Holy cow this is probably my new favorite restaurant. The prices are a little up there ($85 for two) however the food is phenomenal. The sea bass is out of this world. I was a little disappointed in the salmon because it was served cold and I'm not huge on cold fish but it was still pretty tasty! We got macaroni and cheese and asparagus for our sides and both were delicious. At that time we definitely could have eaten more but with two beers on top of that we decided to just get dessert and not over stuff ourselves. We ordered the strawberry shortcake and the chef also sent us out the chocolate truffles. I don't think my taste buds have ever exploded more! I'm craving the truffles from just writing about them haha! They had a decent beer selection and a long wine list but of course they were out of the wine I wanted (I feel like this always happens to me) so we stuck with beer. The service was a little slow even with the restaurant only being about half full on a Saturday but overall I was almost as pleased as my taste buds. We will definitely be returning soon!
(4)
Heather B.
My favorite restaurant in this area, by far. The new look and feel is awesome! I took my mom here last night and we chose the baked brie, crab cakes, and pork bites. Everything was delicious! Service was great. I always look forward to getting the waiter they have, but we had Brandy last night and she was great too. I have never been disappointed by Temper Grille! Keep up the great work...your restaurant rocks!
(5)
M. G.
Wow, fabulous food. Ate here once and tried many dishes. All choices were tasty and unique. I recommend this place. The booths (newly remodeled) are too deep for the height of the tables so your chin is practically rests on the table. Ask for a table with chairs. Don't go with too large of a group. They can't accommodate you comfortably. We had 6 and were cramped. The glare form the setting sun can make it so you squint and can't see those across the booth from you. Perhaps they will get some window coverings or tinting to fix this problem.
(5)
Linsey W.
This is my favorite place in Michiana! The shareable plates allow you to try multiple dishes. I've never had a bad experience here and love how frequently new items are offered as the seasons allow. Also, they frequently offer a Groupon to allow you to get your feet wet at a discounted price. I cannot recommend highly enough! The duck bites and strawberry shortcake are always a must!
(5)
Michaele L.
This place is great! The menu has always offered great options, definitely worth trying many things. I recently ordered the baked Brie and it was delicious! The atmosphere is pretty cool as well, with the wine cork wall and the wine bottle overhead lamp on the bar. One of the best things about this place is they often have a Groupon deal of $15 for $30. With such a selection of wines, beers, and tapas, your bill can get pricey. So it does make it nice to have the Groupon deal.
(4)
Shirley B.
Ok, I've given this restaurant several chances. The food is good but it appears to be slipping. Feels like some corner cutting is taking place. You have to order a lot to come away satisfied and then it gets pretty pricey. Plus, fine dining is more than just food. The atmosphere is bad, starting with the tables right in front of the doors, to the booths with seats that feel like you're sitting on wooden planks, to the bar and bathroom which both look like they are fresh out of a brothel. Cross your fingers that you'll get a high top seat, as it's away from the door and much more comfortable than the other options. And, at a high top your feet are off the cement floor which will chill you to the bone in the winter. While I enjoy the salad, duck bites, and Mac and cheese, I think I'm done with this place. There are better options which are also close to Granger like Yesterday's, Ruth's Chris, and my new favorite Rocky River(or some name like that). Ok, I wasn't going to go there, but I see others have and I feel it needs to be said: the chef/owner needs to pull himself together and take a few courses on customer service. He is NOT doing us a huge favor by slinging food and when there is a problem with the food(and it doesn't happen often) he comes unglued. I'm not sure if he's watched a few too many episodes of Hell's Kitchen or if that's just how he is, but when he comes out of the kitchen, the whole mood in the dining room changes for the worst. He needs a manager who has the authority to deal with customer issues and he should just stay in the kitchen.
(2)
Renee S.
Time and time again, Temper Grille never disappoints us. Whether we dine in or meet them at the local chili cook off (who my son kept going back for more) they are great. Sean has this down and his staff is top notch. Love the chilean sea bass, lamb lollipops, mussels, mmmmm my mouth is watering now! You will spend a bit here, but its a meal that you will want more of. MMMMM.
(5)
Jose L.
Great place for tapas.
(5)
Christo L.
Great food, great service! Just the right place for those who like to have and try a variety of different well-made dishes.
(5)
Jp S.
This is a general review over every time I've been to Temper. It's never been disappointing. I think i've tried just about everything on the menu, and while I have my favorites (Steak Bites YES PLEASE) their is not a single item I wouldn't order again. Occasionally Sean will have a sushi night, and it's by far the best in town. His wine selection is 2nd to none. I go to many wine dinner's in town, and Temper's wine nights are the event of the month. No one puts on a better event than them. As I write this review I have started to think about the service. Going to one place many times you are bound to run into a lackluster night service wise, except at Temper. You are always treated like you own the place. I think it's a requirement that every server try everything on the menu, because never once have I heard, I haven't tried that but others say it's great. The staff is just as if not more top notch then the food.
(5)
Bonnie B.
Service was poor. Ignored by the bartenders & waitresses for nearly 10 minutes as they scurried past me. Not even an acknowledgment though I was sitting in the middle of others they were serving at the bar. New presentation - ruined the shrimp bites. Was encouraged to share my input with the owner/chef who shrugged me off rudely and said that he liked them. Well, he can buy his own crappy food and service as far as I'm concerned. Will never waste my money here again.
(1)
Amber P.
We love coming to Temper Grille for business dinners and date night. It has been hit or miss with service. We have a great time most of the time but we have had the same server twice, unfortunately on our anniversary and Valentine's Day, and we were ignored and never brought more wine. We love the food, especially the steak bites, brie en croute and mac and cheese. It is neat that the menu always changes, too!
(4)
Rob O.
By far, the best restaurant in the area. From the smoked pork belly tacos to the roasted red pepper & garbanzo bean soup -- the menu is so eclectic. I'm not one for writing reviews, but Temper deserves it. Must try if you are in the area. Everything on the menu is fantastic.
(5)
Janet Y.
My boyfriend and I LOVE this place! We have gone to the other downtown South Bend restaurants and Temper Grill is by far the best. It is a tapas - STYLE restaurant. It is not tapas. You do need reservations but bar seating is typically available. I can never decide on what to eat, so this place is perfect. I haven't tried anything I haven't liked. Their mac and cheese and steak bites are always great choices. The last few times our bill after taxes + tip with drinks, 5 plates and dessert was $120. This is now our go - to restaurant.
(5)
A K.
first of all, tapas is anything BUT slow and this place is dreadfully slow. For south bend area this place has decent food but quality/speed to price ratio is way off. I will probably not go back here again. But i suppose if you are looking for something different then it's worth to check it out for your self. Be warned you're in for hour and a half to two hours for a normal meal, so have some time on your hands.
(2)
Worthy T.
This is my second time going. They had me at the lamb pops when I was getting my groupoun. The lamb pops were amazing!! I love the mini steak chimmi's. The chimmichurri sauce complimented very well with the steak and avocado. The steak bites were my weakness, I didn't want to share. We asked for the bites to be well done and to my surprise the steak wasn't dry but tender and juicy. It was the best steak I've ever had in a long time! I wish I had it with the macaroni and cheese. The customer service was great! It's a great place to go for some good tapas !!!
(5)
Jimmy W.
I've traveled the world, eaten in some of the best restaurants in France, Spain, Germany, Italy, etc., and I still call this one of the best places I've ever gone to. I cannot recommend this place enough. It's not cheap but it's well worth the cost.
(5)
Josh W.
The food was good but not worth the price. Especially when it's something you could make at home just as good. Our server was slow and didn't come to our table to see us very many times witch I personally didn't like. The place is very small and clumsy at times. I'm no chef but I have no doubt I could chop up some beef or pork, grill it real quick, throw some fancy sauce on it, put in a fancy bowl and sell it to you for 20 dollars. I've been here twice now and my first experience was the same. I wanted to give it another try to see if it was better and it was not.
(2)
Tom S.
Apparently I missed the memo that you need reservations. My spouse and I stopped in as we heard good things about this place from co-workers. Was a bit surprised by the night club feel and how small the place was. No one bothered to acknowledge us after we walked in so we started for a booth thinking maybe it was a seat yourself situation. That sure got the attention of the staff. The waitress ran over and actually blocked our path before we reached the booth asking if we had reservations. The place was half empty. We were a bit surprised and said no. She offered some seating at the bar but she was rude and had the attitude she didn't really want us to stay. No problem. We left and had a good laugh. Pretentious restaurant in a strip mall. Fabulous.
(1)
Brian E.
The best restaurant I have been to in the area. Much better than corndance. They were out of bacon wrapped dates which was disappointing but the we were there at 8:15 and the idea is to make fresh, delicious food so that type of thing happens. Let's put it this way, if a restaurant doesn't run out of something, they either throw it away or use it the next day (and I am anti both). The steak sammys were incredible. Normally I am super anti sauce on steak but the sauces, that one included, were fantastic. The duck bites were great as well.
(5)
Beth L.
I get the idea of sharing. We were looking forward to that, but the prices were ridiculous for what you got and food was mediocre at best. There are so many better places to go to in the area that we won't waste our time or money there again.
(1)
Kirill G.
The food was rather good, but even after making a representation we had to wait for 20 minutes to get sited.
(3)
Camden D.
First off, this place is NOT tapas. I was very excited when I heard there was a tapas restaurant that had opened in the area, I grew up eating Spanish Tapas food and miss it terribly! But it is not, it is tapas-STYLE! So once I got over that fact, I was ready to see what this tapas style restaurant had to offer and it turned out to be delicious!! We sat next to a couple that had clearly been there before and went with a few of their suggestions, which turned out to be awesome! We ended up ordering the Mini Steak Chimmis, Mac and Cheese (plain), asparagus, creamed corn, and hummus. All of which sounded good, but I didn't expect to be so blown away by those dishes! They were all really really great!! We also had the intention to keep ordering dishes, but after just those dishes our table of 4 was stuffed! We all had two beers and after splitting the bill by 4 our bill was $20.61..... Come on! Amazing! We did order mostly side dishes rather than the Main dishes which had a much higher price point, but it was plenty of food for us and I can't wait to go back and try many of the other items on the menu, but now I'm hooked on the ones I ordered last time! Overall it was a great experience! But a few notes to know for first timers- you do need reservations, it will look closed as you walk up to the building, there is no hostess stand and you will feel awkward just walking into the middle of the dining room, it is terribly quiet in there (they really need SOME music playing), but just keep going!!! It's worth it and it's delicious!
(5)
Rich D.
Delicious meal for our anniversary. Highly recommend the duck bites and Sammies. Service was good. Would have gotten 5 stars but there was a hiccup that one of our plates was lost in the shuffle. Overall, we would go back in a heartbeat. Had a very enjoyable meal FYI, I wouldn't ding the food or server for this but upon asking for iced tea, found out it was canned. Passed on that. Not too much there for a non beer/wine drinker. Not a negative, just be informed
(4)
Epicureans U.
I don't count people who do only do two reviews and rip a place to pieces as a quality review. As the event coordinator for Granger Restaurant Week. All menus are marked clearly. Here is what the Temper Grille menu has on it. For Example: Choose One Starches, Veggies and More Mac & Cheese Add Pork Belly $5 Add Roasted Peppers $2 Add Lobster Knuckle Meat $15 Add Blackened Shrimp $8 IF it says ADD and there is a price next to it. IT WILL BE ON YOUR BILL. If you want the original mac and cheese...no additional price. It is unfortunate that some people take to Yelp to have their emotional moments instead of solving them at the restaurant. Temper Grille is a well established local tapas restaurant. People need to read their menus and not be upset when they miss an upgrade price. Taking it out on the owner is not really good conflict management and posting a questionable true review is not really QUALITY conflict management. and definitely poor customer service on the part of the customer.
(5)
Mary K.
TG is a tapas-style restaurant, definitely not a tapas restaurant. They serve only beer and wine, though good selections of both, actually way more than the limited food menu. The waitstaff seem to be the bar staff also, which slowed things down a bit. Delivery of food was problematic, at least at first. We were starving, so ordered some olive and nuts along with feta cheese to eat before other dinner items arrived. We never got the feta, and the olives and nuts came after the salad, which we didn't get until 40 minutes after we arrived (& the restaurant was not even 1/2 full at that point). All the other dishes arrived in quick succession, so we had three dishes that didn't really go together. Our waitress was very attentive to our food sensitivities, but forgot one item as a result of checking back and forth between the chef and us. Seems they could use one more waiter, as the hostess was hustling the whole night helping with drinks, bussing, and food delivery. Best item was duck leg - very generous portion, but only a tiny bit of the beet & fennel "salad" advertised with it. Duck fat potatoes were also very tasty, but a bit too much fat for the amount of potatoes. Black mussels with creamy tomato sauce were also quite good, but couldn't be altered for garlic sensitivity (came with garlic toast, and waitress didn't bring a non-garlic piece, which seemed easy enough to do). Chopped salad was tasty also, but a bit on the sweet side with candied almonds, mandarin oranges, strawberries, and dried cherries. Would have like more veggie options, which was expected since it's summer. Strawberry balsamic shortbread was yummy, but would have been better with fresh whipped cream and less of it. One of the biggest drawbacks to this restaurant is its ambiance, which is sorely lacking. The decor is dark and drab. We saw only one flower bouquet near the bar, and no candles on the table, which would have helped in the dark interior. The patio looks nice, but it looks out into a stripmall parking lot. We'll be back, but not as quickly as we thought we would after hearing about it.
(3)
Ruth G.
Everything at Temper Grille is phenomenal and if u have not tried the steak bits you have tooooo. My co-worker and best friend Elvern Cooks took me to Temper Grille for the first time and I am hooked. My husband and I enjoy the atmosphere and the food very much. My husband loves the duck bites too. Also the cream corn is out of this world and I have never been a cream corn person, but once you try this corn you too will be hooked.
(5)
Michael W.
Temper has a small dining room, and some of the seats have no back rests. The tables are small, which could present a problem if more than one tapas arrives simultaneously. I liked the lamb pops, lobster bites, and the hummus. I didn't care much for the expensive crab cakes. Prices seem high for the quality of the food. The service was very good.
(3)
Joshua B.
It's a quaint place with Fantastic food. My wife and I visit once a month. The smoked salmon with mac and cheese is great. The lamb pops are overrated. Small and not that tasty. The other menu items are worth trying.
(4)
David G.
Wonderful food and service but pricey -- it made me wish I was billing to a corporate account. A great place to come for a treat.
(5)
Shanna M.
I will start off by saying that our waitress was excellent, accommodating and gave great recommendations. With that being said I felt the restaurant was nothing special. The table we were seated at was extremely small especially considering the fact that we had several plates on our table. The food we ordered was only so-so and the selection available on the menu was nothing to talk about. I loved the idea of a Tapas restaurant in South Bend, especially considered the massive amount of chain restaurants we have here but I was expecting to be wowed by the food and left very disappointed.
(2)
Ike T.
My wife and I love this place. Dress is casual, and the restaurant is cozy. Items are made to be shared. We usually order 3-4 items on the menu and have tried about everything on the menu and they have not disappointed us. My wife's favorites are the duck and steak bites. I love the lamb pops and lobster bites.
(4)
Jen K.
Normally I don't go to places that yelling radio hosts recommend. This is an exception. No one yelling here, just time for chilling and sharing. Nice place, with a menu that keeps rotating but never gets worse. I also didn't have any slowness issues with service though I can see the place get too full. It would be nice if the place was less dark though, this nightclubbish feel doesn't fit tapas eating.
(4)
David J.
I shoot photographs for feature articles on Michiana's best restaurants and recently had the privilege of visiting Chef Sean Kelley's 'Temper Grill'. What a great experience! Simply put, I loved it! The staff was perfectly attentive, the setting was intimate and upscale, fabulous wines and Chef Sean paid personal attention to the perfection of each and every dish placed in front of us. I liked dishes that I didn't necessarily expect to like, and LOVED the one's I eagerly anticipated. Worth noting is the fact that the restaurant serves adults 21 and over ONLY, and the bar seems to be 'wine only'. Try a bottle of the Duckhorn Merlot! I've posted a few of the photos I took that evening, but the food was even better than it looked! I promise! As for value - truly one of the best investments you can make in a Michiana evening. NO QUESTION! I think you should go...
(5)
John F.
Dynamite! We loved our steak bites, lobster bites and arugula salad. The Greek cheese soaked in brandy and flamed table-side was delightful. Good selection of wine by the glass and wide selection of wine by the bottle. Looked like quite a beer list , too. We'll try to return tonight.
(5)
Kim D.
Love the food & change of menu!! Great date night place! The seating area is small, not meant for families. We usually wait for Groupon deals to come through before visiting. That way we can order more dishes!! Love how everything is to share and come sour when it's ready instead if all at once.
(5)
Sherry G.
