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Restaurant Reviews for Tamarine

Tamarine

546 University Ave.
Palo Alto, CA 94301

Tamarine is a contemporary Vietnamese restaurant that features the light but flavor-intensive culinary delicacies of Vietnam. The restaurant offers a menu based on small plates, promoting the Vietnamese tradition of the 'shared' meal in which food is shared and enjoyed with those close. Tamarine's small plate entrees are enjoyed with the pairing of a variety of aromatic, flavor infused rice, designed to be mixed and matched to create a truly unique flavor experience. Along with culinary delicacies of Vietnam, the restaurant showcases the works of emerging artists from Vietnam and other Southeast Asian countries. Semi-annual exhibits will close with a cocktail event to auction the art. Proceeds will be donated to La Maison Chance, an orphanage in Saigon, Vietnam.

Dining Style: Casual Elegant
Price: $31 to $50
Parking: Street Parking
Cross Street: Tasso & Webster

See more Tamarine details

Average Diner Rating
Overall Rating		4.4 out of 5

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

Summary of Special Features

Diners classify this restaurant as:

fit for foodies (175)
special occasion (128)
neighborhood gem (83)
hot spot (65)
good for groups (63)
romantic (63)
vibrant bar scene (57)
notable wine list (49)
great for lunch (41)
late-night find (11)
great for brunch (1)

+ see more special features/tags

Tamarine Reviews List

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"It would be hard to criticize Tamarine's food and service - it's simply superb Asian fusion cuisine. Everything we ordered was cooked perfectly and tasted great, the service was professional and friendly, and the decor is gorgeous. I would eat here all the time if I could afford to. Excellent overall."

Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Outstanding)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

FEATURED REVIEW

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 06/26/2009

(review submitted 06/29/2009)

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Review 2 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Creative cooking. First rate cuisine, excellent service. A bit noisy."

Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 06/24/2009

(review submitted 06/26/2009)

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Review 3 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Always a magnificent meal, with truly nuanced and wonderful flavors. The only downside is the noise level. The crowd tends to be a bit businessy and loud. But it's worth it for great food and really good service."

Special Features: fit for foodies

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 06/23/2009

(review submitted 06/25/2009)

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Review 4 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Poor)

"Horrible food. Will not be coming back anytime soon. Such a disappointment. Service was horrible on top of that."

Food		(Poor)
Ambiance		(Poor)
Service		(Poor)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 06/22/2009

(review submitted 06/24/2009)

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Review 5 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"The somelleir was fantastic. We brought two bottles of wine with us. They decanted the younger of the two and told us to call ahead next time with the wine we were bringing so that he could have the classes on the table."

Special Features: vibrant bar scene, late-night find, special occasion

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 06/20/2009

(review submitted 06/22/2009)

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Review 6 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Good)

"I'm not too sure that I'd be back to eat a full meal here. I'd come back for the drinks and the papaya salad and that's about it."

Food		(Good)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 06/21/2009

(review submitted 06/22/2009)

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Review 7 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Delicious food, excellent service, attentive, friendly, and accommodating without being intrusive. Pricey, but classy. Great for special occasions."

Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion, hot spot

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Outstanding)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 06/19/2009

(review submitted 06/22/2009)

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Review 8 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"The food and service were very good. Bartender was very helpful and friendly in helping us select wines by the glass and recommending items from the menu."

Special Features: fit for foodies, great for lunch, hot spot

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 06/17/2009

(review submitted 06/19/2009)

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Review 9 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"When we made the reservation on Open Table, I submitted a request for a quiet table as we were celebrating our 7th anniversary. When we arrived, we checked in and the hostess wished us happy anniversary and we were immediately seated. At our table, an anniversary card and special cookies were waiting for us. Service was top-notch. This was our first time eating at Tamarine and we loved the food. Shaking Beef and Blackened Lemongrass Seabass were our main entrees. The green beans were excellent. We ordered the empress rice w/o eggs. Desert was the banana beneigts (sp?). We loved everything about this meal and definitely plan to go back again!"

Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Outstanding)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 06/17/2009

(review submitted 06/19/2009)

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Review 10 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"We had the most fabulous time at dinner last night at Tamarine. The food is sublime in its fusion of flavors; the service is wonderful in that our needs were anticipated and the servers were never overbearing; the vibe of the restaurant is fun and festive, and I couldn't imagine being elsewhere for a birthday celebration. Thank you for making it special!"

Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Outstanding)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 06/17/2009

(review submitted 06/19/2009)

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Review 11 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Absolutely wonderful flavors. May not be that authentically Vietnamese, but well suited for American palate. A bit on the expensive side, but well worth it."

Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Outstanding)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 06/17/2009

(review submitted 06/19/2009)

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Review 12 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Fabulous food and great ambiance. Excellent menu choices for both omnivores and vegetarians."

Special Features: fit for foodies, great for lunch

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Outstanding)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 06/16/2009

(review submitted 06/19/2009)

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Review 13 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Delicious food, good variety of selections, and very good service. The only constructive criticism is that the wine list is quite expensive and not very good. (Corkage is $25, so we bring our own wine.)"

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 06/16/2009

(review submitted 06/18/2009)

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Review 14 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Our waiter was outstanding. His suggestions were wonderful as was his interest and chit-chat. The food was truly outstanding."

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 06/16/2009

(review submitted 06/18/2009)

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Review 15 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"This is hands down my favorite restaurant on the peninsula. The food is great, the cocktails are unbelievable, and the service is fast and unobtrusive. You may leave with a lighter wallet, but its always been worth it."

Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, hot spot

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Outstanding)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 06/14/2009

(review submitted 06/16/2009)

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Review 16 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Some say it's not authentic Vietnamese cuisine but I'm sorry, I don't care. Tamarine's food is immensely delicious and presented very well. Their Western palate twist on traditional Vietnamese food is great in my book. It's in the same class as Xanh in Mountain View and Three Seasons in Palo Alto but probably leads those other two.

In particular, I enjoyed the Filet Mignon Tartare appetizer, the aubergine side dish, the sea bass and garlic & forbidden rice.

No Pho here. :-)"

Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Outstanding)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 06/13/2009

(review submitted 06/15/2009)

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Review 17 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Tamarine is a unique experience. The food is original and wonderful. The rice noodles with crab meat is a must. The lamb chops were perfect - not too fatty, and done just right with an asian twist, but still suitable for the meat and potatoes eater. Everything else I have tried has been excellent.
TIP: Make a reservation, or just show up at opening time - 5.30 - and you will get a table.
After 6.30 it has been packed every time I've been there."

Special Features: fit for foodies

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Outstanding)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 06/11/2009

(review submitted 06/13/2009)

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Review 18 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Good)

"We ordered:
Salt and Pepper Calamari - Fair, but disappointing compared to past experiences with this dish
Shrimp Spring Rolls - Fair, spices seem lacking
Ha long bay soup - Great, the reason we come back
Shaking Beef - Good dish
Basil Tofu - Still good, but not as good as in past
Forbidden Rice - Not very good, but pretty expensive at $7.50 - stick to Jasmine at $1.50
Big disappointment was the removal of Tamarine Prawns
Overall - I am taking off my list as a go-to place. The bill for two adults and one subteen boy, with only one glass of wine, no dessert or coffee came to $100. It is just no longer worth the price. We are sad about this restaurant losing its way."

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Fair)
Service		(Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 06/08/2009

(review submitted 06/10/2009)

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Review 19 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Worth the trip from Marin. Unusual dishes well prepared. No explanation from staff when dishes were presented. Multiple servers and table attendants made service an issue."

Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, special occasion

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 06/07/2009

(review submitted 06/09/2009)

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Review 20 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Vietnamese-inspired cal cuisine. A favorite for my wife and I when we visit Palo Alto. The food is absolutely amazing. The vibe is chic and urban. The service is usually excellent, but can be slow on occasion (e.g. when the place is packed, like it was on our last visit). Clear your credit balance - meals here are pricey, because the old adage 'you get what you pay for' definitely applies here."

Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, hot spot

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Outstanding)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 06/06/2009

(review submitted 06/08/2009)

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Review 21 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"As usual Tamarine's food was fabulous. The only complaint I had was that I was celebrating a birthday (which I had noted in the reservation). At first they were very attentive to the fact. Gave my friend a birthday card and had told me that they would bring over a dessert stating Happy Birthday at the end of our meal. They never brought the dessert. I probably wouldn't have cared, had they not mentioned it to begin with. When you say you're going to do something, then you should do it."

Special Features: vibrant bar scene, romantic, special occasion, hot spot

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 06/05/2009

(review submitted 06/07/2009)

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Review 22 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Good)

"We were a little disappointed by this highly rated restaurant. The calamari is cut up calamari steak (not the rings and bodies you would expect) and the long beans had an odd spice. The onion rings and the seafood noodles were tasty."

Food		(Good)
Ambiance		(Good)
Service		(Fair)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 06/05/2009

(review submitted 06/07/2009)

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Review 23 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Each trip in May and June 2009, the caramelized prawns were overcooked and the shaking beef was not served as hot as expected. Nevertheless, my guests were happy, and I would come back again especially for the excellent service that I've received."

Special Features: neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 06/03/2009

(review submitted 06/07/2009)

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Review 24 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"I live nearby and have been coming here for years. The food is always fantastic and the service is very polite, knowledgeable about the foods and the complementary wines. It is pretty loud, though.."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Outstanding)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 06/03/2009

(review submitted 06/06/2009)

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Review 25 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Good)

"Food is still good, but the service level drops beyond average."

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Fair)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 06/02/2009

(review submitted 06/05/2009)

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Review 26 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"The food and service were excellent!!!!"

Special Features: fit for foodies, late-night find, neighborhood gem, romantic

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 05/31/2009

(review submitted 06/02/2009)

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Review 27 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Tamarine never disappoints, the verity of dishes and the way they are prepared is wonderful. The staff is friendly and very prompt. I highly recommend it."

Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, notable wine list, special occasion, hot spot

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Outstanding)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 05/29/2009

(review submitted 05/31/2009)

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Review 28 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"From the beginning to now Tamarine outdoes itself every time. We love this place!"

Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Outstanding)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 05/26/2009

(review submitted 05/28/2009)

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Review 29 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Although we have been to Tamarine several times, this current time was one of those outstanding food experiences that just happens once in a while. The food was excellent. The wait staff terrific and overall the experience was great fun. For a while I thought Slanted Door and Tamarine were neck and neck, but I think Tamarine has surpassed Slanted Door now."

Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, great for lunch

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 05/26/2009

(review submitted 05/28/2009)

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Review 30 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"They greeted us with a Happy Anniversary card which was very nice. The food overall was excellent. My only comments would be the tables for 2 were so close together it was hard pass between them and the service although very thorough was a bit slow. Overall a great place for a special occasion."

Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 05/24/2009

(review submitted 05/26/2009)

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Review 31 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Fair)

"this was our third trip to Tamarine and we were very disappointed in the food. It was very mediocre in flavors and creativity.
We also thought it was way overpriced for what it was."

Food		(Fair)
Ambiance		(Good)
Service		(Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 05/24/2009

(review submitted 05/26/2009)

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Review 32 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Our first time as a couple, and we had a wonderful meal. Every dish was delightful, and that doesn't happen to us very often!"

Special Features: fit for foodies

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Outstanding)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 05/21/2009

(review submitted 05/25/2009)

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Review 33 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Overall, Tamarine delivers a solid dining experience. Food quality was fantastic, especially the appetizers. We had the calamari, chicken skewers, and the roti & curry sauce which came in entree portions and were unbelievably tasty. We could have easily doubled down on the appetizers and made a meal of it. The entrees were good, not great, the notable exception being the snapper which was cooked and served to perception on a bed of chilled noodles. The shaking beef was just okay, and lacked the distinctive flavors that I was looking for, so my recommendation would be to stick with the seafood. Our server was friendly but busy, even at 545 pm, and stopped by frequently but glasses were empty on several occasions which somewhat disappointed."

Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, notable wine list

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 05/23/2009

(review submitted 05/25/2009)

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Review 34 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Good)

"All of the food we ordered was great - very tasty and nicely displayed. My only issue was the cost. Because it was so exorbitantly expensive (even for Palo Alto), we were very conservative on ordering and didn't order a few things we would have liked to try. Also, the wine list was mostly unfamiliar to me, but the few bottles I would have considered ordering were a minimum of $100, so I ordered the cheapest half-bottle on the menu... which was $30, ok, not great. That made it overall disappointing."

Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 05/22/2009

(review submitted 05/24/2009)

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Review 35 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Food and service were very good; however, we had two drinks (a manhattan and a martini)and two glasses of "house" chardonnay and the bar tap was $48 - $12 each! Outrageous! For a very special occasion, a great choice. Not sure I would return for any other reason."

Special Features: special occasion

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 05/20/2009

(review submitted 05/22/2009)

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Review 36 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"As always, the food and service were wonderful. My favorite taro root rolls are now available on their own rather than just as part of a sampling of things which made me quite happy."

Special Features: fit for foodies, great for lunch

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 05/19/2009

(review submitted 05/21/2009)

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Review 37 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Delightful as always. Excellent service, delicious food, attractive surroundings. My only complaint is that the wonderful half moon pancakes have been dropped from the menu."

Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 05/17/2009

(review submitted 05/19/2009)

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Review 38 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Good)

"Food is always excellent here, though we were disappointed with the very slow service on this particular occasion. Also, we had made a note on our OpenTable reservation that we were celebrating a birthday. I thought they might bring out a token cupcake or scoop of ice cream, something, but they didnt. Then, when the birthday celebrant selected a dessert from the menu, they told us they were out of it."

Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Fair)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 05/14/2009

(review submitted 05/18/2009)

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Review 39 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"very tasty food, beautifully presented. Really enjoyed sea bass, shaking steak and eggplant. Waiter was helpful describing menu items and his favorites. Service was very good, attentive but not obtrusive. Enjoyed signature drink, Mango Mojito."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 05/15/2009

(review submitted 05/18/2009)

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Review 40 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"I have wanted to come here for sometime now. It was late and we did not want to eat too much, so, we ordered 3 appetizers, soup and fried noodles. The tuna tartar was fresh, just the right firmness and paired well with the wonton skins. The Hokkaido scallops was seared to the right tenderness and topped with delicious caviar. The stuffed quail was simply delicious, not dry and done just right; the sticky rice stuffing was a surprising Asian touch. The soup was served hot and steaming just like soup should be. Finally the noodles was full of seafood in a juicy broth. Service from the moment I walked in to when I received the check was very good."

Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, late-night find, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, hot spot

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 05/16/2009

(review submitted 05/18/2009)

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Review 41 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"I have dined at Tamarine twice before, and I have decided that it is the best restaurant
in Palo Alto. The food is sensational and the wines are exceptional. I love the place."

Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, great for lunch, hot spot

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Outstanding)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 05/12/2009

(review submitted 05/14/2009)

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Review 42 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Good)

"Wait staff attempted to take our plates away while we were still eating! The noise was incredibly ridiculous. The diners next to us were talking so loudly that we could not even hold our private conversation and their loud conversation was non-stop! This is NOT a place to go if you want a romantic/quiet meal."

Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, special occasion

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Good)
Service		(Poor)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 05/11/2009

(review submitted 05/13/2009)

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Review 43 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"We eat here often. This time we ate rock shrimp fritters. caramelized onion prawns, hoisin lamb chops with magnificent sweet potato fries, banana beignets with vanilla black tea. It was all superb. Practically speaking, reservations are required. -- Enjoy!"

Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, special occasion, hot spot

Food		(Poor)
Ambiance		(Poor)
Service		(Poor)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 05/11/2009

(review submitted 05/13/2009)

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Review 44 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Tamarine is among the best restaurants on the Peninsula. I have been there at least 5 times and every visit has been enjoyable. It does get busy on Fridays and Saturdays, so make reservations early."

Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 05/11/2009

(review submitted 05/13/2009)

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Review 45 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Food was outstanding, but it did take a while to get to us. Probably duebto it being super busy on Mother's Day."

