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Restaurant Reviews for Matyson

Matyson

37 South 19th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103

A sophisticated & contemporary BYO, just off Rittenhouse Square, Matyson offers New American cuisine in a casual setting. Innovative weekly tasting menus spotlight Matt & Sonjia Spector's creativity of fresh, local ingredients.

Dining Style: Casual Elegant
Price: $30 and under
Parking: Public Lot
Cross Street: Between Market & Chestnut

See more Matyson details

Average Diner Rating
Overall Rating		4.3 out of 5 (231 Reviews)

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

Summary of Special Features

Diners classify this restaurant as:

fit for foodies (162)
neighborhood gem (113)
special occasion (72)
romantic (51)
great for lunch (31)
hot spot (25)
good for groups (6)
great for brunch (2)
kid-friendly (1)
late-night find (1)

Matyson Reviews List

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Our dining experience was great! The food was terrific, and our service was excellent!
What else can I say!"

Special Features: hot spot

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 03/16/2010

(review submitted 03/18/2010)

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Review 2 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Matyson is great! It was quite possibly the best dining experience of my life. The food and service was awesome. This place was a great find!"

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

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 02/22/2010

(review submitted 03/16/2010)

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Review 3 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Everything was wonderful. Our waitress was super good! explained the dishes to perfection and was as nice as pie."

Special Features: fit for foodies

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 03/13/2010

(review submitted 03/16/2010)

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Review 4 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"This was are first time at Matyson. The food was excellent. We had the quail and pork belly appetizers and for entrees, the branzino and the pork chops. The combination of flavors in our dishes was outstanding. The restaurant itself is not very big and soon filled up and the noise level went up. The service was fine, not very attentive but efficient. The overall experience was very enjoyable. We hope to be back soon."

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

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 03/13/2010

(review submitted 03/16/2010)

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Review 5 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Good)

"Matyson has never disappointed during its now several years of operation. menu is creative and always changing. Food is fresh and interesting. Prices are reasonable. No need to say anything more!"

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 03/10/2010

(review submitted 03/14/2010)

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Review 6 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Loved it! Great food with attention. Servers were excellent and friendly"

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 02/26/2010

(review submitted 03/12/2010)

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Review 7 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Service was a bit slower than usual. I was disapointed they didnt record my open table reservation properly (they listed me as a no show until I corected)"

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 03/08/2010

(review submitted 03/11/2010)

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Review 8 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Had a great meal, with every dish well-prepared and flavorful. Service extremely warm, friendly, informed, and accommodating. Pleasant, cozy atmosphere, with soft lighting. Reasonably priced."

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

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 03/03/2010

(review submitted 03/09/2010)

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Review 9 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Good)

"Overall, this is a solid restaurant. My husband and I went a few years ago, though, and remembered it to be better than it actually was this time. I can't say anything was poor -my feeling was it just wasn't great. The restaurant is extremely popular, and getting a prime seating reservation is difficult. The BYOB option is great. Service was friendly, though I was about to eat my hand waiting for the appetitizers to come out (took about 20 minutes!)"

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 03/06/2010

(review submitted 03/09/2010)

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Review 10 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"The food is sublime and thoughtful and the service is friendly and unobtrusive. This is perhaps my favorite BYOB in all of Philadelphia."

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

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 03/06/2010

(review submitted 03/08/2010)

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Review 11 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Matyson is ALWAYS outstanding, one of our very favorites and one of the very best in the city. What a gem!! May it live forever! And the waiters are wonderful - funny, charming, knowledgeable and they obviously love the place and have tasted the food! A great dining experience."

Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 03/05/2010

(review submitted 03/07/2010)

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Review 12 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Good)

"I felt the food was not up to the same quality as when I had dined there before."

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 03/05/2010

(review submitted 03/07/2010)

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Review 13 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Matyson has never disappointed! The food is the real deal -- gnocchi and papardelle that were both gourmet and comfort food, pork special that was a delicious combination -- but for me, dessert cannot be skipped. Creme brulee was perfect and pure, and the coconut cream pie was a main reason for our visit. Coffee is some of the very best ever (even though I shouldn't have had that second cup, it was rather worth the lost sleep)."