Would never go back again. If you like very small portions, rude waitstaff and a totally pretentious place to eat, then this is the place for you. This is South Bend after all. Food was good, what there was of it. Very unconcerned owner/chef. Rude, insulting person. Felt very uncomfortable there eating alone on a weekend. Was ignored totally by my waitress and reported this to the owner. Waited four days to hear back from the owner. Never called. When he did call, accused me of trying to get something for free from him. I didn't want anything from him, because I had no intention of ever going back there. And to think I came out in a heavy snowstorm to eat there. I've lived in various major metropolitan areas around the country and this was the first time this has ever happened. Save your money and go to a restaurant that not only has good food, but gives reasonable portions and where they certainly appreciate your business!
(1)
Huyen L.
Delicious food- Get the NY Strip with the roasted red pepper sauce and the Ahi Tuna! If you can swing it, the lobster mac and cheese is melt in your mouth tasty! Make sure you go during Restaurant Week, too. The deal is unbeatable!
(5)
Cassie S.
We always go planning to try something new, but the steak bites and redskin potatoes are just too good to pass up. The spicy feta is also one if our favorites. Excellent service, amazing atmosphere, delicious food, there is often a groupon available. What's not to love!
(5)
Jennyfer N.
We came here recently with some family members to sample the dinner menu. I came with predominately meat/potato eaters so we ended up having to eat elsewhere afterwards because they were still hungry. I love the idea of tapas. It makes sense, You should sample a lot of different little things so that the dining experience can be fresh and your palate doesn't get tired of the usual meat and two veg dilemma. It's very similar to dim sum and other Asian style restaurants. However... Most of the food offered was pretty standard fare. And I'll just say it, 12 dollars for 6-8 bites of food is just not at all affordable on most people's budgets unless 1) you can subsist on little or 2) you have a good job that pays for that type of luxury. While I appreciate their aesthetic, it just wasn't...exciting. And I understand this dynamic. As an avid food enthusiast, I've paid ridiculous sums of money for exotic bites of food at sushi joints. I admit, it's a bit ridiculous but you're paying also for an experience, a new way at looking at something. Here...grilled steak? Pan seared pork? Cold sliced steak? It's dressing up what is ordinary fare. For my 12 bucks, I'd rather go to the grocery store, grab a pork tenderloin/ cut of filet mignon and sear it myself. Maybe I could get a potato out of that 12 dollars and call it a meal. But hey, that's the frugal side of me. Bottom line, if you sell it as "tapas" then I want to be excited about it. I just wasn't quite impressed with what we ordered. We got steak bites, pork bites, an order of Mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, a sliced steak chimichurri dish, and then my tomato mozzarella stack. The sea bass with mango wasn't even that exciting of a sell. Now...I will say, the tomato mozzarella stack was delicious. But then again, tomato, mozzarella, and balsamic has been a proven match for years. Not anything new to me. I supposed I expect too much from this and it may just be that this area doesn't have a whole lot of exposure to different dining styles and cuisines. But honestly, I wasn't that impressed. We went to Main Street Pub afterwards and had pulled pork nachos. WAY more exciting. And cheaper too.
(3)
Jason R.
Fantastic tapas spot! The menu is a bit on the short side, but everything we have ordered is excellent. After living in Chicago, I missed a good tapas restaurant. This definitely fits the need! Staff is friendly, accommodating, and easy going. The chocolate truffles are remarkable. Cozy, trendy atmosphere, that is very welcoming and casual.
(5)
Michele K.
While on vacation in Three Rivers we ventured to Temper where we enjoyed some of the best food we'd ever eaten. The waitstaff is so pleasent & knowledgeable about their many wines they have to offer. And the white sangria? Let's just say..... we tried to shake down Sean, the owner, for his recipe. The food came to our table in perfect staggered stages allowing us to share and enjoy so many delicious and unique flavors. I need to come back to try everything on that menu. I recommend you make the drive to try Temper Grille! And seriously. Save room for truffles.
(5)
Chelsea W.
The Temper Grille is a MUST when you're in the Notre Dame/South Bend area. Both my boyfriend and colleague agree that we have to stop when we're in town. I haven't had a bad thing on their menu, I love the atmosphere and the dining experience is fun overall.
(5)
Jill M.
I have to say that when it comes to dining out I have high expectations. I expect high quality food and REMARKABLE customer service. I do not mind paying for either. I received neither this weekend at Temper Grille. I also expect that when I register a complaint that I am treated with respect. I do not always expect to get my way, and I would never try and take advantage of local establishment. As a member of the customer service industry and nationwide trainer, I understand how to manage conflict and resolve situations without causing further damage. This establishment is in need of some serious customer service training. My friend and I happened to participate in a promotion for Granger Food Week. The menu had indicated that certain item we an upgrade and you would be charged extra. No big deal. We ordered one upgrade, enjoyed the meal for the most part (don't get the crab cakes...they were very fishy and mushy). When our bill came, I was shocked to see that we were charged an extra $15 dollars...the menu wasn't very clear - we misread it - completely our fault. I said that I didn't think we should have to pay for the upgrade because we didn't see the extra cost. In retrospect, I probably shouldn't have said anything...but I thought it was worth mentioning. Maybe other people could have been confused as well. Well, here's where it gets interesting. The owner came out with awful look on his face and says (in a horrible tone)..."what's the problem"? He was seething. (Just so you know, I was polite but direct...I wasn't causing some type of scene) He didn't say, how may I help you or I'm sorry for your misunderstanding, but instead..."what's the problem?" Then he proceeds to point to the menu and say...it says right here that this mac n cheese is extra. "Well, I guess I should just change my whole menu since you can't read it". He was insinuating that I was stupid and/or illiterate. I was completely in shock. The thing is...I would have and did pay the extra 15 dollars - OMG when you are dropping $50 on dinner it's not like it's a big deal. I guess I just wanted them to know that the menu wasn't clear. I have never in my life been treated so poorly. But I guess this establishment just doesn't care about customer service. I don't care how ridiculous your customers are...they are customers. They are paying your salary and keeping you in business. You should be kind. Kindness can make an upset customer with a misunderstanding see things differently. I will never set foot in this restaurant again and believe me...the food isn't worth the rude folks and cramped atmosphere. Take your business down to LaSalle Grill - the Tavern is amazing (oh, and they're nice to you there).
(1)
Amy H.
I frequent Temper Grille regularly and it never fails to impress. The restaurant is small, but comfortable and the service is always right on. The portion sizes are larger than typical tapas restaurants and reasonably priced. Some of our favorite menu items include the steak bites, mac and cheese, edamame and stuffed chicken. The soups and wraps are great for lunch. Chef Sean is always coming up with new creations - last night we had the sliders and the bite size blueberry cheesecakes for dessert and both were wonderful. If you haven't been, you need to go!
(5)
Mable A.
Food is great. Regardless of the service I'd never discount the great food. Seems most reviews including my own have one common denominator. The owner/chef should try and lighten up. You own a lovely restaurant with great food! Even great sake martins. That's pretty awesome. Anyone should be able to handle criticism on any level. Great food, I wouldn't allow a few complaints to rile you up. It's almost sad that something as small as an annoyingly rude owner can keep people from some really good dishes. But I guess it's not always fun to encounter a pouting adult.
(3)
Lynlee M.
Super good! My husband and I went on a Groupon and we will be back. The food is fresh and was obviously made with quality ingredients. The food came out fresh and nice and hot.
(5)
Jake R.
I went in to try Temper after reading so many great reviews. The restaurant was half full but no tables were available until 9....we were told. We were sent to the bar...no problem, but then dressed down by the goth-lipped bartender and for the next three minutes we were told what would be and how it would be. Then I read the top of the menu. I am not quoting exactly here but had I been able to gracefully take the menu with me, I would have so I could give it to you exactly. Don't like how long it takes? Too bad. Don't like our chipped dishes? Tough. Be nice to our servers. Deal with our attitude. You are lucky to be here. We really could care less about you or the effort you made to be here. We got up and left before drinks came and we wouldn't go back under any circumstances. This rudeness isn't schtick. It's bad business.
(1)
Sara H.
Tried it for the first time after purchasing a Groupon. I think it was a good place to go for a date night because of the ambience and the style of food; tapas. You are forced (in a good way) to share food and have conversation. There is not another restaurant around here like it. Our server was very good at recommending items for us to try since it was our first visit and we got the perfect amount. They also have an excellent beer and wine selection. My complaint is that Temper Grille, or maybe the owner, seem a bit pretentious. I think part of that is location. But the main reason I say that is because there is a disclaimer on the menu written by the owner and it basically says "This is my restaurant. I will serve you food when I want the way I want and you better not complain or do anything I don't like or you will be asked to leave. You need me, I don't need you". Maybe its not meant in the context I took it, but it was off-putting enough that it makes me not want to go back, even though there are other items I would like to try.
(3)
Lisa R.
Thrilled to say that the hubs and I continue to have amazing experiences here! Never fails to impress! Service is always spot on, not too rushed nor too slow. Excellent section of wines in all price ranges and haven't had a bad choice from the menu yet! We love that it's an "over 21 to enter" restaurant so we can have a great time reconnecting and dining with other adults always! Chef Sean really has a great thing going, hope he doesn't change a thing!
(5)
Jeremy V.
We've been to Temper Grille on many occasions, and have yet to be disappointed. After all these visits we've tried pretty much everything on the menu, plus whatever specials chef has going on at the time. The flaming cheese has to be one of my favorite things. I could eat five plates of that myself. But everything else from the lamb pops, chicken marsala, steak, tuna, pork, has all been just fantastic. Cooked properly, great flavor, and no real downside other than wishing you had twice as much on the plate. The waitstaff has been fantastic, fun, and friendly. They will joke with us at the table, etc. Last time we were there we had five people, and one of the the plates only came with four portions, but she went ahead made sure there were five portions so that we could all get a full piece. The only downside, if you can even call it that, is that it is tad pricey. So if you're a big eater looking to fill up on a 20 dollar meal, this place may not be for you. But it's perfect for a night out with a group of friends where you want to spend an evening and enjoy some good wine, good food, and try new things. Can't wait to go back yet again.
(5)
Allen M.
Damn, I wish they would open an outpost in Oak Park, Illinois. We were on a car trip and I found this place on the web. Really glad I did. The small plates were perfect for us. At home we each order an entre and take half of it home. We are OLD and have small appetites. When you go, do not miss the restrooms!
(5)
Kristin M.
I've been a semi-weekly regular at Temper for at least six months. On the positive side, the waitstaff has always been very friendly and accommodating. There was a group there tonight smoking cigars on the patio dining area. When someone at my table mentioned it to our server, she said that they were aware of the problem and would take care of it. The smokers moved approximately 2 feet away from the dining area, and no further action was taken - disappointing. We were interested in the cheese plate, but the menu described it as coming with "cured meats", which didn't interest my party. We asked if they would substitute all cheeses, and our server asked the chef, but returned to tell us that it couldn't be changed, but that the plate only included a "garnish" of meat. When it arrived, it was three different meats and three cheeses - clearly half meat and not a garnish. Our server smiled uncomfortably when we were disappointed. I understand if a substitution isn't allowed, but I wish we'd had the opportunity to order something different. Like Kristen M, I'm hoping tonight was a fluke, but it was a major disappointment. I tried to talk to the manager in a constructive way as we left, since the menu has changed fairly recently, but he told me I was wrong (the smokers moved 3 feet away and not two, there wasn't as much meat as I thought on that plate, etc.). I didn't want to argue with him, and he didn't want my feedback. I hope that the cigar crowd is a group of regulars who will bring lots of business to Temper, because I'm no longer recommending it to the South Bend visitors that I encounter at work. From now on, I'll send them to Corndance, Cafe Navarre, Wheatberry, Fiddler's Hearth, and other non-chain restaurants that consistently deliver.
(2)
Elaine L.
Love the intimate setting, the wine and the steak bites!
(5)
Kristen J.
Just when I thought worse couldn't get worse it sure did. From the overly loud, bad music coupled with weird, raw pork chunks - I'm outta here!!!! In and out in less then half hour. Chef caught my mental vomit when I saw the raw pork and sent it back. Sure to be spit in LOL so I'm not touching it! He looked on with disgust - what happened to customer service?? Houlihan's South Bend looking' good right about now ! Oxymoron yes, I know......desperate times = desperate measures! 2 stars because (1) ambience for South Bend is a plus & (2) I'm still hanging onto a past better experience. Here's hoping my last visit was a fluke.
(2)
Deb M.
Temper grill is my go to place for dinner. Fro. The steak bites to the chicken marsala, you can't go wrong for dinner. The dining room is smaller and you need to make a reservation- but the small plates idea is a great idea for friends to share and have a variety of dishes. One suggestion though- go for the chocolate truffles not the balsamic strawberries with grilled cake.
(5)
Tom K.
I am a big fan of deals and trying new places. Last year, I took advantage of an online deal for this place and really glad I did. I made a reservation and when my friend and I went in I had wondered why I had bothered since only one other couple were there. In less than 15 minutes the place was packed. The portions of the food were enough for two people so be warned. We ordered the steak with red potatoes and onions and mac and cheese if I remember correctly - it was amazing! My only issue was that the server was kinda weird when I mentioned the online deal and gee I thought the intent of this was to get new people to try the place - you woudl think - hey be nice but oh well. My only complaints would be that the choice of alcohol selection was so so and the desserts could have more selections. I would strongly recommend this place but do call ahead since it is a small room and they are NOT open on Sunday and Monday.
(5)
Stacy O.
Dined here tonight, inspired by the LivingSocial coupon. Though we would have found our way here eventually, I'm grateful to Living Social for expediting the adventure. The food is served tapas style, which means you should plan to share with others in your party. Strategically decide with your group what you're going to order because you won't want to miss anything! We started with baked brie with berry compote. From there, we tried the tequila lime chicken, steak bites, New York strip, macaroni and cheese, and Ahi tuna. We also ordered a side of vegetables (grilled green beans and onions on the night we were there). By the time we cleaned off the last plate, we were happily stuffed and sad we hadn't saved room for the amazing desserts we saw servers carrying out of the kitchen. A highlight of Temper Grille is their extensive wine selection. Check out the two page wine menu and order by the glass to create your own pairing menu, or split a bottle with your party for a reasonable cost. At this time, they don't serve beer or liquor, but the wine menu provides more than enough options. I strongly recommend making reservations. The seating area is small and we saw several people leave because there were no tables available. Don't miss this gem in Granger -- it's worth traveling off the beaten and tired paths of Grape Road and Main Street.
(4)
Em J.
Creative Cuisine and a Glowing 5-Star Review: We have been meaning to try the Temper Grille for the last year and a half. Well, finally we tried it on a whim. In short, it was a wonderful experience with marvelous food and an extensive and impressive wine list. If you've been convinced, stop reading here and go check it out for yourself. If you want more details, read on: It was a Friday evening and they were completely booked out; however, they did have room for us at the bar. Normally, this would be a turn-off, but we actually enjoyed sitting there and getting personal attention and the 'inside scoop' from both Brandi, the bartender, and Chef Sean as he came out of the kitchen to check on things. First the restaurant: It is an intimate place, which is boldly, yet tastefully, decorated. The acoustics are excellent and make for easy conversation with your dining partners. There is seating for about 42 people at tables, another 6+ at the bar, and best of all, room for about another 24+ people out on the terrace. (Unfortunately, this chilly Northern Indiana spring day precluded us from sitting outside.) Next, on to the wine: They have a superb wine list and a bartender who really knows her selections and pairings. Here you will find wines that you may not find at other restaurants. The prices are good and many wines are available by the glass and by the bottle. Bottles seem to be a good deal and one day a week, I think it's Wednesday, they run a special on wines. Now, on to the food: Temper Grille is a tapas-style restaurant. Basically, similar to most tapas places... order several menu items and share them with your dining partners. The only difference is, the portions are a bit larger than standard tapas, so if you aren't the sharing type, you can still have a wonderful meal. I would suggest try 3-5+ items per 3 people... and leave some room for desert. If you have questions, the staff's suggestions are helpful in making selections. Everything we tried was delicious, expertly prepared, wonderfully plated and presented, and best of all, so very satisfying. This is a fun place to have a meal at an unhurried pace while enjoying the company of your dining partners. This place would be great for a romantic dinner, dinner with friends, or even a business dinner. Finally, a note on the staff: From the moment we entered, we were warmly greeted and made to feel welcome. Everyone that works there seems to enjoy what they are doing, know the food, and can carry on a conversation. Chef Sean is a talented and creative culinary artist. His offerings will both astound and amaze you. This restaurant is of Chicago caliber. Once you are dining here, you will forget that you are eating in Granger, Indiana. All my accolades and those of other reviewers are more than well-deserved. We can't wait to go back and try the restaurant again... Try it for yourself, you'll love it! Helpful hint: Make reservations.
(5)
Keith A.
Tom S. Doesn't have a clue. 5 stars all the way. One of the best places in town with super friendly staff.
(5)
Aditi G.
This place was a Groupon success! Went here with a couple friends and we got the spinach dip, stuffed chicken, and the portobello stack and they were all delicious. This place has great service, a small but intimate atmosphere and a vast array of different menu items to please anyone's palate! Also, there was a cute little old man playing piano all night! (He is there on Friday/Saturday)
(5)
Lane M.