Special Features: special occasion

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 05/10/2009

(review submitted 05/13/2009)

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Review 46 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"The Roti is great. My wife and I always just split 4 appetizers - there are always more options we want to try than space in our stomachs. The menu varies over time, so there are new things to try if you haven't been in a while.

THe noise level is somewhat high, so don't go there if you want a really quiet time - but the atmosphere is nice. Similar in character to Cascal's in Mountain View, but slightly more upscale and romantic. Friends have said the entrees are good too.

Highlights include: Roti, corn fritters, shaking beef."

Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Outstanding)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 05/08/2009

(review submitted 05/13/2009)

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Review 47 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"What wonderful service! A kind of elegance an professionalism that you rarely find any more. The GM, Rob, made us feel so welcome, and our waiter made us feel as if we were old friends, who'd been coming there for years!"

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 05/10/2009

(review submitted 05/12/2009)

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Review 48 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Fantastic, tasty food. Went great with well-paired wine. Somewhat crowded and noisy, but a great experience overall."

Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, hot spot

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 04/03/2009

(review submitted 05/05/2009)

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Review 49 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Fair)

"Tamarind is SO inconsistent. When it is good, it is very, very good; but when it is bad it is horrid! My experience on Friday night was horrid- I know they can do better than serving bland calamari, cold prawns, and soggy won tons. I had planned a special evening with my boyfriend, and was utterly disappointed in every thing!"

Food		(Poor)
Ambiance		(Good)
Service		(Fair)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 05/01/2009

(review submitted 05/03/2009)

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Review 50 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Even with rave reviews from friends, the four of us were stunned by the high quality of each of the seven dishes we ordered. Absolutely superb, eager to return to try more."

Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for lunch

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Outstanding)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 04/30/2009

(review submitted 05/02/2009)

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Review 51 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Food was outstanding. Had the egglplant, Bao with sauce, shrimp, Shaking Beef, kind of a sticky rice, tuna tartare and the cabbage and tomato salad. Art work and lighting added to the sleek ambiance. Service was very good and understated. Water glasses were filled in a timely fashion. New plates and chopsticks were brought after the appetizer courses were finished. Brought us our doggie bag only after prompting. Noise level was on the high side but not enough to affect our three way conversations. A good find for a first time dining experience...an ample sized free public parking lot is adjacent to the restaurant via an alleyway."

Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, hot spot

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Outstanding)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 04/30/2009

(review submitted 05/02/2009)

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Review 52 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Tamarine continues to impress with its pan-Asian flair. Shaking beef and crab with glass noodles are especially good, the house mojito is great, but the standout is the coconut tapioca dessert. I would crawl across hot sand for this."

Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion, hot spot

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Outstanding)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 04/24/2009

(review submitted 04/28/2009)

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Review 53 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Everything we had was completely delicious, although the best thing by far was the croissant-like fried, buttery bread dipped in some creamy dipping sauce; it's a must. Very pretty inside, very cool bar."

Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 04/25/2009

(review submitted 04/27/2009)

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Review 54 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"The food was fabulous - everything was very tasty. We had the Tamarine Taste appetizer, which is a variety of appetizers. Loved the papaya salad and the tea leaf rolls. For entrees, the peppercorn beef and the seafood rice noodles were outstanding. The empress rice was a different take on "fried rice", but very good nonetheless. The dessert menu looked amazing, but we were stuffed! The ambiance was not as good as the food - we were stuck between two tables that were very close to us. The service was great - very helpful and attentive wait staff. I'd love to go back in the future."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion, hot spot

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 04/24/2009

(review submitted 04/26/2009)

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Review 55 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Energetic on a Friday night. Service remained good even with a few large groups in the restaurant. Other tables around us got more guidance with the menu and style of food than our waitress provided. Excellent overall."

Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, special occasion, hot spot

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 04/24/2009

(review submitted 04/25/2009)

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Review 56 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"This was our first visit to Tamarine. The general manager Robert greeted us and made two excellent Pinot Noir recommendations during the course of our meal. Luis was our server and provided outstanding service throughout the meal. We started with the lamb meatballs and the Taro Root rolls. The Taro root rolls were excellent. The lamb meatballs with cherries were quite tasty. Our second course was curried long beans and empress rice. Both very good. Our main courses were Shaking Beef (a great take on this classic). The clay pot cod was tasty but the cod had a little more of a fishy taste than black cod usually has. Many thanks to Robert and Luis for making my partner's birthday dinner a special event."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 04/22/2009

(review submitted 04/24/2009)

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Review 57 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"This restaurant is consistently excellent. We love to share lots of appetizers in lieu of an entree. Atmosphere is always lively and yet one can talk intimately. Great bar to wait for your table at and conscientious and well trained staff. Excellent."

Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 04/20/2009

(review submitted 04/22/2009)

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Review 58 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Great spot, fabulous food, definitely a favorite place for special occasions. I dream about Empress Rice for weeks before visits! My only gripe: our server was rather pretentious and as a veteran of working in high-end restaurants, I grew annoyed at being talked down to (presumably because my date and I declined to order alcohol)."

Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 04/19/2009

(review submitted 04/21/2009)

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Review 59 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Tamarine was a magical experience. We had amazingly friendly service, delicious food, complex palate-pleasing appetizers, and an all around great experience."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Outstanding)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 04/18/2009

(review submitted 04/21/2009)

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Review 60 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Good)

"I had taken my wife out to dinner for her birthday to Tamarine. Our prior reservations with OpenTable helped immensely as the place was packed. The place was noisy. The food and wines were awesome (especially the lamb chops and the sea bass). I found the service ok (I presume it might have to do with the packed place) and the tables were placed too close for our comfort (sigh) but then you cannot get everything. All in all a good place to eat."

Special Features: special occasion

Food		(Good)
Ambiance		(Fair)
Service		(Fair)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 04/16/2009

(review submitted 04/21/2009)

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Review 61 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"I have been to Tamarine about 6 times and have always been impressed. The Hau Long Bay Soup - is fantastic - coconut soup with crab wontons is my favorite. One of the best restaurants in Palo Alto."

Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion, hot spot

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 04/17/2009

(review submitted 04/21/2009)

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Review 62 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Yum! The clay pot cod was awesome as was the curry bean dish and all the fun types of rice they offer."

Special Features: fit for foodies

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Outstanding)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 04/18/2009

(review submitted 04/20/2009)

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Review 63 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"The food was very good and presented beautifully by skilled servers. Our cocktails was perfectly made. Clearly there is a skilled bartender behind their beautiful bar. The menu choices were many and varied as is the Vietnamese cuisine. The pot de creme we shared for dessert was the finest we'd ever had. That being said, I thought the food was just a little over priced. We will definitely return."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 04/13/2009

(review submitted 04/15/2009)

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Review 64 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Simply the best sea bass ever! Everthing was tops!"

Special Features: special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 04/13/2009

(review submitted 04/14/2009)

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Review 65 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Excellent food. The grill egggplant, the glass nooodle with crab and the cod in a clay pot were outstanding. The sea bass was in the dry side and the tappioca with too runny for my taste. Moderate price, good values. Will definitely come back."

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 04/11/2009

(review submitted 04/13/2009)

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Review 66 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Great food and wonderful service."

Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, hot spot

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 04/10/2009

(review submitted 04/12/2009)

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Review 67 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"My parents were in from out of town and we knew they would love this special restaurant with unique cuisine. Service was outstanding. This can be a noisy restaurant if you're seated near the bar. We had a great corner booth in the next room."

Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 04/10/2009

(review submitted 04/12/2009)

1 of 1 people found this review helpful.

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Review 68 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Perfection in service: attentive, yet restrained; informative, but not chatty; mature, but friendly. Food is savory, different, delicious, with a variety of choices. I gave three stars for two reasons - first, the food wasn't stunningly great; and second, I feel that the wine list is seriously overpriced, even for Palo Alto, with some bottles apparently priced at up to 4X retail. I mean, $165 for a little-above-average French chardonnay is excessive. I'd return, but probably only on an expense account. Our total without wine for 3 people was $180 and this included three starters, three mains, rice, and coffee."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion

Food		(Good)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 04/06/2009

(review submitted 04/08/2009)

1 of 1 people found this review helpful.

