A Review of the Oakwood Club Restaurant : In Dayton Ohio

I am not a professional restaurant critic. In fact, I rarely eat out (at least not where a red and yellow clown is involved). 'Fine-dining' isn't a usual phrase in my daily (or yearly) life. Luckily, I don't have to be a restaurant connoisseur to recognize an outstanding experience.

For our 10th anniversary celebration, my husband and I made dinner reservations at The Oakwood Club in suburban Dayton, Ohio. The restaurant is located on a festive-looking side street off of Dorothy Lane. Upon entering, you are greeted with a sign informing you that "Proper Attire is Required" with the meaning that while formal evening gowns and tuxedoes are not expected-don't assume you'll be admitted in your holey jeans and greasy work shirt, or your teeny-tiny shorts and tank top with sandals. While I'm not one for "snootiness" (by the way, my outfit looked nice, but was not new and cost no more than $50 total, shoes included-so it can be done!), I can appreciate the restaurant's attempt to keep the dining atmosphere pleasant for everyone.

Once you check your coat, you will be led to your table. Since we had reservations (they only take them on certain days of the week), we were able to be immediately seated. If you are so inclined the restaurant includes a separate bar. The restaurant is not too large and not too small. Walking through the dimly-lit, sheltered dining room of jubilant people, you are greeted by many pieces of artwork, wooden accents, and warm-colored d�cor. Though it is not an Italian establishment, you are reminded of an old world-type setting. The restaurant feels clean and the wait-staff are friendly, knowledgeable, and laid-back.

The Oakwood Club carries a large wine selection ranging from the most expensive to the affordably-priced. We enjoyed a half-bottle of a nice champagne to celebrate our marriage. We declined an appetizer, but our salads and bread arrived in a timely manner. By this time, the atmosphere and the glass of champagne have worked their relaxing magic. So, the first taste of the perfectly seasoned bread and mixed salad is enough to create an out-of-body experience!

Our meal came at just the right time-not too early (while still full from the salad) and not too late (starving hungry). I ordered the "Ship & Shore" dinner, which consisted of a small filet mignon and a decent-sized lobster tail. I found it charming that the dipping butter was kept warm by placement in a metal dish over a tea light candle. I chose seasoned mashed red potatoes and seasoned, cooked cauliflower as my sides (they have many choices in side dishes). My husband chose a larger filet mignon and loaded baked potato. The Oakwood Club's menu contains a large variety of gourmet items, including seafood, pasta, steak, chicken, salads, vegetables and many others.

The actual meal was heavenly. Everything from the meat to the potatoes was perfectly prepared and seasoned. The sauces were excellent. In fact, there was nothing about the meal that wasn't absolutely fantastic. The food almost literally melted in your mouth. Unfortunately, we were too full to order dessert, but from what was offered, I know it would have been just as delicious as the main course.

In short, neither my husband nor I have had a better meal in our entire lives. The Oakwood Club gets five stars and is highly recommended. While it is a bit more expensive than most people can pay for on a regular basis, the excellent chefs, food, and atmosphere are worth every penny. It is a great place to celebrate an anniversary, propose to your significant other, take your mother out for a special Mother's Day dinner, treat your prom date, or basically any excuse you can think of to partake of a terrific meal!

The Oakwood Club is located at 2414 Far Hills Avenue (Dayton/Oakwood, Ohio) off of Dorothy Lane. Their phone number is (937) 293-6973.
Mon-Thurs: 4 pm to Midnight
Fri & Sat: 4 pm to 1 am
Closed Sunday
Reservations are recommended.