Our meal had considerable potential, but ultimately, it was quite unsatisfying. In general, the favors in the dishes were overdone and unbalanced. The portabella stack was served too hot. The moisture in the mushrooms retained the heat of the grill. That negated most of the flavor in the dish. We let it cool only to find its flavor fairly bland. The menu promised goat cheese in their stuffing and goat cheese it was. However, its goat flavor was so mild that it was difficult to distinguish the cheese from any other generic white melting cheese. The vegetables under the cheese simply did not fit the flavor profile of the dish or provide a pleasant texture. I specifically asked that our steak bits by grilled medium. They came nearly well done. I had heard this was a problem at the restaurant. The steak was tough and some pieces even dry (even a well done steak should never be dry). It was also over seasoned. There was a spice mix on it which would have been pleasant by itself, but the pieces were also drizzled with a sauce. That just created too much flavor. Again, no balance! The sauce did help mask the dryness of the meat which was a benefit. Everything they serve seems to be garnished with a mesclun mix. Not a bad thing, but gets boring. The leaves also wilt easily for hot dishes. We did enjoy the spinach dip with pita. I hope the pita was not microwaved, but I could not ultimately tell. They were slightly tough, but not terribly. We also had the baked brie. This was also fairly good. The compote was strange, however. The berries were pithy. Neither my homemade frozen berries nor canned jams have such a texture so I am not sure what was wrong with theirs. What was very strange, however, was serving the brie with pita! I cannot fathom what we were supposed to do with even more pita (which accompanied every dish save the mushrooms) especially with a traditional french dish. The seating was not comfortable. We were at one of your two person tables against the wall across from the bar. It is really a small space. It was difficult to manage all the plates on such a small table, especially since you did not gauge the timing of our dishes well. At one point we had three different dishes on our small table. Not necessary for a tapas place. Our table wobbled when we first arrived. I shimmed it up with a few gum wrappers. A stable table is a must. The dining room tables should be checked regularly. We also sat across from a couple who were obviously friends of either the chef or another cook. He came and visited them a number of times during the evening. He seemed in a rather bad mood as their conversation was usually fairly hushed. It was distracting to have him back and forth. It was also odd that he never asked up how our meal was. He was cooking it after all. It was probably for the best, however. It would have taken too long to discuss my feelings at the point. This restaurant has potential. It is advertised as an American style tapas bar. That is exactly what it is! Americans tend to overdo things (note big pickup trucks). The food tasted very midwest in its seasonings and style. There needs to be more refinement to fit both the dish that the menu envisioned and the price they ask. I hope these comments can be taken positively to improve the dining experience.
(2)
Scott M.
A variety of generous and delicious dishes suited to a discerning palate. The Mac & Cheese-the best I've ever had. This was my first dining experience there, but certainly not my last.
(5)
Catherine H.
It's always good to see a new local restaurant in the area, but to me, this one falls a little short. Although we enjoyed everything we ordered (the lamb was a standout), we left disappointed. Our server was not very helpful or knowledgeable about the menu. With a tapas/small plate concept, two people need to order 4-5+ dishes to have a complete meal. With two of glasses of wine, our bill was close to $100 (before tip). We were still hungry, and had to hit a drive-thru on the way home. For us to go back, there would need to be either more substantial portions, or some lower-priced options to fill out the menu. Seems like it would be a better place to go for a glass of wine and a late-night snack than to plan on it being your only dinner.
(3)
Shayne S.
Great food...great atmosphere...great staff! What else could you ask for!
(5)
Stephanie S.
Oh Temper Grille...FINALLY a great place to dine in the Granger area. I have dined here a handful of times and have yet to be disappointed. Some of my favorites I have tried are the mussels, steak bites, carpaccio, lamb lollipops and the list goes on. They always have great specials and a nice wine selection. The staff is friendly and attentive. Chef Sean knows what he is doing because this place is always packed. I would suggest calling ahead especially if there are more than 2 in your party.
(5)
Autumn G.
Good food. I've been there four times and have never been really blown away. I really love their chocolate truffles. They also do Groupons pretty often so keep an eye out for those.
(4)
Cara L.
I am happy to be able to give Temper Grille 5 stars now as all of their service issues have been ironed out and their dining experience is second to none! Chef Sean does a fabulous job of coming up with new, exciting menu items like his recent additions of lobster mac and cheese, lamb pops and strawberry shortcake with strawberries marinated in balsamic vinegarette. So, if you haven't yet tried this wonderful place - get there soon but be sure to call and make a reservations, tables fill up fast! I was there on a random Tuesday night and while it was 1/2 price bottles of wine night, every table was full. Great to see in this economy! The days will be getting warm soon so take advantage of their tables on the patio. Cheers to Chef Sean and congrats on your 1 years anniversary this month!
(5)
Ethan H.
Get the steak bites! Oh... my... GOODNESS! I love this place!
(5)
Tracy B.
Had dinner and drinks tonight with the girls. 2 of us had been here before and the others had not. We all had a wonderful experience. Our waitress was very helpful in helping us make great choices. We started with Steak bites and Edamame. Then all shared the Scallops (Yum!), Ahi Tuna and finished with the Fabulous Chocolate Truffles and a few bottles of Katherine Goldschmidt Cabernet! We also got to have a great visit with Chef Sean and sign a few corks for the wall. It was a great overall experience. Temper Grille is definitely our new Favorite! Can't wait to come back for more!
(5)
Carly D.
This is a really quaint restaurant with cute decor for such a small place. I recommend making reservations. The waiter referred to the dining as "tapas-style" but I would just say it's a la mode b/c the portions aren't small like a real tapas restaurant serves. That being said, maybe it's just to encourage a sharing experience. We had a party of 6 and the booth they put us in was heavenly with comfy cushions and lots of space. The service was excellent - waiter was very professional. There was also a man playing a keyboard piano in the background - not too loud - which was very nice. We tried a little of everything on my menu - soups app (excellent), edemame (awesome w/ their lime salt!), seared tuna (so yum)...I could go on but it was all good.
(4)
Kathy S.
If you're looking for a great place to unwind with delicious food and great wine, Temper Grille is the place to be! The food is excellent, served in small plates that are perfect for sharing -- and the wine selection is great -- the knowledgeable staff adds to the overall experience. For me, nothing is better on a warm afternoon than to sit on the patio with a cheese plate and a glass of pinot grigio -- followed by some of Chef Sean's AWESOME chocolate truffles
(5)
Megan F.
lovely ambiance, food was great, steak bites were incredible!
(4)
Manda H.
great food variety, accommodating staff, friendly and knowledgeable server. great place to dine with friends, though the restaurant is tiny. they really can't accommodate more than 4 at a time without some difficulty. will definitely be back!
(4)
Sara H.
Well, I'm not sure that the person who gave this restaurant 3 stars actually knows what they are talking about. This place is DELICIOUS! steak bites... YUM LObster bites...yum, lobster Mac n cheese YUM! Sangria... Omg!!!! Stuffed chicken... WOW!! it is a little pricey, but for the taste of the food and the atmosphere designed for couples or a nice dinner, it's worth it. Don't forget to finish your dinner off with the Truffles... So good!!!
(5)
Michaele L.
This place is great! The menu has always offered great options, definitely worth trying many things. I recently ordered the baked Brie and it was delicious! The atmosphere is pretty cool as well, with the wine cork wall and the wine bottle overhead lamp on the bar. One of the best things about this place is they often have a Groupon deal of $15 for $30. With such a selection of wines, beers, and tapas, your bill can get pricey. So it does make it nice to have the Groupon deal.
(4)
Epicureans U.
I don't count people who do only do two reviews and rip a place to pieces as a quality review. As the event coordinator for Granger Restaurant Week. All menus are marked clearly. Here is what the Temper Grille menu has on it. For Example: Choose One Starches, Veggies and More Mac & Cheese Add Pork Belly $5 Add Roasted Peppers $2 Add Lobster Knuckle Meat $15 Add Blackened Shrimp $8 IF it says ADD and there is a price next to it. IT WILL BE ON YOUR BILL. If you want the original mac and cheese...no additional price. It is unfortunate that some people take to Yelp to have their emotional moments instead of solving them at the restaurant. Temper Grille is a well established local tapas restaurant. People need to read their menus and not be upset when they miss an upgrade price. Taking it out on the owner is not really good conflict management and posting a questionable true review is not really QUALITY conflict management. and definitely poor customer service on the part of the customer.
(5)
Jen K.
Normally I don't go to places that yelling radio hosts recommend. This is an exception. No one yelling here, just time for chilling and sharing. Nice place, with a menu that keeps rotating but never gets worse. I also didn't have any slowness issues with service though I can see the place get too full. It would be nice if the place was less dark though, this nightclubbish feel doesn't fit tapas eating.
(4)
David J.
I shoot photographs for feature articles on Michiana's best restaurants and recently had the privilege of visiting Chef Sean Kelley's 'Temper Grill'. What a great experience! Simply put, I loved it! The staff was perfectly attentive, the setting was intimate and upscale, fabulous wines and Chef Sean paid personal attention to the perfection of each and every dish placed in front of us. I liked dishes that I didn't necessarily expect to like, and LOVED the one's I eagerly anticipated. Worth noting is the fact that the restaurant serves adults 21 and over ONLY, and the bar seems to be 'wine only'. Try a bottle of the Duckhorn Merlot! I've posted a few of the photos I took that evening, but the food was even better than it looked! I promise! As for value - truly one of the best investments you can make in a Michiana evening. NO QUESTION! I think you should go...
(5)
John F.
Dynamite! We loved our steak bites, lobster bites and arugula salad. The Greek cheese soaked in brandy and flamed table-side was delightful. Good selection of wine by the glass and wide selection of wine by the bottle. Looked like quite a beer list , too. We'll try to return tonight.
(5)
Kim D.
Love the food & change of menu!! Great date night place! The seating area is small, not meant for families. We usually wait for Groupon deals to come through before visiting. That way we can order more dishes!! Love how everything is to share and come sour when it's ready instead if all at once.
(5)
Camden D.
First off, this place is NOT tapas. I was very excited when I heard there was a tapas restaurant that had opened in the area, I grew up eating Spanish Tapas food and miss it terribly! But it is not, it is tapas-STYLE! So once I got over that fact, I was ready to see what this tapas style restaurant had to offer and it turned out to be delicious!! We sat next to a couple that had clearly been there before and went with a few of their suggestions, which turned out to be awesome! We ended up ordering the Mini Steak Chimmis, Mac and Cheese (plain), asparagus, creamed corn, and hummus. All of which sounded good, but I didn't expect to be so blown away by those dishes! They were all really really great!! We also had the intention to keep ordering dishes, but after just those dishes our table of 4 was stuffed! We all had two beers and after splitting the bill by 4 our bill was $20.61..... Come on! Amazing! We did order mostly side dishes rather than the Main dishes which had a much higher price point, but it was plenty of food for us and I can't wait to go back and try many of the other items on the menu, but now I'm hooked on the ones I ordered last time! Overall it was a great experience! But a few notes to know for first timers- you do need reservations, it will look closed as you walk up to the building, there is no hostess stand and you will feel awkward just walking into the middle of the dining room, it is terribly quiet in there (they really need SOME music playing), but just keep going!!! It's worth it and it's delicious!
(5)
Rich D.
Delicious meal for our anniversary. Highly recommend the duck bites and Sammies. Service was good. Would have gotten 5 stars but there was a hiccup that one of our plates was lost in the shuffle. Overall, we would go back in a heartbeat. Had a very enjoyable meal FYI, I wouldn't ding the food or server for this but upon asking for iced tea, found out it was canned. Passed on that. Not too much there for a non beer/wine drinker. Not a negative, just be informed
(4)
Joshua B.
It's a quaint place with Fantastic food. My wife and I visit once a month. The smoked salmon with mac and cheese is great. The lamb pops are overrated. Small and not that tasty. The other menu items are worth trying.
(4)
David G.
Wonderful food and service but pricey -- it made me wish I was billing to a corporate account. A great place to come for a treat.
(5)
Beth L.
I get the idea of sharing. We were looking forward to that, but the prices were ridiculous for what you got and food was mediocre at best. There are so many better places to go to in the area that we won't waste our time or money there again.
(1)
Kirill G.
The food was rather good, but even after making a representation we had to wait for 20 minutes to get sited.
(3)
Shanna M.
I will start off by saying that our waitress was excellent, accommodating and gave great recommendations. With that being said I felt the restaurant was nothing special. The table we were seated at was extremely small especially considering the fact that we had several plates on our table. The food we ordered was only so-so and the selection available on the menu was nothing to talk about. I loved the idea of a Tapas restaurant in South Bend, especially considered the massive amount of chain restaurants we have here but I was expecting to be wowed by the food and left very disappointed.
(2)
Ike T.
My wife and I love this place. Dress is casual, and the restaurant is cozy. Items are made to be shared. We usually order 3-4 items on the menu and have tried about everything on the menu and they have not disappointed us. My wife's favorites are the duck and steak bites. I love the lamb pops and lobster bites.
(4)
Cassie S.
We always go planning to try something new, but the steak bites and redskin potatoes are just too good to pass up. The spicy feta is also one if our favorites. Excellent service, amazing atmosphere, delicious food, there is often a groupon available. What's not to love!
(5)
Jennyfer N.
We came here recently with some family members to sample the dinner menu. I came with predominately meat/potato eaters so we ended up having to eat elsewhere afterwards because they were still hungry. I love the idea of tapas. It makes sense, You should sample a lot of different little things so that the dining experience can be fresh and your palate doesn't get tired of the usual meat and two veg dilemma. It's very similar to dim sum and other Asian style restaurants. However... Most of the food offered was pretty standard fare. And I'll just say it, 12 dollars for 6-8 bites of food is just not at all affordable on most people's budgets unless 1) you can subsist on little or 2) you have a good job that pays for that type of luxury. While I appreciate their aesthetic, it just wasn't...exciting. And I understand this dynamic. As an avid food enthusiast, I've paid ridiculous sums of money for exotic bites of food at sushi joints. I admit, it's a bit ridiculous but you're paying also for an experience, a new way at looking at something. Here...grilled steak? Pan seared pork? Cold sliced steak? It's dressing up what is ordinary fare. For my 12 bucks, I'd rather go to the grocery store, grab a pork tenderloin/ cut of filet mignon and sear it myself. Maybe I could get a potato out of that 12 dollars and call it a meal. But hey, that's the frugal side of me. Bottom line, if you sell it as "tapas" then I want to be excited about it. I just wasn't quite impressed with what we ordered. We got steak bites, pork bites, an order of Mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, a sliced steak chimichurri dish, and then my tomato mozzarella stack. The sea bass with mango wasn't even that exciting of a sell. Now...I will say, the tomato mozzarella stack was delicious. But then again, tomato, mozzarella, and balsamic has been a proven match for years. Not anything new to me. I supposed I expect too much from this and it may just be that this area doesn't have a whole lot of exposure to different dining styles and cuisines. But honestly, I wasn't that impressed. We went to Main Street Pub afterwards and had pulled pork nachos. WAY more exciting. And cheaper too.
(3)
Mable A.
Food is great. Regardless of the service I'd never discount the great food. Seems most reviews including my own have one common denominator. The owner/chef should try and lighten up. You own a lovely restaurant with great food! Even great sake martins. That's pretty awesome. Anyone should be able to handle criticism on any level. Great food, I wouldn't allow a few complaints to rile you up. It's almost sad that something as small as an annoyingly rude owner can keep people from some really good dishes. But I guess it's not always fun to encounter a pouting adult.
(3)
Lynlee M.
Super good! My husband and I went on a Groupon and we will be back. The food is fresh and was obviously made with quality ingredients. The food came out fresh and nice and hot.
(5)
Jill M.
I have to say that when it comes to dining out I have high expectations. I expect high quality food and REMARKABLE customer service. I do not mind paying for either. I received neither this weekend at Temper Grille. I also expect that when I register a complaint that I am treated with respect. I do not always expect to get my way, and I would never try and take advantage of local establishment. As a member of the customer service industry and nationwide trainer, I understand how to manage conflict and resolve situations without causing further damage. This establishment is in need of some serious customer service training. My friend and I happened to participate in a promotion for Granger Food Week. The menu had indicated that certain item we an upgrade and you would be charged extra. No big deal. We ordered one upgrade, enjoyed the meal for the most part (don't get the crab cakes...they were very fishy and mushy). When our bill came, I was shocked to see that we were charged an extra $15 dollars...the menu wasn't very clear - we misread it - completely our fault. I said that I didn't think we should have to pay for the upgrade because we didn't see the extra cost. In retrospect, I probably shouldn't have said anything...but I thought it was worth mentioning. Maybe other people could have been confused as well. Well, here's where it gets interesting. The owner came out with awful look on his face and says (in a horrible tone)..."what's the problem"? He was seething. (Just so you know, I was polite but direct...I wasn't causing some type of scene) He didn't say, how may I help you or I'm sorry for your misunderstanding, but instead..."what's the problem?" Then he proceeds to point to the menu and say...it says right here that this mac n cheese is extra. "Well, I guess I should just change my whole menu since you can't read it". He was insinuating that I was stupid and/or illiterate. I was completely in shock. The thing is...I would have and did pay the extra 15 dollars - OMG when you are dropping $50 on dinner it's not like it's a big deal. I guess I just wanted them to know that the menu wasn't clear. I have never in my life been treated so poorly. But I guess this establishment just doesn't care about customer service. I don't care how ridiculous your customers are...they are customers. They are paying your salary and keeping you in business. You should be kind. Kindness can make an upset customer with a misunderstanding see things differently. I will never set foot in this restaurant again and believe me...the food isn't worth the rude folks and cramped atmosphere. Take your business down to LaSalle Grill - the Tavern is amazing (oh, and they're nice to you there).
