River House at Odette's

Fabiola and Logan made our birthday celebration run smoothly and took so much stress off our hands. Fabiola helped us organize the event, suggested a flower shop and food to start with, and made sure the cake delivery and guest parking were handled. She was professional, efficient, and pleasant to talk to. Logan was our main waiter and took care of everything, from the bouquets and drinks to the timing of the food and presenting the cake. He was kind, polite, professional, and helpful. His partner helped too, though I’m sorry I can’t remember his name. We had a private room overlooking the river, with a fireplace and a door to a balcony where we took pictures. The food was delicious, and our guests seemed to enjoy it. I’m very grateful to the staff for making the evening go so well.

My friends and I try to have aged steak once a year. Our usual place in Newtown closed, so we gave Odettes Steakhouse in new hope, PA a try for the first time. The hotel lobby was warm and comfortable, and we were seated quickly for our reservation. The menu is large and varied, though to me it leans more toward American food than a true steakhouse. It offers “prime stakes,” including a 42 oz Tomahawk Rib Eye and a 32 oz Porterhouse for two, each with a couple of sides and sauces. Our server was sharp, professional, and knowledgeable. The bacon appetizer and calamari were pretty good and came out hot and quickly. She recommended a nice Pinot Noir and checked on us often. Before dinner we had a tasty gin martini at the bar, which was crowded for a holiday Thursday. There was barely room to stand, and we felt on top of diners at nearby tables. The lounge couches and chairs were occupied. The Porterhouse for two was the main disappointment. I ordered mine medium, but the filet mignon side was barely enough for two, more like a bite each. We kept coming back to that during dinner. I’d expect the filet side of a Porterhouse for two to be 8-10 ounces. The New York strip side was a little underseasoned and overcooked, and the steak costs about $125. I don’t think they should offer these prime cuts; we won’t return for steak, though the place could work as a regular American restaurant. Parking was another hassle. You have to drive underground and wait for the valet. On a busy night it took about 15 minutes to hand over our keys, then at least 20-25 minutes to get the car back. The atmosphere is nice, with tables for two to twelve. There are private rooms off to the side near the bathrooms, so we had to walk past private parties to reach the men’s room, which was a little odd but no big deal. I imagine eating on the deck overlooking the river would be quite nice in summer or during the day.

This time Alan served our birthday group of ten, and he was excellent. He seemed to handle nearly everything himself, keeping things on schedule while remaining attentive, polite, and professional. The food was fresh and delicious, especially the seafood, so that was an easy five stars. The cocktails were the one letdown for me, all too sweet, around a 3 or 4. The atmosphere was great as usual, with a beautiful view and clean surroundings. I’ve been here several times, and the server can really make a difference.

My husband and I went to River House at Odette’s for a fall weekend away, and it was incredible. We had a wonderful dinner at Odette’s restaurant. The whole evening was a treat, from the cocktails through dessert. We’re already looking forward to coming back.