It was our anniversary/birthday celebration and this sounded like a plan. I am not sure why we have not visited Sanford's at an earlier time because this has been around for over 20 years. This is a chain restaurant and we are at the Walnut Creek venue. Parking Karma was present because we parked right across the street in a metered spot. Parking is a mixed bag in Walnut Creek. The Stanford's parking lot is closed for construction. There are a handful of metered spots and there is a huge parking garage near by with a less than 10 minute walk. 

It is a Wednesday evening and Sanford's is not very crowded. We are greeted by a highly bubbly hostess and assistant. They are high energy which was a theme with the staff. The interior is dark but inviting with lots of polished wood and high back booths. It has a chain like old school vibe. Our waiter arrives and gives a perfect polished rendition of good service. He was friendly and seemed genuinely  appreciative of our celebration. The menu was a mixed bag of American comfort food. Ms. Goofy, fish & chips, crab cake appetizer and I; rib eye steak were our menu choices.

The crab cakes arrived piping hot off of the griddle. They were full of crab and made for a nice appetizer. We were also brought Stanford's famous cheesy bread. This was melted cheese on a focaccia style bread. It was fine possibly on the oily side from the melted cheese. It got us ready for the next course of a house salad and a soup. The salad and soup were presented in a picturesque plating which means a lot in any meal. We eat with our eyes first. I will spare you the image but they tasted fine.

The entree's arrived and they too were picturesque. We both enjoyed our offerings. Now some of you may have gathered that I really like a good steak.This steak was good. Was it a memorable steak? no. Our meal was not done. A complimentary cream brule was brought to our table with a lighted candle. This is Ms. Goofy's favorite dessert and she attacked it with both paws.

There is a lot to like about Sanford's Restaurant and Bar. The service is top notch. The place is clean and inviting. The food is okay and is presented pleasingly. The food tastes fine. I cannot find any fault with our meal. A good meal is the sum of a few components. service, ambiance,and food quality. They hit on all spots. Will we come back? That is a good question. As you may know I am constantly looking for a great steak. Tonight the steak was only ok.