"This was our first visit to The Garrison, and we certainly will not be returning. We decided to try the restaurant during Charlotte's "Restaurant Week," a time we typically enjoy exploring new dining options. Unfortunately, our experience at The Garrison fell short of expectations.
To begin with, their reservation policy was rather excessive. We were required to provide our credit card to secure a booking, with a hefty $25 fee for any cancellations made within 24 hours. Given this stringent policy, we anticipated a top-notch dining experience.
Upon arrival, we were seated near the bar, which occupies almost half of the restaurant's first floor. The noise level was quite high, making it difficult to have a conversation. We inquired about moving to a table on the second floor, only to be informed that it was even noisier up there as well, so we decided to stay where we were.
We started with two Old Fashioneds, but when our waitress returned, we proceeded to order our dinners from the Restaurant Week menu, which we had reviewed online. At $45 per person—$10 more than the standard $35 offered by most other participating restaurants—we expected a delightful meal. We chose the “Dirty Gamecock” chicken and scallops, along with an appetizer and dessert.
To our disappointment, the Old Fashioneds were weak and served in small glasses filled mostly with a large ice cube. For $14 each, we anticipated something much better. The appetizers were decent but nothing memorable.
When our main courses arrived, we were taken aback. My wife’s scallop dish featured just three scallops on a small serving of risotto, while my chicken consisted of only a leg and thigh, not the half chicken described on the menu. With a total bill of $150 including tip, this was one of the most lackluster dinners we've experienced in quite some time.
It seems that some restaurants in Charlotte alter portion sizes during Restaurant Week. If that’s the case here, it’s truly disappointing. Regardless, we won't be returning, and I cannot recommend The Garrison, as their food and service do not align with the prices they charge."
