On Saturday tigerphoenix and I went to a place newly opened in the Monroeville Mall called Monterey Bay Fish Grotto. Now that was a nice experience.

I don't know if it's common practice (though I suspect it was, for reasons you'll see) or just our waiter, but the guy who was serving us had a lot of class. Rather than just take orders, he took the time to describe several of the best dishes on the menu, make recommendations, and answer questions. This included exquisite detail on some of the cooking the chef did. I don't doubt that chefs work a lot harder than they ever really get credit for; hearing about what the chef does and how just made everything that much more appealing. Even the salads sounded delicious.

Honestly, the food delivered. Everything was incredible. I haven't had swordfish in years. In terms of pricing, the actual fish was, I think, pretty reasonable for being fresh and flown in from all over -- and absolutely incredible. I wouldn't get the appetizer or the dessert if I was paying, not because they weren't good, but just because I don't think they were worth the price.

Still, it's someplace I'd love to go again. Pittsburghers?