Special Features: fit for foodies, great for lunch

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 02/27/2010

(review submitted 03/03/2010)

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Review 14 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Good)

"It was very, very noisy. Loved the appetizer,but the main dish found too salty for my taste."

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 02/27/2010

(review submitted 03/03/2010)

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Review 15 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"The food was very, very good, though I was not a fan of the skate entree. Filet mignon was fabulous, as was the soup special and the gnocchi with broccoli rabe. Our server was incredibly friendly and made an awesome late-night recommendation for after dinner."

Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 02/27/2010

(review submitted 03/02/2010)

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Review 16 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Our meal was fantastic! Our waitress was attentive and played along with my fun/crazy bunch of girlfriends. The pork chop special was out of this world."

Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 02/26/2010

(review submitted 02/28/2010)

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Review 17 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Good)

"The waiters could have been friendlier. The Valentine's day desserts were fantastic."

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 02/14/2010

(review submitted 02/26/2010)

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Review 18 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Great food and service---horribly noisy---all hard surfaces. Would go back for food, but not to have a long visit with good friends"

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

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 02/20/2010

(review submitted 02/25/2010)

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Review 19 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"This was my third visit to Matyson. With so many options in Philly, I'm not a big fan of returning back to a restaurant that I've been to before but Matyson is well worth every return visit. Starting from dessert, the pine nut tart I had for dessert was great. So many restaurants fall flat on their face when it comes to dessert, as if the final course was just an after thought. Obviously, they have a talented pastry chef in the kitchen. The Skate I had for the main course could not have been prepared any better. The fish boasted an amazingly crisp texture. The fish was moist, and the textures and tastes of the accompanyments were out of this world. And the squash soup was a perfect way to kick off my fantastic lunch experience."

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

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 02/23/2010

(review submitted 02/25/2010)

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Review 20 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Every single dish that we ordered was not just great, but outstanding. We only wished that there were more than two of us so that we could taste more of the items on the menu! On top of that, our server was perfect - knowledgeable, clever, there when we needed him, gone when we didnt! Will definitely return the next time in Philadelphia."

Special Features: fit for foodies

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 02/17/2010

(review submitted 02/24/2010)

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Review 21 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"This was my second trip to Matyson and again, I have nothing but wonderful things to say. The dinner was delicious, extremely flavorful and beautifully presented. The dessert was to die for. For a holiday night it was busy but they maintained the ambiance (as opposed to places I've been before that just pack as many people in as possible). Finally, our server was fabulous. He was attentive, had great recommendations and a lovely personality - without lingering too much. It was a perfect evening and we will continue going back for sure."

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

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 02/13/2010

(review submitted 02/24/2010)

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Review 22 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"What an amazing place! Food is outstanding! Will be back."

Special Features: fit for foodies

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 02/19/2010

(review submitted 02/20/2010)

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Review 23 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"the food was great!
our waiter was a little over attentive and kept coming to see if we decided on our order too many times. otherwise we had a positive experience."

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

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 02/12/2010

(review submitted 02/19/2010)

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Review 24 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"This is my second time going to Matyson and their tuna tartar is one of the most fantastic things I've ever had! I had the arctic char again, and my date had one of the specials, the porkchops, and we both enjoyed our entrees. I think Matyson offers a wide variety of different foods, and their specials for the day always sound delicious. I would definitely recommend going to Matyson if not just for a quick bite of their tuna tartar!"

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

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 02/12/2010

(review submitted 02/14/2010)

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Review 25 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"This is our favourite BYO in Philly. The tasting menu was outstanding this week. (They will e-mail you their weekly tasting menus ahead of time.) We are never disappointed at this restaurant--the food and service is always excellent."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 02/08/2010

(review submitted 02/10/2010)

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Review 26 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Matyson never fails to please. The food is always imaginative and delicious."

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

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 02/01/2010

(review submitted 02/07/2010)

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Review 27 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Every time I go to Matyson I forget why I don't come more often. Everything is phenominal - I mean everything. The food is exquisite, and the service very friendly and attentive without being intrusive. I highly recommend the Fois Gras, Lamb belly, Pork chop and sea scallops. And you won't be disappointed by the desserts - but go for the coconut cream pie!"

Special Features: fit for foodies

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/30/2010

(review submitted 02/02/2010)

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Review 28 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Very lovely for 4 coming in to Phil for the weekend. Cozy but urban."

