Renault W - EGG HARBOR CITY

I booked brunch for 20 people a couple months in advance. I received a call the week before that they were no longer serving brunch. I was not happy since it was an after holiday party and I wanted it to be something special. They spoke to the chef who kindly said he’d still set up the brunch buffet for us. We were so impressed for $21.95pp to get an omelette and pancake station, eggs, bacon, potatoes, sausage, 2 hot dishes, carved roast beef, salad bar, desserts etc and bottomless mimosas. The service was alittle slow with drink refills but the brunch was amazing and we didn’t feel rushed.

Had been here before and had a great time, so decided to come back last night with friends. Very disappointed with our visit. Place was empty, but not surprising because it's in the middle of nowhere and it's mid December. Menu changed from last time and not as many interesting items as before, especially the short rib mac cheese. There was only one server for the three or 4 tables and he was not very good. Didn't offer any specials until we asked, didn't pay attention to how we ordered things and never stopped by to see how things were or to ask if we wanted refills. Food was OK. Salmon Tacos and the Truffle Champignon were good. My wife's prime rib was overcooked and dry. My buddy I both ordered the Rib Eye and his was under cooked and mine was overcooked. And no, it wasn't that the plates were reversed, he didn't want onions and I did, so they just cooked them wrong. His wife did like her Shrimp Crab Risotto though. Overall, much worse than last time and we won't be back. Not worth the 40 minute drive.

When we arrived, they couldn't find our reservation (luckily we had the email confirmation). They did seat us in a booth (all the other guests were at tables, with no one else in booths, so it was evident our reservation got lost). It took a while to get service (we almost opted to leave when someone finally came)...drink order was wrong, then no offers to refill drinks. Everyone was nice, and the food was average...the whole experience was not the holiday celebration we hoped to have that night.

The Appetizer, salad, bread, and service very average. The dinner entrees the four of us ordered were delicious. We were pleasantly surprised! The restaurant was empty, it was a rainy cool evening. The renovation the winery is going through could be why it was not crowded. The waitress did not show us the winery wines. After my review, we were invited back by the owner to return after the renovation. This generous offer was accepted and we will return after the renovation.

Ok, so the place is a little dated, but the food was good, the service was good and the wine was really nice. Once the place gets updated (in the process) it will be a nice little hidden gem. I give the owners some kudos for trying to update the place because is certainly is a diamond in the rough.. Good luck and we'll be watching for the updates and try back again soon.