I had an evening to myself yesterday – all of my immediate loved ones had to work, so I wanted a treat and a moment to relax on my own. ☺️ My absolute favorite place to eat in my town is the Progress Grille, an upscale, Greek-American restaurant on Walnut Street that specializes in seafood, steaks, and so much more in between. My personal favorites are the broiled crab cakes and the broiled lobster tail. ☺️

Progress Grille, in my opinion, has always been one of those places that adults went to for date nights, to have a nice dinner and time out, without kids – although there is a “kid section” on the menu. It reminds me of one of those restaurants you’d see in movies – with the dimmed lights, cozy atmosphere, candle-lit tables, couples conversing, upscale menu – everything you can think of.

The dining experience at Progress Grille doesn’t disappoint my imagination, with their well-trained and structured staff – complete with uniformity and professionalism. I was warmly greeted upon arrival this evening by Nick, the host, who is a co-owner of this establishment with his brother John. When I asked for bar seating, Nick escorted me to my desired area, where I was then met by a server named Cody, who welcomed me to my seat as if he’d read my mind as to which seat I’d choose. I found that small touch of intuitiveness to be refreshing.

As I sat and received gracious service by not only Cody, but also his co-worker Dory, who checked on me and made sure my water glass was never empty, I watched as everything around me ran like a well-oiled machine. As the staff moved about, the customers, including myself, were laid back and comfortable, while being served with confidence. Nothing was out of order or out of place, as regulars filed in and greeted the owners, John and Nick by name, and were treated like old friends.

I started my order with a cocktail of Grey Goose with cranberry juice. What you will understand about this establishment is that when you order a drink, the pour is heavy. So expect to get the drink of Grey Goose and not so much the cranberry juice, unless you specify that you want extra juice. I don’t recommend you ask for “a double” of anything unless you know for sure what you’re getting into. 😂😂

For dinner, I had one of my favorite dishes – the broiled crab cakes, a baked potato, a Greek salad and dinner rolls, all of which I never share with anyone because they’re all THAT good! Even the rolls! 😁 I normally don’t finish my dinner in one sitting, but this time I was hungry, so I ate everything but one of the crab cakes, which I did have boxed to bring home.

During my stay, co-owner John came and sat next to me and in the midst of small talk, he informed me that they’ve been in business there, serving the community for 38 years. I saw the pride in his smile and warm demeanor with me, as well as the professionalism of his staff. I also met a served named Andrew who came to greet me personally as well. 😁 Nick, the host and co-owner also sat and talked with me a while and informed me that the summer months are the best time in which customers can come in for quick and easy seating, as the late fall, winter and early spring months are their heavy season where seating is tight and reservations are highly recommended. I had noticed that but it made much sense having it explained by him.

So for me, Progress Grille comes highly recommended if you’re looking for a good place for either a date night or an upscale dinner with adult family and/or friends. I’ve been patronizing this establishment for several years and it has never once failed me. So if this is one of those spots that you’ve always seen but never stopped in, make it a point to try it soon. And thank me later. 😉😁

– Alonda Nyree, The Dining Room Snitch 😘