Special Features: fit for foodies

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/29/2010

(review submitted 02/01/2010)

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Review 29 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Had a wonderful dinner at Matyson. The atomosphere was lovely, the service attentive and the food delicious. Can't wait to go back."

Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/29/2010

(review submitted 01/31/2010)

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Review 30 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"The tuna tartare appetizer is delicious!!!"

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

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/28/2010

(review submitted 01/30/2010)

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Review 31 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Good)

"The food was very good. I have eaten there several times. A consistent drawback is that the restaurant is very loud when seated to capacity. It was difficult to hear my lunch date across a two setaed table. During this visit, our server did not seem happy and rarely smiled - seemed to be annoyed about something...hopefully not us. Service in the past has been excecllent and friendly."

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/27/2010

(review submitted 01/29/2010)

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Review 32 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"We went to Matyson for our one year anniversary. The food was amazing, the wait staff were very professional and the overall experience made for a great evening. Matyson really managed to bring out many different flavors in the food. The waiter was very knowledgeable of what was in the food and described what we would expect to taste very well. Made for easy decisions!"

Special Features: romantic

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/25/2010

(review submitted 01/27/2010)

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Review 33 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"We had an amazing dinner at Matyson and would highly reccomend it to anyone. The food was absolutely delicious....I had the scallops! The service was very good and friendly. I love the fact that it is BYO b/c it adds to the experience. You get to enjoy wine that you truly like, with equally tasty food.
The only downside is that the restaurant is rather small. If you don't like sitting very close to the person next you then this is not the place for you. Otherwise you are in for a real treat!!"

Special Features: fit for foodies

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/23/2010

(review submitted 01/26/2010)

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Review 34 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Much improved from my visit last year. Service on the recessive side, but better that than obstrusive. Lamb belly was a little gristly (nothing like its pork cousin). Sturgeon was excellent, mildly smoked and sauteed."

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/18/2010

(review submitted 01/26/2010)

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Review 35 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"The food is consistently delicious, well presented and unique. We love this place and as much as we try to expand out and try new places, we so often decide to just go where we know we won't be disappointed. Great staff as well."

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

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Outstanding)
Service		(Outstanding)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/22/2010

(review submitted 01/24/2010)

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Review 36 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"The food and the service were very good. My dining partner ordered the pork chops and he exclaimed that was the best pork chop he ever had. I ordered the appetizer special (empanada with fruit relish) and tile fish for the entree. Both were creative and well executed dishes. We would go back next time we were in Philadelphia."

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

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/16/2010

(review submitted 01/24/2010)

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Review 37 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Outstanding. It's a toss-up as to giving it four stars or five. Everything about the food, from the tasting menu to the regular menu was interesting, excellent and fairly priced."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/21/2010

(review submitted 01/23/2010)

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Review 38 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"My dining partner was late and rather than ignoring me until my partner showed up the waite staff engaged me in conversation and brought me bread. I love that Matyson is a BYOB - everyone there was taking advantage of it. The food was perfectly decribed by the menu and it lived up to the description. There was an emphasis on entrails in the appetizers but on to more common fare for the entrees - lamb, chicken, fish. Everything was piping hot ( great on a cold night) and tasty. The fish was cooked to perfection and the lamb was tender. Desserts were top notch and made in the kitchen. Worth your time and money. Ambience was parred down but sophisticated."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/21/2010

(review submitted 01/23/2010)

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Review 39 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Our latest visit to Matyson was one of a long string of fabulous experiences with this restaurant. Innovative combinations, unusual preparations and exceptional saucing are consistent there. Never disappoints especially the "tasting" menu items."

Special Features: fit for foodies

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/21/2010

(review submitted 01/23/2010)

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Review 40 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Fair)

"What a shame that this was our choice for New Years Eve ! Parsnip soup and the oysters on the half shell with pommegranate were memorable. The foie gras was horrid with its' greasy sweet pumpkin bread accent. The sweet breads, always a "must get" for me whereever I am, were the WORST that I have ever had. They were both VERY overcooked and VERY over-floured, I never knew that sweetbreads could become so leaden. The much bally-hooed COCONUT cream pie was another let down THERE WAS NO COCONUT (just a sprinkle on the whipped creme.) It was an was much closer to a Boston Creme pie.
There is no need for me to return, although the ambiance and service were wonderful."

