A dear friend, Donald J. Sowa, of the Sowa Financial Group, comes into town for a few rounds of golf and we head to Old Hickory Steakhouse and the Hotel for the evening. Nice spot to bring out of towners and there is a restaurant for every palate and budget. Earlier, I had made reservations at the Old Hickory Steakhouse as I was often told its steaks are second to none. Being a huge fan of Mortons and The Palm, I had my doubts, but, as they say, nothing ventured, nothing gained. We settled into The Library Lounge, as the bar is known, for a couple of drinks before dinner. The Library offers a rich ambiance and overstuffed leather chairs in a spectacular environment---floor to ceiling hardwood, deep carpet and true Southern warmth. I order a beer and my friend a mixed drink which, after too long of a wait, arrive. The beer (a domestic) is at room temperature and not a degree colder. After 10 minutes of trying to find our server and getting annoyed, "Mike" arrives and I voice my complaint. He listens attentively and then informs me that such is not possible as "it was in the cooler all day." Fuming now, I simply tell the kid to pick up the bottle and he can decide for himself if they need a new cooler, but I would like a cold beer in the meantime. 10 minutes later a cold beer arrives. So far not so good. Dealing with this careless, arrogant neophyte I didn't anticipate a great dinner, but I was very, very impressed with Anthony, our waiter, and the food. Anthony made a recommendation for the 22 oz bone in ribeye. We went with the spinach made with Marscipone and garlic truffle Mac and Cheese as sides. Magificent. Simply and thoroughly magnificent and that is the only word I can use.
Spectacular steaks; great service and a wonderful atmosphere. Except for the self absorbed, childish and apparently not too bright cocktail server, I would give this restaurant as many stars as allowed by law.
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