We tried The George recently, and it’s worth another look. If you are like me, you tried it some time ago but found it wanting. Too many people had problems with service and getting what they wanted. Fortunately, someone got wind of those complaints.
Doug Saunders, who many remember from Chelsea’s Wine Bar, is now the manager. He and the new chef have retooled everything from the menu to server training. They are trying to buy everything local to showcase area farmers and fishers. Cosmetic “surgery” is next, with new paint to make the place less South Beach.
Our group had the Lobster Thermidor, the Blackened Mahi, and the Ahi Tuna.
The Thermidor was the best I’ve ever had. Of course, that’s partly because it is the only Lobster Thermidor I’ve ever had. It always sounded impressive, and The George let me find out firsthand. Essentially, it’s lobster tail in a sherry cream sauce. That preparation brought out the sweetness of the lobster, and I cleaned the plate, along with the sides of asparagus and red potatoes. If you like your butter or are a fan of the ‘buttergasm’ scene in Julie and Julia, you’ll love those potatoes.
The Mahi was juicy and “perfectly cooked” according to the bride. It is served over a ”sweet corn potato hash.” Unfortuantely, the server didn’t know which noun the “sweet” modified, and we thought we’d get sweet potatoes. Not.
The Ahi Tuna looked great, but the spices came on a bit strong. Good tuna stands on its own and doesn’t need a lot of extra kick. We mentioned this to Doug, and he said they could go lighter. So if you order the Tuna, be sure to tell your waiter if you want them to “hold the kick.”
The George’s prominent location on the Riverwalk makes it a key link between the main downtown near Market St. and the Chandler’s Wharf area. We look forward to a return visit and the chance to sit outside and enjoy the passing scene.
For more restaurants go to http://restaurants.enjoywilmington.com
The Wilmington Star News recently profiled Doug Sanders the manager of the George. You can find that link here:
http://www.starnewsonline.com/article/20110816/ARTICLES/110819763