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/31/2009

(review submitted 01/22/2010)

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Review 41 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Love, love, love Matyson! Their tasting menus are incredible and quite reasonable for the quality of the ingredients and the amount of courses offered. They change weekly, so you can go back to be pleasantly surprised every time. Service is amazing - always very nice and helpful with the menu but never intrusive. We will be going back again and again!"

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

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/06/2010

(review submitted 01/19/2010)

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Review 42 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Great meal as usual. Interesting dishes, well-prepared, nice variety. Always worth going back to."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/16/2010

(review submitted 01/18/2010)

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Review 43 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"We had a lovely meal at Matyson's -- as usual -- the food is magnificent. But how about this? We arrived on time for our 7pm reservation. We ordered soup and entrees, and we thoroughly enjoyed both. Then at 8:15, a server came over to let us know that they had another reservation coming in, and that they would need our table. (The idea being that they wanted us to settle the bill and leave.) Ugh! I truly hate being rushed through a meal, especially one that is obviously meant to be savored. To be fair, I've never felt rushed there before. But still, isn't there some other way of managing reservations besides hustling people out the door? What if we had decided to stay for coffee and dessert?"

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/15/2010

(review submitted 01/17/2010)

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Review 44 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"This was our first time dining at the Matyson and it was fantastic. Our server Meredith was friendly, professional and very well versed on the menu. The food was outstanding and the pace of the serving perfect. Overall, this was the most satisfying dining experience we have had in months."

Special Features: fit for foodies

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/13/2010

(review submitted 01/14/2010)

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Review 45 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Great food, great service at this BYOB, once you got past the attitude from the hostess. But do not let her get in the way of an very nice experience."

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/12/2010

(review submitted 01/14/2010)

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Review 46 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"We are regulars so this past weekend was a surprise. The food came out in fits and starts - we would only get 2 of 4 dishes and the other 2 came out 5 or 10 minutes later. Still a favorite. Still amazing food."

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

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/09/2010

(review submitted 01/13/2010)

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Review 47 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Met friends at Matyson on a cold saturday night. We had never been there and were very impressed especially with the food. Highlights were the foi gras, sweetbreads, octopus, veal cheeks & black bass. Each dish was individually distinct with it's own aura. The fun part was sharing and then talking about coming back and trying something different. Serice was friendly, efficent and non-obtrusive. We were equally impressed with the deserts. The only suggestion I would make is a cheese course would have been nice for those of us who aren't sweet eaters. Thank you for a wonderful culinary experience."

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

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/09/2010

(review submitted 01/11/2010)

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Review 48 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Good)

"The food was wonderful as usual. However, we had to wait a very long time to be served our first course - soup. Given that we were on our "lunch hour" this was a bit of a problem. Usually I go to Matyson for dinner and am fine with sipping wine while waiting for food if necessary - however I expect a different level of service during business day lunches.

Of course I will be back...I love this place and love the food...just a one-off bad day I hope..."

Special Features: fit for foodies, great for lunch

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/06/2010

(review submitted 01/08/2010)

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Review 49 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Matyson is as it always was. Delicious food and terrific, attentive and friendly service. Have loved this place for years."

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

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/06/2010

(review submitted 01/08/2010)

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Review 50 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Been going there since the first year they opened, i absolutely love it. Ben has done a great job stepping up as executive chef. Keep up the great work guys"

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/04/2010

(review submitted 01/06/2010)

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Review 51 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Food was delicious. Lemon-lime tart was superb. Baby rock octopus and arugula salad were also wonderful."

Special Features: fit for foodies

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/02/2010

(review submitted 01/04/2010)

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Review 52 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Poor)

"We have visited Matyson regularly since it opened. Sometimes the food is excellent, but the service consistently is substandard. Problems typically begin with the rude and affected hostesses and extend through an inattentive wait staff. On our most recent visit the meals were mundane at best. Service was exceptionally poor. And as we finished coffee our group was asked to leave as they had another party waiting for the table; we had a 6 PM reservation and were told to leave at 8 PM. We have dined in virtually every exclusive restaurant in Philadelphia and Paris, but never have I been asked to immediately surrender a table for the next party; maybe suggest that they would need the table shortly? This was our last visit to Matyson."

