Woodland

10/24/09

Substandard BLT

by alabastard at Citysearch

My partner and I order in at least five nights a week. We generally patronize Threadgill's, Magnolia, Kerbey, etc. on "comfort food night."

On occasion, we like to splurge on something better. Last night, we decided to get a couple of sandwiches from The Woodland.

(We have had their burgers and a few of their entrees in the past and have been pleased at times.)

When we phoned, we were asked to hold. Understandable for a Friday night, and I'm glad local businesses do well. But after five minutes, we were still on hold.

Still...not a big deal. I just went and ordered in person.

My biggest problem this time was with the BLT. At first it looked great. Big sandwich; the bread was good. But for ten dollars, I would expect more than four super-thin slices of bacon.

This paltry amount did not even cover the surface area of the sandwich. Not. Even. Close.

I would not even be writing this review if this weren't the latest of several disappointing experiences. We have seen a steady decline of both service and food quality at The Woodland.

The staff sometimes seems either startled by or displeased with the fact that there are people in their restaurant. I happen to think that a "cool detachment" from one's clientele is anything but.

We are not in Paris and this is not haute cuisine. A little warmth goes a long way toward making up for an underwhelming experience.

I'm afraid it's a trend that does not bode well for what has at times been -- and could be -- a good restaurant.

• Pros: Good Atmosphere
• Cons: Food Quality, Service

10/17/09

how the heck?

by aseyer at Citysearch

how is this place open? is Austin's tourism really keeping this place open? or is it the over priced EVERYTHING..is it buying produce and ingredients from Wal-Mart and selling them as if they are organic? Im a cook at a place with a very similar menu but its ALL ORGANIC and high quality and 1/4 of the price, so its not like they have to charge that much.....this place was so horrible after eating there my girlfriend and i broke up......

• Pros: Service i GUESS
• Cons: price and quality

08/23/09

American Food

by absent at Citysearch

The Woodland does not offer a large variety of choices on the menu. My assumption was that with the limited menu, everything would be exceptional. The kitchen would focus on only a few things and excel at each dish.

Breakfast: You can order two eggs any style and have 4 items with the eggs. The eggs do not have any seasoning when they are served. Yes, the Woodlands is known for down home food, but I thought they would at least reach for some seasoning. I mean you are paying $11 for eggs and 4 items. The bacon and sausage are above average.

If you are looking for plain, the Woodland should be your destination.

Service was not bad. We were served another party's food first, then had to ask for service at each stage (to order, for check,). The service was responsive after we asked.

My recommendation is for the kitchen to take some sage advice. Take more thyme in the development of the recipes. Maybe even consider turning over a new leaf (of almost any kind) and add the leaf to a dish to accentuate flavor.

• Pros: Simple Food Prepared Fairly Well
• Cons: Staff Seems Distracted