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Review 69 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"This is my favorite place to eat"

Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion, great for lunch

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Outstanding)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 04/06/2009

(review submitted 04/08/2009)

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Review 70 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Went to lunch with friends and we shared several dishes, and all were delicious. My two dining companions were very impressed with the flavors. Our waiter was very helpful in making menu choices appropriate for "light eating.""

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion, great for lunch

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 03/18/2009

(review submitted 04/07/2009)

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Review 71 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"All of the waiter's recommendations were spot-on. We ordered the Shaking Beef, Forbidden Rice, and a prawns dish. The desserts were also wonderful. I look forward to going back."

Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, special occasion, great for lunch

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 02/24/2009

(review submitted 04/07/2009)

1 of 1 people found this review helpful.

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Review 72 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Calamari was great, and the shaking beef, as always, was delicious. Welcome to new waiter Paul, very attentive and helpful."

Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 04/05/2009

(review submitted 04/07/2009)

1 of 1 people found this review helpful.

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Review 73 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Great food and service. The goat cheese cake is out of this world !"

Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion, hot spot

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 03/29/2009

(review submitted 03/31/2009)

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Review 74 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Our meal was superb. The service was excellent and great attention was given to the fact that I had notified in advance that I would be hosting a birtday dinner, including a lovely table, comp'd drink at the bar and comp'd dessert with birthday wishes. I will definitely make this a regular in my list of favorite restaurants. I need to drive a ways to get there, but well worth it."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Outstanding)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 03/28/2009

(review submitted 03/31/2009)

1 of 1 people found this review helpful.

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Review 75 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"The food here is a delight in taste sensations! I love the lamb chops with sweet potato fries - my fav dish every time I go there. We also ordered the Shaking Beef (Filet Mignon) and Mahi Mahi - and each dish was unique and delicious. Mixed drinks are made with freshly-squeezed juices. Service is very attentive but not intrusive. Tamarine continues to provide a high level of food quality and service."

Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Outstanding)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 03/28/2009

(review submitted 03/30/2009)

1 of 1 people found this review helpful.

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Review 76 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Great Martinis especially the "Red Lotus"

Still ticks me off when the idea is to share and there are 5 people and 4 pieces on the plate. Add another spring roll, would you please!!

I would also be fine if there were 3 of us. Leave one in the kitchen

Great food and not cheap. Expect a little more generous thinking and treatment of the patrons. Tip included which is a little off putting, too!!"

Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 03/26/2009

(review submitted 03/29/2009)

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Review 77 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"The food is outstanding and the ambiance is lively, if loud. However, the place is so packed that the service can be a bit lacking, from slow seating for reserved tables and less attentive table service. Even so, it's worth it."

Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, late-night find, neighborhood gem, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Good)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 03/27/2009

(review submitted 03/29/2009)

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Review 78 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"A friend and I had lunch at Tamarine. The scents and tastes are just scrumptuous as are the surroundings. Sharing the food really added to the experience. Unfortuately the bill was a bit of an eye-popper.....$100 for 2 with no alcohol: 2 lemonades, 1 appetizer, 2 entrees, 2 rice bowls and 1 dessert to split. Skip the chocolate dessert. It doesn't fit the menu.

We had a really lovely lunch and leisured through without being rushed at all."

Special Features: fit for foodies, great for lunch

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 03/24/2009

(review submitted 03/26/2009)

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Review 79 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Great food, as always. Restaurant was quite crowded during our visit (a good thing in these times, I know!), but it did affect the atmosphere negatively. Sitting on the long banquette against the wall, every time someone got up or shifted their weight further down the banquette, all of us would bounce in place as if on an amusement park ride. The tables for two had been pushed so close together (due to a leaking ceiling) that conversations from each table could be heard mingled with our own -- a bit too crowded and disheveled for what Tamaraine usually delivers, but still a wonderful restaurant!"

Special Features: fit for foodies

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 03/23/2009

(review submitted 03/25/2009)

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Review 80 for Tamarine

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Superb food, especially the half moon crepes, the ha lang bay soup, and the sea bass. Great desserts too."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion, hot spot

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experie