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/30/2009

(review submitted 01/01/2010)

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Review 53 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"We had made a reservation weeks in advance for a celebratory dinner, but when we showed up a few minutes early with several bottles of wine in tow, we had to wait 35 minutes after our reservation before we were seated. In this time, no one asked if we would like our bottles of champagne and white wine chilled while we waited. The hostess was astonishingly rude to several members of our party, and we had to carry our coats over to her after we were seated in order to check them. Once seated, the night improved, as the back of the house yet again saved the front of the house. Our food, as always, was incredibly delicious! So my praise and my complaint about Matyson remain the same: absolutely amazing food, but such disappointing service!"

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

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/30/2009

(review submitted 01/01/2010)

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Review 54 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Always a pleasure. Still innovative, fresh and fantastic food."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/18/2009

(review submitted 01/01/2010)

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Review 55 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Outstanding food in a cozy setting. BYOB - no corkage fee - keeps overall cost quite reasonable."

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/30/2009

(review submitted 01/01/2010)

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Review 56 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Excellent food and very reasonable for the quality. A first class experience, as a BYOB, I don't know how they make any money."

Special Features: fit for foodies, hot spot

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/29/2009

(review submitted 12/31/2009)

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Review 57 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Wonderful meal! This was our first time to Matyson and we will definitely be back."

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

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/29/2009

(review submitted 12/31/2009)

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Review 58 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"We enjoyed our dinner very much but I was surprised and disappointed that there was no tasting menu the night we went and that in numerous email & telephone exchanges no one had mentioned it was not available. Since it is one of the restaurant's main features we might have decided to postpone our visit."

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/28/2009

(review submitted 12/30/2009)

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Review 59 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Had a great meal at Matyson. It was romantic when we first walked in, dark & cozy from a cold winter's night. Our waiter was very friendly in helping with menu selections. As the restaurant filled up, the tables are tight and it got noisy. No music on that I recalled. The menu was limited, but we ordered the tuna tartar appetizer, and for entrees, I order the japanese sea bass and my boyfriend ordered the filet. The flavors were creative and super yummy! we never felt rushed and enjoyed the dinner thoroughly. The best was the desseert - chocolate peppermint ice cream bomb. OMG. highly recommended, in fact i would go back just for that. Overall, great experience. one of my favorites in the city and i've eaten out a lot!"

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/28/2009

(review submitted 12/30/2009)

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Review 60 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Matyson is our consistent favorite in the Philadelphia BYO scene. Food offers an interesting foil to the old wines in our cellar; the combination produces a high-end experience for a fraction of the cost of a NYC restaurant."

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

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/28/2009

(review submitted 12/30/2009)

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Review 61 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Matyson lived up to all the good reports I had heard from friends. The food was delicious and I always enjoy a high quality BYOB so that I can bring my own choice of wine and let the restaurant concentrate on the food. Excellent!"

Special Features: fit for foodies

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/21/2009

(review submitted 12/23/2009)

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Review 62 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"I went to Matyson 2 years ago when I arrived in Philadelphia from France and found it very good.
I had dinner there again last Monday. Having now experienced many restaurants in Philadelphia and some in NY I realized how good Matyson is. The food is incredibly good and refined. As you can bring your own wine it is also excellent value for money. The only reserve I would put on this place is the service which would be OK if this was a diner but is no match for what you have in your plate."

Special Features: fit for foodies

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/21/2009

(review submitted 12/23/2009)

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Review 63 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Outstanding--as always!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/17/2009

(review submitted 12/19/2009)

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Review 64 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Lunch was wonderful. Menu selections were very varied and appealing. Service as excellent! Presentation of the food was beautiful. Not too noisy considering it was totally full at lunch. Have been here several times for lunch which has been consistently excellent. Would come here for dinner if the dinner menu were as varied as the lunch menu."

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

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/10/2009

(review submitted 12/18/2009)

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Review 65 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Good)

"Disappointing! Not nearly as good as in the past. Perhaps we should have ordered the tasting menu!"

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

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/16/2009

(review submitted 12/18/2009)

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Review 66 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Good)

"Food was good, service was excellent, but the WOW factor is gone. This may be driven by the comparisons I am making with other meals I've had other places or prepared myself."

