I have been trying to get into this restaurant for about 6 months now. I have read various positive reviews from both Craig Leban and Chowhound. Overall, these reviews were positive.
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Wow, what great hopes I had. Rae Restaurant had such superb reviews but we hardly enjoyed the meals that these folks did.

The occasion was my mothers Birthday we had looked forward to showing her a good time. It just was not to be. We sat down and were quickly served bread and butter. We quickly dug in because we were quite hungry.
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We decided to try this restaurant with another couple during Philadelphia’s Restaurant Week. This is a great deal if you want to try a new, possibly expensive restaurant for a fixed amount of money. The menu selection was pretty good, but not great. There was about 4 of each, appetizer and main course and 2 deserts. I chose the she-crab soup for a starter, the grouper for the main and a chocolate cake for desert.
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Well, another year, another birthday celebration. As my brother and I have gotten older, we have been relegated to a combined birthday celebration dinner out. This year, it was at McCormick & Schmick’s. Overall, it was not a bad meal, just not a great meal and certainly not worthy of the price. The highlight of the visit was the semi-private space you are given for celebrations or parties. They are upstairs and you are free to be load and bring gifts, with no concern of disturbing any other guests.
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Overall, I think we had an alright meal. Nothing to write home (or write on the web) about, but it was fine. The cheese steak spring roll appetizer was the best part of the meal, it was very good. A bit pricey ($8 for two rolls) but I enjoyed it anyway.

My meal was on special, the red snapper filet. It was cooked fine, but generally boring to taste. I also ordered a side of macaroni and cheese, which is usually excellent at a restaurant. This mac and cheese was not creamy enough for my taste and I was unimpressed.

I had dinner with my brother, his girlfriend and my girlfriend. My brother seemed to really enjoy his meal of Southern Chicken and Ribs, but then again, he’ll eat just about anything.

My GF had the short ribs, which were OK, I tried them and they were good, but again, nothing special.

For desert we shared the fried PB & J, which was not impressive. It pretty much tasted like a PB & J quickly fried in a buttered pan.

Overall, the meal was OK, the beer was cheap (they have a 10 PM to 12 AM late night happy hour) and the conversation was good – I probably won’t be back.

On a side note, this is my first trip back to Northern Liberties in about 2 years and what a difference. It reminds me of New York City, it was a lot going for it and if the influx of restaurants, bars and young people continue, it will certainly be a great place for meals and fun.