Christopher Storm

Review of Seven Bridges Grille & Brewery

I was told this restaurant was one of the best aro...

I was told this restaurant was one of the best around the Jacksonville area. As someone who worked at numerous bar establishments in my younger days, I can attest to the rigors of such environments. Seven Bridges delivered a first impression which was quite lacking overall.

The ambiance is pleasant enough. Exposed, weathered brick walls, open mechanical systems, and a glass-enclosed room which shows off their home brewing equipment all make for a rustic, yet comfortable mood. Couple this with the unique wall decor, deep wood bar and large, open floor plan, and it makes for a nice enough dining backdrop.

My issues lye with the poor ordering experience. I began with a margarita to wet the palette. It was well poured, had a pleasantly balanced kick, smoothed out nicely with a subtle sweetness. The bartender knew what he was doing. Too bad it costs 9 bucks for a standard sized glass. I could get a fishbowl margarita for that price elsewhere. Poured just as generously.

We ordered the chicken nachos and our main courses. They all were brought out at the same time.. The nachos were cold. When I (politely) complained about it, they said they would remake them and bring our food to us fresh and spaced out in a timely manner as it should have been in the first place.

The nachos were brought out. They were singed around the edges to a black and brown crisp. They were obviously thrown in the oven and re-served to us. It is a colorful appetizer, yet the poor decision-making left me in bad mood. The entrees were quite tasty. They may have been reheated, but still were quite delicious in taste and texture.

The eating portion of our dining only experience should have been far more enjoyable and taken far less time. I am no fan of being at a restaurant for over two hours well before a dinner rush. (We arrived at Seven Bridges around 5:30 on a Friday evening) They had ample seating and the bar was moderately busy at best. Simply put, zero thought was put into the most vital system of a restaurant. Value, quality, and timing.

They ate the cost of the nachos and we overpaid for a sub-par meal and sitting around waiting for the displeasure of paying for it. Prices are too high and the cooks are lazy. Hey, at least the bartender knows how to make a drink.

The unique appearance and the bar are the only reason I give this place two stars. The menu choices seem great. If they could send them out after the appetizer, that would be a start. They either need to lower the prices or be more aware of food that has been cooked and ready to be served . I am not afraid to pay for quality. But that quality must be present in order for me to feel comfortable doing so.

-Chris Storm Reviews