(1)
Amy H.
I frequent Temper Grille regularly and it never fails to impress. The restaurant is small, but comfortable and the service is always right on. The portion sizes are larger than typical tapas restaurants and reasonably priced. Some of our favorite menu items include the steak bites, mac and cheese, edamame and stuffed chicken. The soups and wraps are great for lunch. Chef Sean is always coming up with new creations - last night we had the sliders and the bite size blueberry cheesecakes for dessert and both were wonderful. If you haven't been, you need to go!
(5)
Jake R.
I went in to try Temper after reading so many great reviews. The restaurant was half full but no tables were available until 9....we were told. We were sent to the bar...no problem, but then dressed down by the goth-lipped bartender and for the next three minutes we were told what would be and how it would be. Then I read the top of the menu. I am not quoting exactly here but had I been able to gracefully take the menu with me, I would have so I could give it to you exactly. Don't like how long it takes? Too bad. Don't like our chipped dishes? Tough. Be nice to our servers. Deal with our attitude. You are lucky to be here. We really could care less about you or the effort you made to be here. We got up and left before drinks came and we wouldn't go back under any circumstances. This rudeness isn't schtick. It's bad business.
(1)
Sara H.
Tried it for the first time after purchasing a Groupon. I think it was a good place to go for a date night because of the ambience and the style of food; tapas. You are forced (in a good way) to share food and have conversation. There is not another restaurant around here like it. Our server was very good at recommending items for us to try since it was our first visit and we got the perfect amount. They also have an excellent beer and wine selection. My complaint is that Temper Grille, or maybe the owner, seem a bit pretentious. I think part of that is location. But the main reason I say that is because there is a disclaimer on the menu written by the owner and it basically says "This is my restaurant. I will serve you food when I want the way I want and you better not complain or do anything I don't like or you will be asked to leave. You need me, I don't need you". Maybe its not meant in the context I took it, but it was off-putting enough that it makes me not want to go back, even though there are other items I would like to try.
(3)
Lisa R.
Thrilled to say that the hubs and I continue to have amazing experiences here! Never fails to impress! Service is always spot on, not too rushed nor too slow. Excellent section of wines in all price ranges and haven't had a bad choice from the menu yet! We love that it's an "over 21 to enter" restaurant so we can have a great time reconnecting and dining with other adults always! Chef Sean really has a great thing going, hope he doesn't change a thing!
(5)
Sherri D.
The food was amazing. Everything was great. The only suggestion we would make is that we were a party of four and a few of the dishes came out with three of something. We would appreciate the servings to match the party and would be willing to pay for four portions of an item. Also I would only bring close friends or a date as it was a little awkward sharing with a business client. Great service, and nice environment. Would definitely recommend.
(5)
Allen M.
Damn, I wish they would open an outpost in Oak Park, Illinois. We were on a car trip and I found this place on the web. Really glad I did. The small plates were perfect for us. At home we each order an entre and take half of it home. We are OLD and have small appetites. When you go, do not miss the restrooms!
(5)
Jeremy V.
We've been to Temper Grille on many occasions, and have yet to be disappointed. After all these visits we've tried pretty much everything on the menu, plus whatever specials chef has going on at the time. The flaming cheese has to be one of my favorite things. I could eat five plates of that myself. But everything else from the lamb pops, chicken marsala, steak, tuna, pork, has all been just fantastic. Cooked properly, great flavor, and no real downside other than wishing you had twice as much on the plate. The waitstaff has been fantastic, fun, and friendly. They will joke with us at the table, etc. Last time we were there we had five people, and one of the the plates only came with four portions, but she went ahead made sure there were five portions so that we could all get a full piece. The only downside, if you can even call it that, is that it is tad pricey. So if you're a big eater looking to fill up on a 20 dollar meal, this place may not be for you. But it's perfect for a night out with a group of friends where you want to spend an evening and enjoy some good wine, good food, and try new things. Can't wait to go back yet again.
(5)
Renee S.
Time and time again, Temper Grille never disappoints us. Whether we dine in or meet them at the local chili cook off (who my son kept going back for more) they are great. Sean has this down and his staff is top notch. Love the chilean sea bass, lamb lollipops, mussels, mmmmm my mouth is watering now! You will spend a bit here, but its a meal that you will want more of. MMMMM.
(5)
Shirley B.
Ok, I've given this restaurant several chances. The food is good but it appears to be slipping. Feels like some corner cutting is taking place. You have to order a lot to come away satisfied and then it gets pretty pricey. Plus, fine dining is more than just food. The atmosphere is bad, starting with the tables right in front of the doors, to the booths with seats that feel like you're sitting on wooden planks, to the bar and bathroom which both look like they are fresh out of a brothel. Cross your fingers that you'll get a high top seat, as it's away from the door and much more comfortable than the other options. And, at a high top your feet are off the cement floor which will chill you to the bone in the winter. While I enjoy the salad, duck bites, and Mac and cheese, I think I'm done with this place. There are better options which are also close to Granger like Yesterday's, Ruth's Chris, and my new favorite Rocky River(or some name like that). Ok, I wasn't going to go there, but I see others have and I feel it needs to be said: the chef/owner needs to pull himself together and take a few courses on customer service. He is NOT doing us a huge favor by slinging food and when there is a problem with the food(and it doesn't happen often) he comes unglued. I'm not sure if he's watched a few too many episodes of Hell's Kitchen or if that's just how he is, but when he comes out of the kitchen, the whole mood in the dining room changes for the worst. He needs a manager who has the authority to deal with customer issues and he should just stay in the kitchen.
(2)
Jose L.
Great place for tapas.
(5)
Sherry G.
Would never go back again. If you like very small portions, rude waitstaff and a totally pretentious place to eat, then this is the place for you. This is South Bend after all. Food was good, what there was of it. Very unconcerned owner/chef. Rude, insulting person. Felt very uncomfortable there eating alone on a weekend. Was ignored totally by my waitress and reported this to the owner. Waited four days to hear back from the owner. Never called. When he did call, accused me of trying to get something for free from him. I didn't want anything from him, because I had no intention of ever going back there. And to think I came out in a heavy snowstorm to eat there. I've lived in various major metropolitan areas around the country and this was the first time this has ever happened. Save your money and go to a restaurant that not only has good food, but gives reasonable portions and where they certainly appreciate your business!
(1)
Huyen L.
Delicious food- Get the NY Strip with the roasted red pepper sauce and the Ahi Tuna! If you can swing it, the lobster mac and cheese is melt in your mouth tasty! Make sure you go during Restaurant Week, too. The deal is unbeatable!
(5)
Kristin M.
I've been a semi-weekly regular at Temper for at least six months. On the positive side, the waitstaff has always been very friendly and accommodating. There was a group there tonight smoking cigars on the patio dining area. When someone at my table mentioned it to our server, she said that they were aware of the problem and would take care of it. The smokers moved approximately 2 feet away from the dining area, and no further action was taken - disappointing. We were interested in the cheese plate, but the menu described it as coming with "cured meats", which didn't interest my party. We asked if they would substitute all cheeses, and our server asked the chef, but returned to tell us that it couldn't be changed, but that the plate only included a "garnish" of meat. When it arrived, it was three different meats and three cheeses - clearly half meat and not a garnish. Our server smiled uncomfortably when we were disappointed. I understand if a substitution isn't allowed, but I wish we'd had the opportunity to order something different. Like Kristen M, I'm hoping tonight was a fluke, but it was a major disappointment. I tried to talk to the manager in a constructive way as we left, since the menu has changed fairly recently, but he told me I was wrong (the smokers moved 3 feet away and not two, there wasn't as much meat as I thought on that plate, etc.). I didn't want to argue with him, and he didn't want my feedback. I hope that the cigar crowd is a group of regulars who will bring lots of business to Temper, because I'm no longer recommending it to the South Bend visitors that I encounter at work. From now on, I'll send them to Corndance, Cafe Navarre, Wheatberry, Fiddler's Hearth, and other non-chain restaurants that consistently deliver.
(2)
Elaine L.
Love the intimate setting, the wine and the steak bites!
(5)
Kristen J.
Just when I thought worse couldn't get worse it sure did. From the overly loud, bad music coupled with weird, raw pork chunks - I'm outta here!!!! In and out in less then half hour. Chef caught my mental vomit when I saw the raw pork and sent it back. Sure to be spit in LOL so I'm not touching it! He looked on with disgust - what happened to customer service?? Houlihan's South Bend looking' good right about now ! Oxymoron yes, I know......desperate times = desperate measures! 2 stars because (1) ambience for South Bend is a plus & (2) I'm still hanging onto a past better experience. Here's hoping my last visit was a fluke.
(2)
Deb M.
Temper grill is my go to place for dinner. Fro. The steak bites to the chicken marsala, you can't go wrong for dinner. The dining room is smaller and you need to make a reservation- but the small plates idea is a great idea for friends to share and have a variety of dishes. One suggestion though- go for the chocolate truffles not the balsamic strawberries with grilled cake.
(5)
Em J.
Creative Cuisine and a Glowing 5-Star Review: We have been meaning to try the Temper Grille for the last year and a half. Well, finally we tried it on a whim. In short, it was a wonderful experience with marvelous food and an extensive and impressive wine list. If you've been convinced, stop reading here and go check it out for yourself. If you want more details, read on: It was a Friday evening and they were completely booked out; however, they did have room for us at the bar. Normally, this would be a turn-off, but we actually enjoyed sitting there and getting personal attention and the 'inside scoop' from both Brandi, the bartender, and Chef Sean as he came out of the kitchen to check on things. First the restaurant: It is an intimate place, which is boldly, yet tastefully, decorated. The acoustics are excellent and make for easy conversation with your dining partners. There is seating for about 42 people at tables, another 6+ at the bar, and best of all, room for about another 24+ people out on the terrace. (Unfortunately, this chilly Northern Indiana spring day precluded us from sitting outside.) Next, on to the wine: They have a superb wine list and a bartender who really knows her selections and pairings. Here you will find wines that you may not find at other restaurants. The prices are good and many wines are available by the glass and by the bottle. Bottles seem to be a good deal and one day a week, I think it's Wednesday, they run a special on wines. Now, on to the food: Temper Grille is a tapas-style restaurant. Basically, similar to most tapas places... order several menu items and share them with your dining partners. The only difference is, the portions are a bit larger than standard tapas, so if you aren't the sharing type, you can still have a wonderful meal. I would suggest try 3-5+ items per 3 people... and leave some room for desert. If you have questions, the staff's suggestions are helpful in making selections. Everything we tried was delicious, expertly prepared, wonderfully plated and presented, and best of all, so very satisfying. This is a fun place to have a meal at an unhurried pace while enjoying the company of your dining partners. This place would be great for a romantic dinner, dinner with friends, or even a business dinner. Finally, a note on the staff: From the moment we entered, we were warmly greeted and made to feel welcome. Everyone that works there seems to enjoy what they are doing, know the food, and can carry on a conversation. Chef Sean is a talented and creative culinary artist. His offerings will both astound and amaze you. This restaurant is of Chicago caliber. Once you are dining here, you will forget that you are eating in Granger, Indiana. All my accolades and those of other reviewers are more than well-deserved. We can't wait to go back and try the restaurant again... Try it for yourself, you'll love it! Helpful hint: Make reservations.
(5)
Aditi G.
This place was a Groupon success! Went here with a couple friends and we got the spinach dip, stuffed chicken, and the portobello stack and they were all delicious. This place has great service, a small but intimate atmosphere and a vast array of different menu items to please anyone's palate! Also, there was a cute little old man playing piano all night! (He is there on Friday/Saturday)
(5)
Keith A.
Tom S. Doesn't have a clue. 5 stars all the way. One of the best places in town with super friendly staff.
(5)
Lane M.
Our meal had considerable potential, but ultimately, it was quite unsatisfying. In general, the favors in the dishes were overdone and unbalanced. The portabella stack was served too hot. The moisture in the mushrooms retained the heat of the grill. That negated most of the flavor in the dish. We let it cool only to find its flavor fairly bland. The menu promised goat cheese in their stuffing and goat cheese it was. However, its goat flavor was so mild that it was difficult to distinguish the cheese from any other generic white melting cheese. The vegetables under the cheese simply did not fit the flavor profile of the dish or provide a pleasant texture. I specifically asked that our steak bits by grilled medium. They came nearly well done. I had heard this was a problem at the restaurant. The steak was tough and some pieces even dry (even a well done steak should never be dry). It was also over seasoned. There was a spice mix on it which would have been pleasant by itself, but the pieces were also drizzled with a sauce. That just created too much flavor. Again, no balance! The sauce did help mask the dryness of the meat which was a benefit. Everything they serve seems to be garnished with a mesclun mix. Not a bad thing, but gets boring. The leaves also wilt easily for hot dishes. We did enjoy the spinach dip with pita. I hope the pita was not microwaved, but I could not ultimately tell. They were slightly tough, but not terribly. We also had the baked brie. This was also fairly good. The compote was strange, however. The berries were pithy. Neither my homemade frozen berries nor canned jams have such a texture so I am not sure what was wrong with theirs. What was very strange, however, was serving the brie with pita! I cannot fathom what we were supposed to do with even more pita (which accompanied every dish save the mushrooms) especially with a traditional french dish. The seating was not comfortable. We were at one of your two person tables against the wall across from the bar. It is really a small space. It was difficult to manage all the plates on such a small table, especially since you did not gauge the timing of our dishes well. At one point we had three different dishes on our small table. Not necessary for a tapas place. Our table wobbled when we first arrived. I shimmed it up with a few gum wrappers. A stable table is a must. The dining room tables should be checked regularly. We also sat across from a couple who were obviously friends of either the chef or another cook. He came and visited them a number of times during the evening. He seemed in a rather bad mood as their conversation was usually fairly hushed. It was distracting to have him back and forth. It was also odd that he never asked up how our meal was. He was cooking it after all. It was probably for the best, however. It would have taken too long to discuss my feelings at the point. This restaurant has potential. It is advertised as an American style tapas bar. That is exactly what it is! Americans tend to overdo things (note big pickup trucks). The food tasted very midwest in its seasonings and style. There needs to be more refinement to fit both the dish that the menu envisioned and the price they ask. I hope these comments can be taken positively to improve the dining experience.
(2)
Tom K.
I am a big fan of deals and trying new places. Last year, I took advantage of an online deal for this place and really glad I did. I made a reservation and when my friend and I went in I had wondered why I had bothered since only one other couple were there. In less than 15 minutes the place was packed. The portions of the food were enough for two people so be warned. We ordered the steak with red potatoes and onions and mac and cheese if I remember correctly - it was amazing! My only issue was that the server was kinda weird when I mentioned the online deal and gee I thought the intent of this was to get new people to try the place - you woudl think - hey be nice but oh well. My only complaints would be that the choice of alcohol selection was so so and the desserts could have more selections. I would strongly recommend this place but do call ahead since it is a small room and they are NOT open on Sunday and Monday.
(5)
Stacy O.
Dined here tonight, inspired by the LivingSocial coupon. Though we would have found our way here eventually, I'm grateful to Living Social for expediting the adventure. The food is served tapas style, which means you should plan to share with others in your party. Strategically decide with your group what you're going to order because you won't want to miss anything! We started with baked brie with berry compote. From there, we tried the tequila lime chicken, steak bites, New York strip, macaroni and cheese, and Ahi tuna. We also ordered a side of vegetables (grilled green beans and onions on the night we were there). By the time we cleaned off the last plate, we were happily stuffed and sad we hadn't saved room for the amazing desserts we saw servers carrying out of the kitchen. A highlight of Temper Grille is their extensive wine selection. Check out the two page wine menu and order by the glass to create your own pairing menu, or split a bottle with your party for a reasonable cost. At this time, they don't serve beer or liquor, but the wine menu provides more than enough options. I strongly recommend making reservations. The seating area is small and we saw several people leave because there were no tables available. Don't miss this gem in Granger -- it's worth traveling off the beaten and tired paths of Grape Road and Main Street.
(4)
Scott M.
A variety of generous and delicious dishes suited to a discerning palate. The Mac & Cheese-the best I've ever had. This was my first dining experience there, but certainly not my last.
(5)
Catherine H.