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/12/2009

(review submitted 12/14/2009)

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Review 67 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Delicious! Would definitely go back again. Our waitress was extremely knowledgeable about the menu and offered great recommendations."

Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/12/2009

(review submitted 12/14/2009)

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Review 68 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Always excellent and very enjoyable."

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/10/2009

(review submitted 12/13/2009)

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Review 69 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"The food is consistently excellent at a very reasonable price. BYOB."

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

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 11/30/2009

(review submitted 12/11/2009)

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Review 70 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Good)

"Great meal as usual however the hostess/waiter person who seated our party was extremely rude. The number of our party changed from 2 to 3 because one of our colleague was stuck in Philadelphia due to severe weather conditions in Chicago his flight was canceled. So it was totally unplanned. The attitude of the hostess/waiter was one of inconvenience and we were told we'd have to vacate the table by a specific time for the next guest. Not a good first impression of Matyson for my out of town colleagues of Philadelphia hospitality."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/09/2009

(review submitted 12/11/2009)

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Review 71 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"The food at Matyson is always wonderful. The baby octapus --- not to be missed. The noise level borders on overwhelming. The service is efficient and not intrusive. I go to Mayson primarily for the food, an excellent kitchen."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/09/2009

(review submitted 12/11/2009)

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Review 72 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"After so many years, the food continues to be the main draw at Matyson. Service lacks warmth (and panache), and the room is way too tight and frenetic, but the quality of the ingredients and constantly-changing menu make for a compelling meal. One doesn't necessarily dine well at Matyson, but eating here is consistently pure bliss."

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

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 11/21/2009

(review submitted 12/06/2009)

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Review 73 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Awesome food and great service - can't beat it! Food is inspired and unique."

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

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 11/20/2009

(review submitted 12/06/2009)

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Review 74 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Matyson is a wonderful restaurant. Don't miss it!"

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

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/03/2009

(review submitted 12/05/2009)

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Review 75 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"What a find! For our first visit to Matyson we had the chefs tasting menu as we believe this is a good way to get a feel for the capabilities of a chef. We were not disappointed! The portions were appropriately reduced so that we were able to eat everything without feeling miserably full. Each course was beautifully prepared and presented and the flavors were fresh and interesting. The moraccan lamb chop was probably the best lamb of our lives, and we have eaten lots of lamb! The staff was all friendly and well informed. We highly recommend this delightful BYO."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/01/2009

(review submitted 12/05/2009)

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Review 76 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"I have eaten at Matyson three times now and have loved it each time. This last time I went for the tasting menu and it was really something special. I will be back again and again."

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

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 11/18/2009

(review submitted 12/05/2009)

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Review 77 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Food is of very high quality. The mushroom soup was the best I have ever eaten. Meat (beef shortribs) was a little tough and stringy, but tasty. Lamb was cooked just right but a little short on flavor. Dessert and coffee fabulous."

Special Features: fit for foodies

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 11/20/2009

(review submitted 11/22/2009)

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Review 78 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"I love Matyson and have eaten there a lot. One of its biggest attractions is that it is a BYO. It would be rather expensive if we had to buy wine at the restaurant mark-up price to match the food there. But we can bring our own and that makes us want to eat there again and again. Delicious, creative, just fabulous."

Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 11/19/2009

(review submitted 11/21/2009)

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Review 79 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Food is always expertly prepared and the service is attentive and unpretentious. Love this place! One of my favorite BYOB's"

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

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 11/19/2009

(review submitted 11/21/2009)

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Review 80 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Fair)

"We were not impressed with the food served this evening. The short ribs were striny, several dishes were prepared with sausage and we all felt it didn't add positively to the presentation. We had to request the lighting be turned up so we could read the menu. We all decided we probably would not go back."

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 11/18/2009

(review submitted 11/20/2009)

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Review 81 for Matyson

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"The tasting menu was terrific and our friendly server enhanced the whole experience."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem

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

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 11/18/2009

(review submitted 11/20/2009)

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Ratings-Only Reviews for Matyson

Based on the average of (150) ratings-only reviews

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

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

Restaurant Reviews for Matyson

Matyson Reviews List

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