Prime
Guilford, CT
Prime
Guilford, CT
BEYOND THE MENU 🍸
A Night Out in Guilford
First Stop, Prime!
You know those places you just keep going back to because there’s so much to love? Well, Prime on Whitfield Street in Guilford is one of ours!
Last night Vinny and I decided to hit two of our favorite spots. First, Prime for a bite to eat, then over to Quattro’s for some live music and dancing. (I’ll get to Quattro’s in my next post because that’s a whole other kind of fun!)
First of all, what’s not to love about Prime?!
Located right on the beautiful Guilford Green, surrounded by charming boutiques, some of which stay open late, it’s the perfect place to stroll around if you’re waiting for a table.
And the restaurant itself? Gorgeous!
The outdoor tables are beautifully set with glasses and candles, and the warm lighting makes the whole place look so inviting that you can’t help but want to go inside.
And inside certainly doesn’t disappoint! Think old-world charm meets farmhouse chic.
Who doesn't love a little Audrey!
It’s warm, cozy, beautifully decorated, and the attention to detail carries right into the ladies’ room. You know I notice these things!
Now let’s talk food!
We’ve been to Prime at least six times, and I honestly can’t remember ever having a bad meal.
Yes, it can be pricey if you’re in the mood for one of their delicious steaks, but there’s plenty on the menu if you don’t feel like going all out. And their burgers? To die for!
Last night I just felt like having a couple of appetizers, so I ordered the steak nachos and French onion soup. Both were absolutely mouthwatering!
Vinny went with a burger, and I swear, even his burger was beautiful! Actually, everything I watched coming out of that kitchen was beautifully presented, and they certainly don’t skimp on the portions!
Of course, we had our vodka martinis with blue cheese olives.
Now here’s something I appreciate. They serve THREE generously stuffed blue cheese olives, and they are delicious!
I still had a little martini left and was craving just one more olive, so I asked the bartender if I could have one.
She gave me THREE!
Well, somebody had to eat them, right?!
By the time we finished, you practically had to roll me out of there. Good thing we were heading to Quattro’s to dance some of those calories off! But there’s something else I have to mention about Prime. The people!
I don’t know what it is about these two spots in Guilford, but we always seem to meet the nicest people. Everyone is so darn friendly! And honestly, that’s a big part of what makes a night out so enjoyable. Sometimes it’s not just where you’re going, it’s who you meet along the way.
So, was there anything I’d change? Just one little thing.
The bartenders were nice, attentive, and did their jobs well. We certainly weren’t neglected.
But I couldn’t help thinking about the wonderful hospitality we recently experienced in Vermont, where the bartenders introduced themselves, chatted with us, and made us feel like old friends.
That little extra warmth was missing here.
There were two bartenders working a relatively small bar, and I would have loved a little more interaction. A simple introduction, a “Have you been here before?” or a “Welcome back!” can make such a difference.
Maybe some bartenders assume people don’t want to be bothered, and I’m sure some don’t. But having bartended myself, I was always taught that you’re not just there to take orders and pour drinks. You’re there to create an experience.
And that’s how you build a following!
It’s those little personal touches that turn a great restaurant into a place where everybody knows your name.
Would we go back? In a heartbeat!
Prime has so much going for it. Beautiful atmosphere, wonderful food, generous portions, and a location that’s hard to beat.
And despite my little critique, it’s absolutely one of our favorites!
Now stay tuned for stop number two… Quattro’s!
Because what started as a lovely dinner turned into a night of music, dancing, and more of those wonderful Guilford people!
Have you been to Prime? 🍸
I’d love to hear what you thought! Did you love the food, the atmosphere, or both?
Join the conversation on our Facebook page, Where Should We Go?