It's always good to see a new local restaurant in the area, but to me, this one falls a little short. Although we enjoyed everything we ordered (the lamb was a standout), we left disappointed. Our server was not very helpful or knowledgeable about the menu. With a tapas/small plate concept, two people need to order 4-5+ dishes to have a complete meal. With two of glasses of wine, our bill was close to $100 (before tip). We were still hungry, and had to hit a drive-thru on the way home. For us to go back, there would need to be either more substantial portions, or some lower-priced options to fill out the menu. Seems like it would be a better place to go for a glass of wine and a late-night snack than to plan on it being your only dinner.
(3)
Shayne S.
Great food...great atmosphere...great staff! What else could you ask for!
(5)
Jason R.
Fantastic tapas spot! The menu is a bit on the short side, but everything we have ordered is excellent. After living in Chicago, I missed a good tapas restaurant. This definitely fits the need! Staff is friendly, accommodating, and easy going. The chocolate truffles are remarkable. Cozy, trendy atmosphere, that is very welcoming and casual.
(5)
Michele K.
While on vacation in Three Rivers we ventured to Temper where we enjoyed some of the best food we'd ever eaten. The waitstaff is so pleasent & knowledgeable about their many wines they have to offer. And the white sangria? Let's just say..... we tried to shake down Sean, the owner, for his recipe. The food came to our table in perfect staggered stages allowing us to share and enjoy so many delicious and unique flavors. I need to come back to try everything on that menu. I recommend you make the drive to try Temper Grille! And seriously. Save room for truffles.
(5)
Chelsea W.
The Temper Grille is a MUST when you're in the Notre Dame/South Bend area. Both my boyfriend and colleague agree that we have to stop when we're in town. I haven't had a bad thing on their menu, I love the atmosphere and the dining experience is fun overall.
(5)
Cara L.
I am happy to be able to give Temper Grille 5 stars now as all of their service issues have been ironed out and their dining experience is second to none! Chef Sean does a fabulous job of coming up with new, exciting menu items like his recent additions of lobster mac and cheese, lamb pops and strawberry shortcake with strawberries marinated in balsamic vinegarette. So, if you haven't yet tried this wonderful place - get there soon but be sure to call and make a reservations, tables fill up fast! I was there on a random Tuesday night and while it was 1/2 price bottles of wine night, every table was full. Great to see in this economy! The days will be getting warm soon so take advantage of their tables on the patio. Cheers to Chef Sean and congrats on your 1 years anniversary this month!
(5)
Ethan H.
Get the steak bites! Oh... my... GOODNESS! I love this place!
(5)
Tracy B.
Had dinner and drinks tonight with the girls. 2 of us had been here before and the others had not. We all had a wonderful experience. Our waitress was very helpful in helping us make great choices. We started with Steak bites and Edamame. Then all shared the Scallops (Yum!), Ahi Tuna and finished with the Fabulous Chocolate Truffles and a few bottles of Katherine Goldschmidt Cabernet! We also got to have a great visit with Chef Sean and sign a few corks for the wall. It was a great overall experience. Temper Grille is definitely our new Favorite! Can't wait to come back for more!
(5)
Carly D.
This is a really quaint restaurant with cute decor for such a small place. I recommend making reservations. The waiter referred to the dining as "tapas-style" but I would just say it's a la mode b/c the portions aren't small like a real tapas restaurant serves. That being said, maybe it's just to encourage a sharing experience. We had a party of 6 and the booth they put us in was heavenly with comfy cushions and lots of space. The service was excellent - waiter was very professional. There was also a man playing a keyboard piano in the background - not too loud - which was very nice. We tried a little of everything on my menu - soups app (excellent), edemame (awesome w/ their lime salt!), seared tuna (so yum)...I could go on but it was all good.
(4)
Kathy S.
If you're looking for a great place to unwind with delicious food and great wine, Temper Grille is the place to be! The food is excellent, served in small plates that are perfect for sharing -- and the wine selection is great -- the knowledgeable staff adds to the overall experience. For me, nothing is better on a warm afternoon than to sit on the patio with a cheese plate and a glass of pinot grigio -- followed by some of Chef Sean's AWESOME chocolate truffles
(5)
Megan F.
lovely ambiance, food was great, steak bites were incredible!
(4)
Manda H.
great food variety, accommodating staff, friendly and knowledgeable server. great place to dine with friends, though the restaurant is tiny. they really can't accommodate more than 4 at a time without some difficulty. will definitely be back!
(4)
Christo L.
Great food, great service! Just the right place for those who like to have and try a variety of different well-made dishes.
(5)
Jp S.
This is a general review over every time I've been to Temper. It's never been disappointing. I think i've tried just about everything on the menu, and while I have my favorites (Steak Bites YES PLEASE) their is not a single item I wouldn't order again. Occasionally Sean will have a sushi night, and it's by far the best in town. His wine selection is 2nd to none. I go to many wine dinner's in town, and Temper's wine nights are the event of the month. No one puts on a better event than them. As I write this review I have started to think about the service. Going to one place many times you are bound to run into a lackluster night service wise, except at Temper. You are always treated like you own the place. I think it's a requirement that every server try everything on the menu, because never once have I heard, I haven't tried that but others say it's great. The staff is just as if not more top notch then the food.
(5)
Stephanie S.
Oh Temper Grille...FINALLY a great place to dine in the Granger area. I have dined here a handful of times and have yet to be disappointed. Some of my favorites I have tried are the mussels, steak bites, carpaccio, lamb lollipops and the list goes on. They always have great specials and a nice wine selection. The staff is friendly and attentive. Chef Sean knows what he is doing because this place is always packed. I would suggest calling ahead especially if there are more than 2 in your party.
(5)
Autumn G.
Good food. I've been there four times and have never been really blown away. I really love their chocolate truffles. They also do Groupons pretty often so keep an eye out for those.
(4)
Sara H.
Well, I'm not sure that the person who gave this restaurant 3 stars actually knows what they are talking about. This place is DELICIOUS! steak bites... YUM LObster bites...yum, lobster Mac n cheese YUM! Sangria... Omg!!!! Stuffed chicken... WOW!! it is a little pricey, but for the taste of the food and the atmosphere designed for couples or a nice dinner, it's worth it. Don't forget to finish your dinner off with the Truffles... So good!!!
(5)
Kailey L.
Holy cow this is probably my new favorite restaurant. The prices are a little up there ($85 for two) however the food is phenomenal. The sea bass is out of this world. I was a little disappointed in the salmon because it was served cold and I'm not huge on cold fish but it was still pretty tasty! We got macaroni and cheese and asparagus for our sides and both were delicious. At that time we definitely could have eaten more but with two beers on top of that we decided to just get dessert and not over stuff ourselves. We ordered the strawberry shortcake and the chef also sent us out the chocolate truffles. I don't think my taste buds have ever exploded more! I'm craving the truffles from just writing about them haha! They had a decent beer selection and a long wine list but of course they were out of the wine I wanted (I feel like this always happens to me) so we stuck with beer. The service was a little slow even with the restaurant only being about half full on a Saturday but overall I was almost as pleased as my taste buds. We will definitely be returning soon!
(4)
Heather B.
My favorite restaurant in this area, by far. The new look and feel is awesome! I took my mom here last night and we chose the baked brie, crab cakes, and pork bites. Everything was delicious! Service was great. I always look forward to getting the waiter they have, but we had Brandy last night and she was great too. I have never been disappointed by Temper Grille! Keep up the great work...your restaurant rocks!
(5)
M. G.
Wow, fabulous food. Ate here once and tried many dishes. All choices were tasty and unique. I recommend this place. The booths (newly remodeled) are too deep for the height of the tables so your chin is practically rests on the table. Ask for a table with chairs. Don't go with too large of a group. They can't accommodate you comfortably. We had 6 and were cramped. The glare form the setting sun can make it so you squint and can't see those across the booth from you. Perhaps they will get some window coverings or tinting to fix this problem.
(5)
Linsey W.
This is my favorite place in Michiana! The shareable plates allow you to try multiple dishes. I've never had a bad experience here and love how frequently new items are offered as the seasons allow. Also, they frequently offer a Groupon to allow you to get your feet wet at a discounted price. I cannot recommend highly enough! The duck bites and strawberry shortcake are always a must!
(5)
Janet Y.
My boyfriend and I LOVE this place! We have gone to the other downtown South Bend restaurants and Temper Grill is by far the best. It is a tapas - STYLE restaurant. It is not tapas. You do need reservations but bar seating is typically available. I can never decide on what to eat, so this place is perfect. I haven't tried anything I haven't liked. Their mac and cheese and steak bites are always great choices. The last few times our bill after taxes + tip with drinks, 5 plates and dessert was $120. This is now our go - to restaurant.
(5)
A K.
first of all, tapas is anything BUT slow and this place is dreadfully slow. For south bend area this place has decent food but quality/speed to price ratio is way off. I will probably not go back here again. But i suppose if you are looking for something different then it's worth to check it out for your self. Be warned you're in for hour and a half to two hours for a normal meal, so have some time on your hands.
(2)
Tom S.
Apparently I missed the memo that you need reservations. My spouse and I stopped in as we heard good things about this place from co-workers. Was a bit surprised by the night club feel and how small the place was. No one bothered to acknowledge us after we walked in so we started for a booth thinking maybe it was a seat yourself situation. That sure got the attention of the staff. The waitress ran over and actually blocked our path before we reached the booth asking if we had reservations. The place was half empty. We were a bit surprised and said no. She offered some seating at the bar but she was rude and had the attitude she didn't really want us to stay. No problem. We left and had a good laugh. Pretentious restaurant in a strip mall. Fabulous.
(1)
Brian E.
The best restaurant I have been to in the area. Much better than corndance. They were out of bacon wrapped dates which was disappointing but the we were there at 8:15 and the idea is to make fresh, delicious food so that type of thing happens. Let's put it this way, if a restaurant doesn't run out of something, they either throw it away or use it the next day (and I am anti both). The steak sammys were incredible. Normally I am super anti sauce on steak but the sauces, that one included, were fantastic. The duck bites were great as well.
(5)
Mary K.
TG is a tapas-style restaurant, definitely not a tapas restaurant. They serve only beer and wine, though good selections of both, actually way more than the limited food menu. The waitstaff seem to be the bar staff also, which slowed things down a bit. Delivery of food was problematic, at least at first. We were starving, so ordered some olive and nuts along with feta cheese to eat before other dinner items arrived. We never got the feta, and the olives and nuts came after the salad, which we didn't get until 40 minutes after we arrived (& the restaurant was not even 1/2 full at that point). All the other dishes arrived in quick succession, so we had three dishes that didn't really go together. Our waitress was very attentive to our food sensitivities, but forgot one item as a result of checking back and forth between the chef and us. Seems they could use one more waiter, as the hostess was hustling the whole night helping with drinks, bussing, and food delivery. Best item was duck leg - very generous portion, but only a tiny bit of the beet & fennel "salad" advertised with it. Duck fat potatoes were also very tasty, but a bit too much fat for the amount of potatoes. Black mussels with creamy tomato sauce were also quite good, but couldn't be altered for garlic sensitivity (came with garlic toast, and waitress didn't bring a non-garlic piece, which seemed easy enough to do). Chopped salad was tasty also, but a bit on the sweet side with candied almonds, mandarin oranges, strawberries, and dried cherries. Would have like more veggie options, which was expected since it's summer. Strawberry balsamic shortbread was yummy, but would have been better with fresh whipped cream and less of it. One of the biggest drawbacks to this restaurant is its ambiance, which is sorely lacking. The decor is dark and drab. We saw only one flower bouquet near the bar, and no candles on the table, which would have helped in the dark interior. The patio looks nice, but it looks out into a stripmall parking lot. We'll be back, but not as quickly as we thought we would after hearing about it.
(3)
Ruth G.
Everything at Temper Grille is phenomenal and if u have not tried the steak bits you have tooooo. My co-worker and best friend Elvern Cooks took me to Temper Grille for the first time and I am hooked. My husband and I enjoy the atmosphere and the food very much. My husband loves the duck bites too. Also the cream corn is out of this world and I have never been a cream corn person, but once you try this corn you too will be hooked.
(5)
Michael W.
Temper has a small dining room, and some of the seats have no back rests. The tables are small, which could present a problem if more than one tapas arrives simultaneously. I liked the lamb pops, lobster bites, and the hummus. I didn't care much for the expensive crab cakes. Prices seem high for the quality of the food. The service was very good.
(3)
Worthy T.
This is my second time going. They had me at the lamb pops when I was getting my groupoun. The lamb pops were amazing!! I love the mini steak chimmi's. The chimmichurri sauce complimented very well with the steak and avocado. The steak bites were my weakness, I didn't want to share. We asked for the bites to be well done and to my surprise the steak wasn't dry but tender and juicy. It was the best steak I've ever had in a long time! I wish I had it with the macaroni and cheese. The customer service was great! It's a great place to go for some good tapas !!!
(5)
Josh W.
The food was good but not worth the price. Especially when it's something you could make at home just as good. Our server was slow and didn't come to our table to see us very many times witch I personally didn't like. The place is very small and clumsy at times. I'm no chef but I have no doubt I could chop up some beef or pork, grill it real quick, throw some fancy sauce on it, put in a fancy bowl and sell it to you for 20 dollars. I've been here twice now and my first experience was the same. I wanted to give it another try to see if it was better and it was not.
(2)
Jimmy W.
I've traveled the world, eaten in some of the best restaurants in France, Spain, Germany, Italy, etc., and I still call this one of the best places I've ever gone to. I cannot recommend this place enough. It's not cheap but it's well worth the cost.
(5)
Bonnie B.
Service was poor. Ignored by the bartenders & waitresses for nearly 10 minutes as they scurried past me. Not even an acknowledgment though I was sitting in the middle of others they were serving at the bar. New presentation - ruined the shrimp bites. Was encouraged to share my input with the owner/chef who shrugged me off rudely and said that he liked them. Well, he can buy his own crappy food and service as far as I'm concerned. Will never waste my money here again.
(1)
Amber P.
We love coming to Temper Grille for business dinners and date night. It has been hit or miss with service. We have a great time most of the time but we have had the same server twice, unfortunately on our anniversary and Valentine's Day, and we were ignored and never brought more wine. We love the food, especially the steak bites, brie en croute and mac and cheese. It is neat that the menu always changes, too!
(4)
Rob O.
By far, the best restaurant in the area. From the smoked pork belly tacos to the roasted red pepper & garbanzo bean soup -- the menu is so eclectic. I'm not one for writing reviews, but Temper deserves it. Must try if you are in the area. Everything on the menu is fantastic.
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : No Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Trendy Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : Yes Dogs Allowed : No Waiter Service : Yes Caters : Yes
Kailey L.
Holy cow this is probably my new favorite restaurant. The prices are a little up there ($85 for two) however the food is phenomenal. The sea bass is out of this world. I was a little disappointed in the salmon because it was served cold and I'm not huge on cold fish but it was still pretty tasty! We got macaroni and cheese and asparagus for our sides and both were delicious. At that time we definitely could have eaten more but with two beers on top of that we decided to just get dessert and not over stuff ourselves. We ordered the strawberry shortcake and the chef also sent us out the chocolate truffles. I don't think my taste buds have ever exploded more! I'm craving the truffles from just writing about them haha! They had a decent beer selection and a long wine list but of course they were out of the wine I wanted (I feel like this always happens to me) so we stuck with beer. The service was a little slow even with the restaurant only being about half full on a Saturday but overall I was almost as pleased as my taste buds. We will definitely be returning soon!
(4)Heather B.
My favorite restaurant in this area, by far. The new look and feel is awesome! I took my mom here last night and we chose the baked brie, crab cakes, and pork bites. Everything was delicious! Service was great. I always look forward to getting the waiter they have, but we had Brandy last night and she was great too. I have never been disappointed by Temper Grille! Keep up the great work...your restaurant rocks!
(5)M. G.
Wow, fabulous food. Ate here once and tried many dishes. All choices were tasty and unique. I recommend this place. The booths (newly remodeled) are too deep for the height of the tables so your chin is practically rests on the table. Ask for a table with chairs. Don't go with too large of a group. They can't accommodate you comfortably. We had 6 and were cramped. The glare form the setting sun can make it so you squint and can't see those across the booth from you. Perhaps they will get some window coverings or tinting to fix this problem.
(5)Linsey W.
This is my favorite place in Michiana! The shareable plates allow you to try multiple dishes. I've never had a bad experience here and love how frequently new items are offered as the seasons allow. Also, they frequently offer a Groupon to allow you to get your feet wet at a discounted price. I cannot recommend highly enough! The duck bites and strawberry shortcake are always a must!
(5)Michaele L.
This place is great! The menu has always offered great options, definitely worth trying many things. I recently ordered the baked Brie and it was delicious! The atmosphere is pretty cool as well, with the wine cork wall and the wine bottle overhead lamp on the bar. One of the best things about this place is they often have a Groupon deal of $15 for $30. With such a selection of wines, beers, and tapas, your bill can get pricey. So it does make it nice to have the Groupon deal.
(4)Shirley B.
