518 West
518 West is one of my frequent lunch destinations. Besides having a wide range of food, their service is fast and friendly. Lunch is a special case for me, and I look for a few quality things I believe are important.
First: The menu must have a wide array of choices. Although traditionally an Italian restaurant, 518 has many choices, including their chicken salad panini (with walnuts and grapes, yum) and their Montana Ranch burger (available with gorgonzola)
Second: The service should be fast. We’ll generally go in between 11.30 and 12:00, service is quick, courteous and helpful. One measure of this for me, is that the wait person is ready to take our order when they come to the table. We’ve been there quite often and can with a quick glance of the specials can decide what we want. Getting a quick lunch and getting back to work is a priority.
Finally: The wait person should be able to split checks. We’ve never had a problem with this request at 518 (as well as with most places downtown for lunch). The establishments realize that we’ll want separate checks because it’s more convenient for us.
On to lunch… Today, I had one of my favorite choices, the Montana Ranch burger with gorgonzola and a side classic caesar.
Although not what you’d consider traditional italian, 518 pulls the burger off nicely. The burger is served any where above medium and I like to have it topped with gorgonzola (which they toast nicely). The bun is light and fluffy and it is served with a garlic aioli.
The side caesar is about a $2 addition that I truly enjoy. They make their caesar salads fresh to order. croutons are day old made from their in house bread and the parmesan is actually grated from a block. If you have a chance, stop in for lunch, I’ve had many of items they offer, I’m sure there is something available for whatever mood you’re in.
Some other items I’d suggest would be the chicken panini (an open face grilled chicken breast covered with grilled onions and cheese) or the chicken salad Panini (referred to above, fresh made chicken salad with walnuts and grapes).
–Matt