Restaurant Review: 36 Club

Friday evening J, Mikey, Steph, Jesse, Tim, Walker, and I went out to dinner at the 36 Club in Fayetteville for my birthday. And it was pretty much the most fabulous dining experience of my ENTIRE LIFE. I mean, I have eaten at some really enjoyable places, but this totally made it.

We arrived promptly and were seated. Our waiter popped by to provide menus and a wine list. When the rest of the party arrived, we ordered our drinks. They have a REALLY great bourbon selection including both Booker's and Blanton's, two of my favorites. Also a lovely wine selection and several champagnes by the glass. Two thumbs up. Drinks arrived with a basket of yummy bread.

Appetizers soon followed. J and I shared the crabcake and Jesse had mussels. The crabcake was huge, with very little breading/filler and plenty of perfectly cooked crab. It was served with a light remoulade on the side. All around, quite satisfying. Jesse's mussels were really nicely flavored, and also a massive serving. Like, enough mussels to make a meal out of. I think everybody at the table ended up eating some of them.

Now, we must all take a deep breath, and prepare to discuss the Best Steak I Have Ever Eaten. The New York Strip (probably 12-ounce? It was a good size) arrived, cooked a perfect medium rare. It was so tender it just melted in my mouth and I barely even had to chew it. Even better? It was topped with a mound of caramelized onions, bleu cheese....and BACON. What could be more wonderful? Nothing, that's what. It also came with a side of nicely garlicked mashed potatoes. I was unable to finish it, which was the only disappointing thing about the meal.

Mikey, J, and Jesse all had the grouper special, which was also delicious. Nicely flaky fish, a light lemon/butter sauce, and capers also served with the mashed potatoes. Tim had a pasta with smoked salmon, and Walker had some sort of salad, but I didn't eat any of their food, so I won't pass judgment on it.

Overall, I have to give the experience 4 stars. The server was attentive, but didn't hover (which I hate). The meal was a bit expensive, but absolutely worth it. I also enjoyed the atmosphere of the restaurant. It was nice without being overly pretentious or fancy. I felt comfortable and able to enjoy myself, which is the best part of going out for a nice meal. I would totally recommend it to anyone in the Fayetteville area looking for a REALLY excellent meal for a date night or even a party of friends. Seriously. GO EAT THERE.