Ok, I've given this restaurant several chances. The food is good but it appears to be slipping. Feels like some corner cutting is taking place. You have to order a lot to come away satisfied and then it gets pretty pricey. Plus, fine dining is more than just food. The atmosphere is bad, starting with the tables right in front of the doors, to the booths with seats that feel like you're sitting on wooden planks, to the bar and bathroom which both look like they are fresh out of a brothel. Cross your fingers that you'll get a high top seat, as it's away from the door and much more comfortable than the other options. And, at a high top your feet are off the cement floor which will chill you to the bone in the winter. While I enjoy the salad, duck bites, and Mac and cheese, I think I'm done with this place. There are better options which are also close to Granger like Yesterday's, Ruth's Chris, and my new favorite Rocky River(or some name like that). Ok, I wasn't going to go there, but I see others have and I feel it needs to be said: the chef/owner needs to pull himself together and take a few courses on customer service. He is NOT doing us a huge favor by slinging food and when there is a problem with the food(and it doesn't happen often) he comes unglued. I'm not sure if he's watched a few too many episodes of Hell's Kitchen or if that's just how he is, but when he comes out of the kitchen, the whole mood in the dining room changes for the worst. He needs a manager who has the authority to deal with customer issues and he should just stay in the kitchen.
(2)Renee S.
Time and time again, Temper Grille never disappoints us. Whether we dine in or meet them at the local chili cook off (who my son kept going back for more) they are great. Sean has this down and his staff is top notch. Love the chilean sea bass, lamb lollipops, mussels, mmmmm my mouth is watering now! You will spend a bit here, but its a meal that you will want more of. MMMMM.
(5)Jose L.
Great place for tapas.
(5)Christo L.
Great food, great service! Just the right place for those who like to have and try a variety of different well-made dishes.
(5)Jp S.
This is a general review over every time I've been to Temper. It's never been disappointing. I think i've tried just about everything on the menu, and while I have my favorites (Steak Bites YES PLEASE) their is not a single item I wouldn't order again. Occasionally Sean will have a sushi night, and it's by far the best in town. His wine selection is 2nd to none. I go to many wine dinner's in town, and Temper's wine nights are the event of the month. No one puts on a better event than them. As I write this review I have started to think about the service. Going to one place many times you are bound to run into a lackluster night service wise, except at Temper. You are always treated like you own the place. I think it's a requirement that every server try everything on the menu, because never once have I heard, I haven't tried that but others say it's great. The staff is just as if not more top notch then the food.
(5)Bonnie B.
Service was poor. Ignored by the bartenders & waitresses for nearly 10 minutes as they scurried past me. Not even an acknowledgment though I was sitting in the middle of others they were serving at the bar. New presentation - ruined the shrimp bites. Was encouraged to share my input with the owner/chef who shrugged me off rudely and said that he liked them. Well, he can buy his own crappy food and service as far as I'm concerned. Will never waste my money here again.
(1)Amber P.
We love coming to Temper Grille for business dinners and date night. It has been hit or miss with service. We have a great time most of the time but we have had the same server twice, unfortunately on our anniversary and Valentine's Day, and we were ignored and never brought more wine. We love the food, especially the steak bites, brie en croute and mac and cheese. It is neat that the menu always changes, too!
(4)Rob O.
By far, the best restaurant in the area. From the smoked pork belly tacos to the roasted red pepper & garbanzo bean soup -- the menu is so eclectic. I'm not one for writing reviews, but Temper deserves it. Must try if you are in the area. Everything on the menu is fantastic.
(5)Janet Y.
My boyfriend and I LOVE this place! We have gone to the other downtown South Bend restaurants and Temper Grill is by far the best. It is a tapas - STYLE restaurant. It is not tapas. You do need reservations but bar seating is typically available. I can never decide on what to eat, so this place is perfect. I haven't tried anything I haven't liked. Their mac and cheese and steak bites are always great choices. The last few times our bill after taxes + tip with drinks, 5 plates and dessert was $120. This is now our go - to restaurant.
(5)A K.
first of all, tapas is anything BUT slow and this place is dreadfully slow. For south bend area this place has decent food but quality/speed to price ratio is way off. I will probably not go back here again. But i suppose if you are looking for something different then it's worth to check it out for your self. Be warned you're in for hour and a half to two hours for a normal meal, so have some time on your hands.
(2)Worthy T.
This is my second time going. They had me at the lamb pops when I was getting my groupoun. The lamb pops were amazing!! I love the mini steak chimmi's. The chimmichurri sauce complimented very well with the steak and avocado. The steak bites were my weakness, I didn't want to share. We asked for the bites to be well done and to my surprise the steak wasn't dry but tender and juicy. It was the best steak I've ever had in a long time! I wish I had it with the macaroni and cheese. The customer service was great! It's a great place to go for some good tapas !!!
(5)Jimmy W.
I've traveled the world, eaten in some of the best restaurants in France, Spain, Germany, Italy, etc., and I still call this one of the best places I've ever gone to. I cannot recommend this place enough. It's not cheap but it's well worth the cost.
(5)Josh W.
The food was good but not worth the price. Especially when it's something you could make at home just as good. Our server was slow and didn't come to our table to see us very many times witch I personally didn't like. The place is very small and clumsy at times. I'm no chef but I have no doubt I could chop up some beef or pork, grill it real quick, throw some fancy sauce on it, put in a fancy bowl and sell it to you for 20 dollars. I've been here twice now and my first experience was the same. I wanted to give it another try to see if it was better and it was not.
(2)Tom S.
Apparently I missed the memo that you need reservations. My spouse and I stopped in as we heard good things about this place from co-workers. Was a bit surprised by the night club feel and how small the place was. No one bothered to acknowledge us after we walked in so we started for a booth thinking maybe it was a seat yourself situation. That sure got the attention of the staff. The waitress ran over and actually blocked our path before we reached the booth asking if we had reservations. The place was half empty. We were a bit surprised and said no. She offered some seating at the bar but she was rude and had the attitude she didn't really want us to stay. No problem. We left and had a good laugh. Pretentious restaurant in a strip mall. Fabulous.
(1)Brian E.
The best restaurant I have been to in the area. Much better than corndance. They were out of bacon wrapped dates which was disappointing but the we were there at 8:15 and the idea is to make fresh, delicious food so that type of thing happens. Let's put it this way, if a restaurant doesn't run out of something, they either throw it away or use it the next day (and I am anti both). The steak sammys were incredible. Normally I am super anti sauce on steak but the sauces, that one included, were fantastic. The duck bites were great as well.
(5)Beth L.
I get the idea of sharing. We were looking forward to that, but the prices were ridiculous for what you got and food was mediocre at best. There are so many better places to go to in the area that we won't waste our time or money there again.
(1)Kirill G.
The food was rather good, but even after making a representation we had to wait for 20 minutes to get sited.
(3)Camden D.
First off, this place is NOT tapas. I was very excited when I heard there was a tapas restaurant that had opened in the area, I grew up eating Spanish Tapas food and miss it terribly! But it is not, it is tapas-STYLE! So once I got over that fact, I was ready to see what this tapas style restaurant had to offer and it turned out to be delicious!! We sat next to a couple that had clearly been there before and went with a few of their suggestions, which turned out to be awesome! We ended up ordering the Mini Steak Chimmis, Mac and Cheese (plain), asparagus, creamed corn, and hummus. All of which sounded good, but I didn't expect to be so blown away by those dishes! They were all really really great!! We also had the intention to keep ordering dishes, but after just those dishes our table of 4 was stuffed! We all had two beers and after splitting the bill by 4 our bill was $20.61..... Come on! Amazing! We did order mostly side dishes rather than the Main dishes which had a much higher price point, but it was plenty of food for us and I can't wait to go back and try many of the other items on the menu, but now I'm hooked on the ones I ordered last time! Overall it was a great experience! But a few notes to know for first timers- you do need reservations, it will look closed as you walk up to the building, there is no hostess stand and you will feel awkward just walking into the middle of the dining room, it is terribly quiet in there (they really need SOME music playing), but just keep going!!! It's worth it and it's delicious!
(5)Rich D.
Delicious meal for our anniversary. Highly recommend the duck bites and Sammies. Service was good. Would have gotten 5 stars but there was a hiccup that one of our plates was lost in the shuffle. Overall, we would go back in a heartbeat. Had a very enjoyable meal FYI, I wouldn't ding the food or server for this but upon asking for iced tea, found out it was canned. Passed on that. Not too much there for a non beer/wine drinker. Not a negative, just be informed
(4)Epicureans U.
I don't count people who do only do two reviews and rip a place to pieces as a quality review. As the event coordinator for Granger Restaurant Week. All menus are marked clearly. Here is what the Temper Grille menu has on it. For Example: Choose One Starches, Veggies and More Mac & Cheese Add Pork Belly $5 Add Roasted Peppers $2 Add Lobster Knuckle Meat $15 Add Blackened Shrimp $8 IF it says ADD and there is a price next to it. IT WILL BE ON YOUR BILL. If you want the original mac and cheese...no additional price. It is unfortunate that some people take to Yelp to have their emotional moments instead of solving them at the restaurant. Temper Grille is a well established local tapas restaurant. People need to read their menus and not be upset when they miss an upgrade price. Taking it out on the owner is not really good conflict management and posting a questionable true review is not really QUALITY conflict management. and definitely poor customer service on the part of the customer.
(5)Mary K.
TG is a tapas-style restaurant, definitely not a tapas restaurant. They serve only beer and wine, though good selections of both, actually way more than the limited food menu. The waitstaff seem to be the bar staff also, which slowed things down a bit. Delivery of food was problematic, at least at first. We were starving, so ordered some olive and nuts along with feta cheese to eat before other dinner items arrived. We never got the feta, and the olives and nuts came after the salad, which we didn't get until 40 minutes after we arrived (& the restaurant was not even 1/2 full at that point). All the other dishes arrived in quick succession, so we had three dishes that didn't really go together. Our waitress was very attentive to our food sensitivities, but forgot one item as a result of checking back and forth between the chef and us. Seems they could use one more waiter, as the hostess was hustling the whole night helping with drinks, bussing, and food delivery. Best item was duck leg - very generous portion, but only a tiny bit of the beet & fennel "salad" advertised with it. Duck fat potatoes were also very tasty, but a bit too much fat for the amount of potatoes. Black mussels with creamy tomato sauce were also quite good, but couldn't be altered for garlic sensitivity (came with garlic toast, and waitress didn't bring a non-garlic piece, which seemed easy enough to do). Chopped salad was tasty also, but a bit on the sweet side with candied almonds, mandarin oranges, strawberries, and dried cherries. Would have like more veggie options, which was expected since it's summer. Strawberry balsamic shortbread was yummy, but would have been better with fresh whipped cream and less of it. One of the biggest drawbacks to this restaurant is its ambiance, which is sorely lacking. The decor is dark and drab. We saw only one flower bouquet near the bar, and no candles on the table, which would have helped in the dark interior. The patio looks nice, but it looks out into a stripmall parking lot. We'll be back, but not as quickly as we thought we would after hearing about it.
(3)Ruth G.
Everything at Temper Grille is phenomenal and if u have not tried the steak bits you have tooooo. My co-worker and best friend Elvern Cooks took me to Temper Grille for the first time and I am hooked. My husband and I enjoy the atmosphere and the food very much. My husband loves the duck bites too. Also the cream corn is out of this world and I have never been a cream corn person, but once you try this corn you too will be hooked.
(5)Michael W.
Temper has a small dining room, and some of the seats have no back rests. The tables are small, which could present a problem if more than one tapas arrives simultaneously. I liked the lamb pops, lobster bites, and the hummus. I didn't care much for the expensive crab cakes. Prices seem high for the quality of the food. The service was very good.
(3)Joshua B.
It's a quaint place with Fantastic food. My wife and I visit once a month. The smoked salmon with mac and cheese is great. The lamb pops are overrated. Small and not that tasty. The other menu items are worth trying.
(4)David G.
Wonderful food and service but pricey -- it made me wish I was billing to a corporate account. A great place to come for a treat.
(5)Shanna M.
I will start off by saying that our waitress was excellent, accommodating and gave great recommendations. With that being said I felt the restaurant was nothing special. The table we were seated at was extremely small especially considering the fact that we had several plates on our table. The food we ordered was only so-so and the selection available on the menu was nothing to talk about. I loved the idea of a Tapas restaurant in South Bend, especially considered the massive amount of chain restaurants we have here but I was expecting to be wowed by the food and left very disappointed.
(2)Ike T.
My wife and I love this place. Dress is casual, and the restaurant is cozy. Items are made to be shared. We usually order 3-4 items on the menu and have tried about everything on the menu and they have not disappointed us. My wife's favorites are the duck and steak bites. I love the lamb pops and lobster bites.
(4)Jen K.
Normally I don't go to places that yelling radio hosts recommend. This is an exception. No one yelling here, just time for chilling and sharing. Nice place, with a menu that keeps rotating but never gets worse. I also didn't have any slowness issues with service though I can see the place get too full. It would be nice if the place was less dark though, this nightclubbish feel doesn't fit tapas eating.
(4)David J.
I shoot photographs for feature articles on Michiana's best restaurants and recently had the privilege of visiting Chef Sean Kelley's 'Temper Grill'. What a great experience! Simply put, I loved it! The staff was perfectly attentive, the setting was intimate and upscale, fabulous wines and Chef Sean paid personal attention to the perfection of each and every dish placed in front of us. I liked dishes that I didn't necessarily expect to like, and LOVED the one's I eagerly anticipated. Worth noting is the fact that the restaurant serves adults 21 and over ONLY, and the bar seems to be 'wine only'. Try a bottle of the Duckhorn Merlot! I've posted a few of the photos I took that evening, but the food was even better than it looked! I promise! As for value - truly one of the best investments you can make in a Michiana evening. NO QUESTION! I think you should go...
(5)John F.
Dynamite! We loved our steak bites, lobster bites and arugula salad. The Greek cheese soaked in brandy and flamed table-side was delightful. Good selection of wine by the glass and wide selection of wine by the bottle. Looked like quite a beer list , too. We'll try to return tonight.
(5)Kim D.
Love the food & change of menu!! Great date night place! The seating area is small, not meant for families. We usually wait for Groupon deals to come through before visiting. That way we can order more dishes!! Love how everything is to share and come sour when it's ready instead if all at once.
(5)Sherry G.
Would never go back again. If you like very small portions, rude waitstaff and a totally pretentious place to eat, then this is the place for you. This is South Bend after all. Food was good, what there was of it. Very unconcerned owner/chef. Rude, insulting person. Felt very uncomfortable there eating alone on a weekend. Was ignored totally by my waitress and reported this to the owner. Waited four days to hear back from the owner. Never called. When he did call, accused me of trying to get something for free from him. I didn't want anything from him, because I had no intention of ever going back there. And to think I came out in a heavy snowstorm to eat there. I've lived in various major metropolitan areas around the country and this was the first time this has ever happened. Save your money and go to a restaurant that not only has good food, but gives reasonable portions and where they certainly appreciate your business!
(1)Huyen L.
Delicious food- Get the NY Strip with the roasted red pepper sauce and the Ahi Tuna! If you can swing it, the lobster mac and cheese is melt in your mouth tasty! Make sure you go during Restaurant Week, too. The deal is unbeatable!
(5)Cassie S.
We always go planning to try something new, but the steak bites and redskin potatoes are just too good to pass up. The spicy feta is also one if our favorites. Excellent service, amazing atmosphere, delicious food, there is often a groupon available. What's not to love!
(5)Jennyfer N.
We came here recently with some family members to sample the dinner menu. I came with predominately meat/potato eaters so we ended up having to eat elsewhere afterwards because they were still hungry. I love the idea of tapas. It makes sense, You should sample a lot of different little things so that the dining experience can be fresh and your palate doesn't get tired of the usual meat and two veg dilemma. It's very similar to dim sum and other Asian style restaurants. However... Most of the food offered was pretty standard fare. And I'll just say it, 12 dollars for 6-8 bites of food is just not at all affordable on most people's budgets unless 1) you can subsist on little or 2) you have a good job that pays for that type of luxury. While I appreciate their aesthetic, it just wasn't...exciting. And I understand this dynamic. As an avid food enthusiast, I've paid ridiculous sums of money for exotic bites of food at sushi joints. I admit, it's a bit ridiculous but you're paying also for an experience, a new way at looking at something. Here...grilled steak? Pan seared pork? Cold sliced steak? It's dressing up what is ordinary fare. For my 12 bucks, I'd rather go to the grocery store, grab a pork tenderloin/ cut of filet mignon and sear it myself. Maybe I could get a potato out of that 12 dollars and call it a meal. But hey, that's the frugal side of me. Bottom line, if you sell it as "tapas" then I want to be excited about it. I just wasn't quite impressed with what we ordered. We got steak bites, pork bites, an order of Mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, a sliced steak chimichurri dish, and then my tomato mozzarella stack. The sea bass with mango wasn't even that exciting of a sell. Now...I will say, the tomato mozzarella stack was delicious. But then again, tomato, mozzarella, and balsamic has been a proven match for years. Not anything new to me. I supposed I expect too much from this and it may just be that this area doesn't have a whole lot of exposure to different dining styles and cuisines. But honestly, I wasn't that impressed. We went to Main Street Pub afterwards and had pulled pork nachos. WAY more exciting. And cheaper too.
