Restaurant: Mr. Chow's Miami

Chinese

There's a certain level of expectation that comes with dining at restaurant with a high price point. We all know that the price point is not just for the food, but also for the service and ambiance. To pay a lot of money and feel disappointed is a slap in the face.

While visiting my friends in Miami we decided to head to The W for a drink. On out way we realized we didn't have a real meal all day and decided to go to Mr. Chow's, which is downstairs in The W, totally unplanned. Had I known, I would've checked the Yelp reviews since I am an active Yelper. If majority of my fellow Yelper says it's not up to par, then it usually isn't.

Ambiance & Service

Upon entry we were not acknowledged immediately. Everyone was acting busy as if they did not see us. *noted*. The decor and ambiance was classy and poised. We were finally greeted and opted to sit outside. Our waiter was nice, but not attentive. Even though you'd expect Miami to basically be summer all year around, it was very breezy this March night. The waiter gave us table cloth to keep warm. That was very thoughtful.

Price & Food

Our appetizers came out then our entrees. For appetizer we order the glazed prawns with walnuts (the best tasting food of the night), Mr. Chow's spareribs, and dumplings. The prawns and dumplings were good, the spareribs were a dry rub and tasted very dry sadly. Was not a fan at all. For our entrees we ordered steamed sea bass ($47), Beijing Chicken ($36), and crispy beef ($42). We ordered a side of shrimp fried rice and string beans. The serving sizes were high way ROBBERY (see the pics below and let me know your thoughts) and the presentation was no better than how I prepare my own plates. There's just not way they could think their prices are justifiable. The saddest portions I have ever seen in my entire life! The sea bass was so bland, the beef was not tender and the chicken was decent. The string beans were disgustingly overcooked, the fried was taste-less.

First and foremost I keep reminding myself this was not planned, because I would never premeditate going to an "upscale" Chinese restaurant. I love my local takeout, so how much better can I get it. I do not put a price on food, but it must be completely worth it. Honestly, you can have a much better food experience at your favorite take out. Three times the size, a third of the price, and highly satisfying. I was very disappointed. For an expensive restaurant where you would show up dressed nicely, and fork over hundreds of dollars it did not live up to what they portray. The entire experience I received was below average. I would not return at all, at least not this location.