(3)Jason R.
Fantastic tapas spot! The menu is a bit on the short side, but everything we have ordered is excellent. After living in Chicago, I missed a good tapas restaurant. This definitely fits the need! Staff is friendly, accommodating, and easy going. The chocolate truffles are remarkable. Cozy, trendy atmosphere, that is very welcoming and casual.
(5)Michele K.
While on vacation in Three Rivers we ventured to Temper where we enjoyed some of the best food we'd ever eaten. The waitstaff is so pleasent & knowledgeable about their many wines they have to offer. And the white sangria? Let's just say..... we tried to shake down Sean, the owner, for his recipe. The food came to our table in perfect staggered stages allowing us to share and enjoy so many delicious and unique flavors. I need to come back to try everything on that menu. I recommend you make the drive to try Temper Grille! And seriously. Save room for truffles.
(5)Chelsea W.
The Temper Grille is a MUST when you're in the Notre Dame/South Bend area. Both my boyfriend and colleague agree that we have to stop when we're in town. I haven't had a bad thing on their menu, I love the atmosphere and the dining experience is fun overall.
(5)Jill M.
I have to say that when it comes to dining out I have high expectations. I expect high quality food and REMARKABLE customer service. I do not mind paying for either. I received neither this weekend at Temper Grille. I also expect that when I register a complaint that I am treated with respect. I do not always expect to get my way, and I would never try and take advantage of local establishment. As a member of the customer service industry and nationwide trainer, I understand how to manage conflict and resolve situations without causing further damage. This establishment is in need of some serious customer service training. My friend and I happened to participate in a promotion for Granger Food Week. The menu had indicated that certain item we an upgrade and you would be charged extra. No big deal. We ordered one upgrade, enjoyed the meal for the most part (don't get the crab cakes...they were very fishy and mushy). When our bill came, I was shocked to see that we were charged an extra $15 dollars...the menu wasn't very clear - we misread it - completely our fault. I said that I didn't think we should have to pay for the upgrade because we didn't see the extra cost. In retrospect, I probably shouldn't have said anything...but I thought it was worth mentioning. Maybe other people could have been confused as well. Well, here's where it gets interesting. The owner came out with awful look on his face and says (in a horrible tone)..."what's the problem"? He was seething. (Just so you know, I was polite but direct...I wasn't causing some type of scene) He didn't say, how may I help you or I'm sorry for your misunderstanding, but instead..."what's the problem?" Then he proceeds to point to the menu and say...it says right here that this mac n cheese is extra. "Well, I guess I should just change my whole menu since you can't read it". He was insinuating that I was stupid and/or illiterate. I was completely in shock. The thing is...I would have and did pay the extra 15 dollars - OMG when you are dropping $50 on dinner it's not like it's a big deal. I guess I just wanted them to know that the menu wasn't clear. I have never in my life been treated so poorly. But I guess this establishment just doesn't care about customer service. I don't care how ridiculous your customers are...they are customers. They are paying your salary and keeping you in business. You should be kind. Kindness can make an upset customer with a misunderstanding see things differently. I will never set foot in this restaurant again and believe me...the food isn't worth the rude folks and cramped atmosphere. Take your business down to LaSalle Grill - the Tavern is amazing (oh, and they're nice to you there).
(1)Amy H.
I frequent Temper Grille regularly and it never fails to impress. The restaurant is small, but comfortable and the service is always right on. The portion sizes are larger than typical tapas restaurants and reasonably priced. Some of our favorite menu items include the steak bites, mac and cheese, edamame and stuffed chicken. The soups and wraps are great for lunch. Chef Sean is always coming up with new creations - last night we had the sliders and the bite size blueberry cheesecakes for dessert and both were wonderful. If you haven't been, you need to go!
(5)Mable A.
Food is great. Regardless of the service I'd never discount the great food. Seems most reviews including my own have one common denominator. The owner/chef should try and lighten up. You own a lovely restaurant with great food! Even great sake martins. That's pretty awesome. Anyone should be able to handle criticism on any level. Great food, I wouldn't allow a few complaints to rile you up. It's almost sad that something as small as an annoyingly rude owner can keep people from some really good dishes. But I guess it's not always fun to encounter a pouting adult.
(3)Lynlee M.
Super good! My husband and I went on a Groupon and we will be back. The food is fresh and was obviously made with quality ingredients. The food came out fresh and nice and hot.
(5)Jake R.
I went in to try Temper after reading so many great reviews. The restaurant was half full but no tables were available until 9....we were told. We were sent to the bar...no problem, but then dressed down by the goth-lipped bartender and for the next three minutes we were told what would be and how it would be. Then I read the top of the menu. I am not quoting exactly here but had I been able to gracefully take the menu with me, I would have so I could give it to you exactly. Don't like how long it takes? Too bad. Don't like our chipped dishes? Tough. Be nice to our servers. Deal with our attitude. You are lucky to be here. We really could care less about you or the effort you made to be here. We got up and left before drinks came and we wouldn't go back under any circumstances. This rudeness isn't schtick. It's bad business.
(1)Sara H.
Tried it for the first time after purchasing a Groupon. I think it was a good place to go for a date night because of the ambience and the style of food; tapas. You are forced (in a good way) to share food and have conversation. There is not another restaurant around here like it. Our server was very good at recommending items for us to try since it was our first visit and we got the perfect amount. They also have an excellent beer and wine selection. My complaint is that Temper Grille, or maybe the owner, seem a bit pretentious. I think part of that is location. But the main reason I say that is because there is a disclaimer on the menu written by the owner and it basically says "This is my restaurant. I will serve you food when I want the way I want and you better not complain or do anything I don't like or you will be asked to leave. You need me, I don't need you". Maybe its not meant in the context I took it, but it was off-putting enough that it makes me not want to go back, even though there are other items I would like to try.
(3)Lisa R.
Thrilled to say that the hubs and I continue to have amazing experiences here! Never fails to impress! Service is always spot on, not too rushed nor too slow. Excellent section of wines in all price ranges and haven't had a bad choice from the menu yet! We love that it's an "over 21 to enter" restaurant so we can have a great time reconnecting and dining with other adults always! Chef Sean really has a great thing going, hope he doesn't change a thing!
(5)Jeremy V.
We've been to Temper Grille on many occasions, and have yet to be disappointed. After all these visits we've tried pretty much everything on the menu, plus whatever specials chef has going on at the time. The flaming cheese has to be one of my favorite things. I could eat five plates of that myself. But everything else from the lamb pops, chicken marsala, steak, tuna, pork, has all been just fantastic. Cooked properly, great flavor, and no real downside other than wishing you had twice as much on the plate. The waitstaff has been fantastic, fun, and friendly. They will joke with us at the table, etc. Last time we were there we had five people, and one of the the plates only came with four portions, but she went ahead made sure there were five portions so that we could all get a full piece. The only downside, if you can even call it that, is that it is tad pricey. So if you're a big eater looking to fill up on a 20 dollar meal, this place may not be for you. But it's perfect for a night out with a group of friends where you want to spend an evening and enjoy some good wine, good food, and try new things. Can't wait to go back yet again.
(5)Allen M.
Damn, I wish they would open an outpost in Oak Park, Illinois. We were on a car trip and I found this place on the web. Really glad I did. The small plates were perfect for us. At home we each order an entre and take half of it home. We are OLD and have small appetites. When you go, do not miss the restrooms!
(5)Kristin M.
I've been a semi-weekly regular at Temper for at least six months. On the positive side, the waitstaff has always been very friendly and accommodating. There was a group there tonight smoking cigars on the patio dining area. When someone at my table mentioned it to our server, she said that they were aware of the problem and would take care of it. The smokers moved approximately 2 feet away from the dining area, and no further action was taken - disappointing. We were interested in the cheese plate, but the menu described it as coming with "cured meats", which didn't interest my party. We asked if they would substitute all cheeses, and our server asked the chef, but returned to tell us that it couldn't be changed, but that the plate only included a "garnish" of meat. When it arrived, it was three different meats and three cheeses - clearly half meat and not a garnish. Our server smiled uncomfortably when we were disappointed. I understand if a substitution isn't allowed, but I wish we'd had the opportunity to order something different. Like Kristen M, I'm hoping tonight was a fluke, but it was a major disappointment. I tried to talk to the manager in a constructive way as we left, since the menu has changed fairly recently, but he told me I was wrong (the smokers moved 3 feet away and not two, there wasn't as much meat as I thought on that plate, etc.). I didn't want to argue with him, and he didn't want my feedback. I hope that the cigar crowd is a group of regulars who will bring lots of business to Temper, because I'm no longer recommending it to the South Bend visitors that I encounter at work. From now on, I'll send them to Corndance, Cafe Navarre, Wheatberry, Fiddler's Hearth, and other non-chain restaurants that consistently deliver.
(2)Elaine L.
Love the intimate setting, the wine and the steak bites!
(5)Kristen J.
Just when I thought worse couldn't get worse it sure did. From the overly loud, bad music coupled with weird, raw pork chunks - I'm outta here!!!! In and out in less then half hour. Chef caught my mental vomit when I saw the raw pork and sent it back. Sure to be spit in LOL so I'm not touching it! He looked on with disgust - what happened to customer service?? Houlihan's South Bend looking' good right about now ! Oxymoron yes, I know......desperate times = desperate measures! 2 stars because (1) ambience for South Bend is a plus & (2) I'm still hanging onto a past better experience. Here's hoping my last visit was a fluke.
(2)Deb M.
Temper grill is my go to place for dinner. Fro. The steak bites to the chicken marsala, you can't go wrong for dinner. The dining room is smaller and you need to make a reservation- but the small plates idea is a great idea for friends to share and have a variety of dishes. One suggestion though- go for the chocolate truffles not the balsamic strawberries with grilled cake.
(5)Tom K.
I am a big fan of deals and trying new places. Last year, I took advantage of an online deal for this place and really glad I did. I made a reservation and when my friend and I went in I had wondered why I had bothered since only one other couple were there. In less than 15 minutes the place was packed. The portions of the food were enough for two people so be warned. We ordered the steak with red potatoes and onions and mac and cheese if I remember correctly - it was amazing! My only issue was that the server was kinda weird when I mentioned the online deal and gee I thought the intent of this was to get new people to try the place - you woudl think - hey be nice but oh well. My only complaints would be that the choice of alcohol selection was so so and the desserts could have more selections. I would strongly recommend this place but do call ahead since it is a small room and they are NOT open on Sunday and Monday.
(5)Stacy O.
Dined here tonight, inspired by the LivingSocial coupon. Though we would have found our way here eventually, I'm grateful to Living Social for expediting the adventure. The food is served tapas style, which means you should plan to share with others in your party. Strategically decide with your group what you're going to order because you won't want to miss anything! We started with baked brie with berry compote. From there, we tried the tequila lime chicken, steak bites, New York strip, macaroni and cheese, and Ahi tuna. We also ordered a side of vegetables (grilled green beans and onions on the night we were there). By the time we cleaned off the last plate, we were happily stuffed and sad we hadn't saved room for the amazing desserts we saw servers carrying out of the kitchen. A highlight of Temper Grille is their extensive wine selection. Check out the two page wine menu and order by the glass to create your own pairing menu, or split a bottle with your party for a reasonable cost. At this time, they don't serve beer or liquor, but the wine menu provides more than enough options. I strongly recommend making reservations. The seating area is small and we saw several people leave because there were no tables available. Don't miss this gem in Granger -- it's worth traveling off the beaten and tired paths of Grape Road and Main Street.
(4)Em J.
Creative Cuisine and a Glowing 5-Star Review: We have been meaning to try the Temper Grille for the last year and a half. Well, finally we tried it on a whim. In short, it was a wonderful experience with marvelous food and an extensive and impressive wine list. If you've been convinced, stop reading here and go check it out for yourself. If you want more details, read on: It was a Friday evening and they were completely booked out; however, they did have room for us at the bar. Normally, this would be a turn-off, but we actually enjoyed sitting there and getting personal attention and the 'inside scoop' from both Brandi, the bartender, and Chef Sean as he came out of the kitchen to check on things. First the restaurant: It is an intimate place, which is boldly, yet tastefully, decorated. The acoustics are excellent and make for easy conversation with your dining partners. There is seating for about 42 people at tables, another 6+ at the bar, and best of all, room for about another 24+ people out on the terrace. (Unfortunately, this chilly Northern Indiana spring day precluded us from sitting outside.) Next, on to the wine: They have a superb wine list and a bartender who really knows her selections and pairings. Here you will find wines that you may not find at other restaurants. The prices are good and many wines are available by the glass and by the bottle. Bottles seem to be a good deal and one day a week, I think it's Wednesday, they run a special on wines. Now, on to the food: Temper Grille is a tapas-style restaurant. Basically, similar to most tapas places... order several menu items and share them with your dining partners. The only difference is, the portions are a bit larger than standard tapas, so if you aren't the sharing type, you can still have a wonderful meal. I would suggest try 3-5+ items per 3 people... and leave some room for desert. If you have questions, the staff's suggestions are helpful in making selections. Everything we tried was delicious, expertly prepared, wonderfully plated and presented, and best of all, so very satisfying. This is a fun place to have a meal at an unhurried pace while enjoying the company of your dining partners. This place would be great for a romantic dinner, dinner with friends, or even a business dinner. Finally, a note on the staff: From the moment we entered, we were warmly greeted and made to feel welcome. Everyone that works there seems to enjoy what they are doing, know the food, and can carry on a conversation. Chef Sean is a talented and creative culinary artist. His offerings will both astound and amaze you. This restaurant is of Chicago caliber. Once you are dining here, you will forget that you are eating in Granger, Indiana. All my accolades and those of other reviewers are more than well-deserved. We can't wait to go back and try the restaurant again... Try it for yourself, you'll love it! Helpful hint: Make reservations.
(5)Keith A.
Tom S. Doesn't have a clue. 5 stars all the way. One of the best places in town with super friendly staff.
(5)Aditi G.
This place was a Groupon success! Went here with a couple friends and we got the spinach dip, stuffed chicken, and the portobello stack and they were all delicious. This place has great service, a small but intimate atmosphere and a vast array of different menu items to please anyone's palate! Also, there was a cute little old man playing piano all night! (He is there on Friday/Saturday)
(5)Lane M.
Our meal had considerable potential, but ultimately, it was quite unsatisfying. In general, the favors in the dishes were overdone and unbalanced. The portabella stack was served too hot. The moisture in the mushrooms retained the heat of the grill. That negated most of the flavor in the dish. We let it cool only to find its flavor fairly bland. The menu promised goat cheese in their stuffing and goat cheese it was. However, its goat flavor was so mild that it was difficult to distinguish the cheese from any other generic white melting cheese. The vegetables under the cheese simply did not fit the flavor profile of the dish or provide a pleasant texture. I specifically asked that our steak bits by grilled medium. They came nearly well done. I had heard this was a problem at the restaurant. The steak was tough and some pieces even dry (even a well done steak should never be dry). It was also over seasoned. There was a spice mix on it which would have been pleasant by itself, but the pieces were also drizzled with a sauce. That just created too much flavor. Again, no balance! The sauce did help mask the dryness of the meat which was a benefit. Everything they serve seems to be garnished with a mesclun mix. Not a bad thing, but gets boring. The leaves also wilt easily for hot dishes. We did enjoy the spinach dip with pita. I hope the pita was not microwaved, but I could not ultimately tell. They were slightly tough, but not terribly. We also had the baked brie. This was also fairly good. The compote was strange, however. The berries were pithy. Neither my homemade frozen berries nor canned jams have such a texture so I am not sure what was wrong with theirs. What was very strange, however, was serving the brie with pita! I cannot fathom what we were supposed to do with even more pita (which accompanied every dish save the mushrooms) especially with a traditional french dish. The seating was not comfortable. We were at one of your two person tables against the wall across from the bar. It is really a small space. It was difficult to manage all the plates on such a small table, especially since you did not gauge the timing of our dishes well. At one point we had three different dishes on our small table. Not necessary for a tapas place. Our table wobbled when we first arrived. I shimmed it up with a few gum wrappers. A stable table is a must. The dining room tables should be checked regularly. We also sat across from a couple who were obviously friends of either the chef or another cook. He came and visited them a number of times during the evening. He seemed in a rather bad mood as their conversation was usually fairly hushed. It was distracting to have him back and forth. It was also odd that he never asked up how our meal was. He was cooking it after all. It was probably for the best, however. It would have taken too long to discuss my feelings at the point. This restaurant has potential. It is advertised as an American style tapas bar. That is exactly what it is! Americans tend to overdo things (note big pickup trucks). The food tasted very midwest in its seasonings and style. There needs to be more refinement to fit both the dish that the menu envisioned and the price they ask. I hope these comments can be taken positively to improve the dining experience.
(2)Scott M.
A variety of generous and delicious dishes suited to a discerning palate. The Mac & Cheese-the best I've ever had. This was my first dining experience there, but certainly not my last.
(5)Catherine H.
It's always good to see a new local restaurant in the area, but to me, this one falls a little short. Although we enjoyed everything we ordered (the lamb was a standout), we left disappointed. Our server was not very helpful or knowledgeable about the menu. With a tapas/small plate concept, two people need to order 4-5+ dishes to have a complete meal. With two of glasses of wine, our bill was close to $100 (before tip). We were still hungry, and had to hit a drive-thru on the way home. For us to go back, there would need to be either more substantial portions, or some lower-priced options to fill out the menu. Seems like it would be a better place to go for a glass of wine and a late-night snack than to plan on it being your only dinner.
(3)Shayne S.
Great food...great atmosphere...great staff! What else could you ask for!
(5)Stephanie S.
Oh Temper Grille...FINALLY a great place to dine in the Granger area. I have dined here a handful of times and have yet to be disappointed. Some of my favorites I have tried are the mussels, steak bites, carpaccio, lamb lollipops and the list goes on. They always have great specials and a nice wine selection. The staff is friendly and attentive. Chef Sean knows what he is doing because this place is always packed. I would suggest calling ahead especially if there are more than 2 in your party.
(5)Autumn G.
Good food. I've been there four times and have never been really blown away. I really love their chocolate truffles. They also do Groupons pretty often so keep an eye out for those.
(4)Cara L.
I am happy to be able to give Temper Grille 5 stars now as all of their service issues have been ironed out and their dining experience is second to none! Chef Sean does a fabulous job of coming up with new, exciting menu items like his recent additions of lobster mac and cheese, lamb pops and strawberry shortcake with strawberries marinated in balsamic vinegarette. So, if you haven't yet tried this wonderful place - get there soon but be sure to call and make a reservations, tables fill up fast! I was there on a random Tuesday night and while it was 1/2 price bottles of wine night, every table was full. Great to see in this economy! The days will be getting warm soon so take advantage of their tables on the patio. Cheers to Chef Sean and congrats on your 1 years anniversary this month!
(5)Ethan H.
Get the steak bites! Oh... my... GOODNESS! I love this place!
(5)Tracy B.
Had dinner and drinks tonight with the girls. 2 of us had been here before and the others had not. We all had a wonderful experience. Our waitress was very helpful in helping us make great choices. We started with Steak bites and Edamame. Then all shared the Scallops (Yum!), Ahi Tuna and finished with the Fabulous Chocolate Truffles and a few bottles of Katherine Goldschmidt Cabernet! We also got to have a great visit with Chef Sean and sign a few corks for the wall. It was a great overall experience. Temper Grille is definitely our new Favorite! Can't wait to come back for more!
(5)Carly D.
This is a really quaint restaurant with cute decor for such a small place. I recommend making reservations. The waiter referred to the dining as "tapas-style" but I would just say it's a la mode b/c the portions aren't small like a real tapas restaurant serves. That being said, maybe it's just to encourage a sharing experience. We had a party of 6 and the booth they put us in was heavenly with comfy cushions and lots of space. The service was excellent - waiter was very professional. There was also a man playing a keyboard piano in the background - not too loud - which was very nice. We tried a little of everything on my menu - soups app (excellent), edemame (awesome w/ their lime salt!), seared tuna (so yum)...I could go on but it was all good.
(4)Kathy S.
If you're looking for a great place to unwind with delicious food and great wine, Temper Grille is the place to be! The food is excellent, served in small plates that are perfect for sharing -- and the wine selection is great -- the knowledgeable staff adds to the overall experience. For me, nothing is better on a warm afternoon than to sit on the patio with a cheese plate and a glass of pinot grigio -- followed by some of Chef Sean's AWESOME chocolate truffles
(5)Megan F.
lovely ambiance, food was great, steak bites were incredible!
(4)Manda H.
great food variety, accommodating staff, friendly and knowledgeable server. great place to dine with friends, though the restaurant is tiny. they really can't accommodate more than 4 at a time without some difficulty. will definitely be back!
(4)Sara H.
Well, I'm not sure that the person who gave this restaurant 3 stars actually knows what they are talking about. This place is DELICIOUS! steak bites... YUM LObster bites...yum, lobster Mac n cheese YUM! Sangria... Omg!!!! Stuffed chicken... WOW!! it is a little pricey, but for the taste of the food and the atmosphere designed for couples or a nice dinner, it's worth it. Don't forget to finish your dinner off with the Truffles... So good!!!
(5)Michaele L.
This place is great! The menu has always offered great options, definitely worth trying many things. I recently ordered the baked Brie and it was delicious! The atmosphere is pretty cool as well, with the wine cork wall and the wine bottle overhead lamp on the bar. One of the best things about this place is they often have a Groupon deal of $15 for $30. With such a selection of wines, beers, and tapas, your bill can get pricey. So it does make it nice to have the Groupon deal.
(4)Epicureans U.
I don't count people who do only do two reviews and rip a place to pieces as a quality review. As the event coordinator for Granger Restaurant Week. All menus are marked clearly. Here is what the Temper Grille menu has on it. For Example: Choose One Starches, Veggies and More Mac & Cheese Add Pork Belly $5 Add Roasted Peppers $2 Add Lobster Knuckle Meat $15 Add Blackened Shrimp $8 IF it says ADD and there is a price next to it. IT WILL BE ON YOUR BILL. If you want the original mac and cheese...no additional price. It is unfortunate that some people take to Yelp to have their emotional moments instead of solving them at the restaurant. Temper Grille is a well established local tapas restaurant. People need to read their menus and not be upset when they miss an upgrade price. Taking it out on the owner is not really good conflict management and posting a questionable true review is not really QUALITY conflict management. and definitely poor customer service on the part of the customer.
(5)Jen K.
Normally I don't go to places that yelling radio hosts recommend. This is an exception. No one yelling here, just time for chilling and sharing. Nice place, with a menu that keeps rotating but never gets worse. I also didn't have any slowness issues with service though I can see the place get too full. It would be nice if the place was less dark though, this nightclubbish feel doesn't fit tapas eating.
(4)David J.
I shoot photographs for feature articles on Michiana's best restaurants and recently had the privilege of visiting Chef Sean Kelley's 'Temper Grill'. What a great experience! Simply put, I loved it! The staff was perfectly attentive, the setting was intimate and upscale, fabulous wines and Chef Sean paid personal attention to the perfection of each and every dish placed in front of us. I liked dishes that I didn't necessarily expect to like, and LOVED the one's I eagerly anticipated. Worth noting is the fact that the restaurant serves adults 21 and over ONLY, and the bar seems to be 'wine only'. Try a bottle of the Duckhorn Merlot! I've posted a few of the photos I took that evening, but the food was even better than it looked! I promise! As for value - truly one of the best investments you can make in a Michiana evening. NO QUESTION! I think you should go...
(5)John F.
Dynamite! We loved our steak bites, lobster bites and arugula salad. The Greek cheese soaked in brandy and flamed table-side was delightful. Good selection of wine by the glass and wide selection of wine by the bottle. Looked like quite a beer list , too. We'll try to return tonight.
(5)Kim D.
Love the food & change of menu!! Great date night place! The seating area is small, not meant for families. We usually wait for Groupon deals to come through before visiting. That way we can order more dishes!! Love how everything is to share and come sour when it's ready instead if all at once.
(5)Camden D.
First off, this place is NOT tapas. I was very excited when I heard there was a tapas restaurant that had opened in the area, I grew up eating Spanish Tapas food and miss it terribly! But it is not, it is tapas-STYLE! So once I got over that fact, I was ready to see what this tapas style restaurant had to offer and it turned out to be delicious!! We sat next to a couple that had clearly been there before and went with a few of their suggestions, which turned out to be awesome! We ended up ordering the Mini Steak Chimmis, Mac and Cheese (plain), asparagus, creamed corn, and hummus. All of which sounded good, but I didn't expect to be so blown away by those dishes! They were all really really great!! We also had the intention to keep ordering dishes, but after just those dishes our table of 4 was stuffed! We all had two beers and after splitting the bill by 4 our bill was $20.61..... Come on! Amazing! We did order mostly side dishes rather than the Main dishes which had a much higher price point, but it was plenty of food for us and I can't wait to go back and try many of the other items on the menu, but now I'm hooked on the ones I ordered last time! Overall it was a great experience! But a few notes to know for first timers- you do need reservations, it will look closed as you walk up to the building, there is no hostess stand and you will feel awkward just walking into the middle of the dining room, it is terribly quiet in there (they really need SOME music playing), but just keep going!!! It's worth it and it's delicious!
(5)Rich D.
Delicious meal for our anniversary. Highly recommend the duck bites and Sammies. Service was good. Would have gotten 5 stars but there was a hiccup that one of our plates was lost in the shuffle. Overall, we would go back in a heartbeat. Had a very enjoyable meal FYI, I wouldn't ding the food or server for this but upon asking for iced tea, found out it was canned. Passed on that. Not too much there for a non beer/wine drinker. Not a negative, just be informed
(4)Joshua B.
It's a quaint place with Fantastic food. My wife and I visit once a month. The smoked salmon with mac and cheese is great. The lamb pops are overrated. Small and not that tasty. The other menu items are worth trying.
(4)David G.
Wonderful food and service but pricey -- it made me wish I was billing to a corporate account. A great place to come for a treat.
(5)Beth L.
I get the idea of sharing. We were looking forward to that, but the prices were ridiculous for what you got and food was mediocre at best. There are so many better places to go to in the area that we won't waste our time or money there again.
(1)Kirill G.
The food was rather good, but even after making a representation we had to wait for 20 minutes to get sited.
(3)Shanna M.
I will start off by saying that our waitress was excellent, accommodating and gave great recommendations. With that being said I felt the restaurant was nothing special. The table we were seated at was extremely small especially considering the fact that we had several plates on our table. The food we ordered was only so-so and the selection available on the menu was nothing to talk about. I loved the idea of a Tapas restaurant in South Bend, especially considered the massive amount of chain restaurants we have here but I was expecting to be wowed by the food and left very disappointed.
(2)Ike T.
My wife and I love this place. Dress is casual, and the restaurant is cozy. Items are made to be shared. We usually order 3-4 items on the menu and have tried about everything on the menu and they have not disappointed us. My wife's favorites are the duck and steak bites. I love the lamb pops and lobster bites.
(4)Cassie S.
We always go planning to try something new, but the steak bites and redskin potatoes are just too good to pass up. The spicy feta is also one if our favorites. Excellent service, amazing atmosphere, delicious food, there is often a groupon available. What's not to love!
(5)Jennyfer N.
We came here recently with some family members to sample the dinner menu. I came with predominately meat/potato eaters so we ended up having to eat elsewhere afterwards because they were still hungry. I love the idea of tapas. It makes sense, You should sample a lot of different little things so that the dining experience can be fresh and your palate doesn't get tired of the usual meat and two veg dilemma. It's very similar to dim sum and other Asian style restaurants. However... Most of the food offered was pretty standard fare. And I'll just say it, 12 dollars for 6-8 bites of food is just not at all affordable on most people's budgets unless 1) you can subsist on little or 2) you have a good job that pays for that type of luxury. While I appreciate their aesthetic, it just wasn't...exciting. And I understand this dynamic. As an avid food enthusiast, I've paid ridiculous sums of money for exotic bites of food at sushi joints. I admit, it's a bit ridiculous but you're paying also for an experience, a new way at looking at something. Here...grilled steak? Pan seared pork? Cold sliced steak? It's dressing up what is ordinary fare. For my 12 bucks, I'd rather go to the grocery store, grab a pork tenderloin/ cut of filet mignon and sear it myself. Maybe I could get a potato out of that 12 dollars and call it a meal. But hey, that's the frugal side of me. Bottom line, if you sell it as "tapas" then I want to be excited about it. I just wasn't quite impressed with what we ordered. We got steak bites, pork bites, an order of Mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, a sliced steak chimichurri dish, and then my tomato mozzarella stack. The sea bass with mango wasn't even that exciting of a sell. Now...I will say, the tomato mozzarella stack was delicious. But then again, tomato, mozzarella, and balsamic has been a proven match for years. Not anything new to me. I supposed I expect too much from this and it may just be that this area doesn't have a whole lot of exposure to different dining styles and cuisines. But honestly, I wasn't that impressed. We went to Main Street Pub afterwards and had pulled pork nachos. WAY more exciting. And cheaper too.
(3)Mable A.
Food is great. Regardless of the service I'd never discount the great food. Seems most reviews including my own have one common denominator. The owner/chef should try and lighten up. You own a lovely restaurant with great food! Even great sake martins. That's pretty awesome. Anyone should be able to handle criticism on any level. Great food, I wouldn't allow a few complaints to rile you up. It's almost sad that something as small as an annoyingly rude owner can keep people from some really good dishes. But I guess it's not always fun to encounter a pouting adult.
(3)Lynlee M.
Super good! My husband and I went on a Groupon and we will be back. The food is fresh and was obviously made with quality ingredients. The food came out fresh and nice and hot.
(5)Jill M.
I have to say that when it comes to dining out I have high expectations. I expect high quality food and REMARKABLE customer service. I do not mind paying for either. I received neither this weekend at Temper Grille. I also expect that when I register a complaint that I am treated with respect. I do not always expect to get my way, and I would never try and take advantage of local establishment. As a member of the customer service industry and nationwide trainer, I understand how to manage conflict and resolve situations without causing further damage. This establishment is in need of some serious customer service training. My friend and I happened to participate in a promotion for Granger Food Week. The menu had indicated that certain item we an upgrade and you would be charged extra. No big deal. We ordered one upgrade, enjoyed the meal for the most part (don't get the crab cakes...they were very fishy and mushy). When our bill came, I was shocked to see that we were charged an extra $15 dollars...the menu wasn't very clear - we misread it - completely our fault. I said that I didn't think we should have to pay for the upgrade because we didn't see the extra cost. In retrospect, I probably shouldn't have said anything...but I thought it was worth mentioning. Maybe other people could have been confused as well. Well, here's where it gets interesting. The owner came out with awful look on his face and says (in a horrible tone)..."what's the problem"? He was seething. (Just so you know, I was polite but direct...I wasn't causing some type of scene) He didn't say, how may I help you or I'm sorry for your misunderstanding, but instead..."what's the problem?" Then he proceeds to point to the menu and say...it says right here that this mac n cheese is extra. "Well, I guess I should just change my whole menu since you can't read it". He was insinuating that I was stupid and/or illiterate. I was completely in shock. The thing is...I would have and did pay the extra 15 dollars - OMG when you are dropping $50 on dinner it's not like it's a big deal. I guess I just wanted them to know that the menu wasn't clear. I have never in my life been treated so poorly. But I guess this establishment just doesn't care about customer service. I don't care how ridiculous your customers are...they are customers. They are paying your salary and keeping you in business. You should be kind. Kindness can make an upset customer with a misunderstanding see things differently. I will never set foot in this restaurant again and believe me...the food isn't worth the rude folks and cramped atmosphere. Take your business down to LaSalle Grill - the Tavern is amazing (oh, and they're nice to you there).
(1)Amy H.
I frequent Temper Grille regularly and it never fails to impress. The restaurant is small, but comfortable and the service is always right on. The portion sizes are larger than typical tapas restaurants and reasonably priced. Some of our favorite menu items include the steak bites, mac and cheese, edamame and stuffed chicken. The soups and wraps are great for lunch. Chef Sean is always coming up with new creations - last night we had the sliders and the bite size blueberry cheesecakes for dessert and both were wonderful. If you haven't been, you need to go!
(5)Jake R.
I went in to try Temper after reading so many great reviews. The restaurant was half full but no tables were available until 9....we were told. We were sent to the bar...no problem, but then dressed down by the goth-lipped bartender and for the next three minutes we were told what would be and how it would be. Then I read the top of the menu. I am not quoting exactly here but had I been able to gracefully take the menu with me, I would have so I could give it to you exactly. Don't like how long it takes? Too bad. Don't like our chipped dishes? Tough. Be nice to our servers. Deal with our attitude. You are lucky to be here. We really could care less about you or the effort you made to be here. We got up and left before drinks came and we wouldn't go back under any circumstances. This rudeness isn't schtick. It's bad business.
(1)Sara H.
Tried it for the first time after purchasing a Groupon. I think it was a good place to go for a date night because of the ambience and the style of food; tapas. You are forced (in a good way) to share food and have conversation. There is not another restaurant around here like it. Our server was very good at recommending items for us to try since it was our first visit and we got the perfect amount. They also have an excellent beer and wine selection. My complaint is that Temper Grille, or maybe the owner, seem a bit pretentious. I think part of that is location. But the main reason I say that is because there is a disclaimer on the menu written by the owner and it basically says "This is my restaurant. I will serve you food when I want the way I want and you better not complain or do anything I don't like or you will be asked to leave. You need me, I don't need you". Maybe its not meant in the context I took it, but it was off-putting enough that it makes me not want to go back, even though there are other items I would like to try.
(3)Lisa R.
Thrilled to say that the hubs and I continue to have amazing experiences here! Never fails to impress! Service is always spot on, not too rushed nor too slow. Excellent section of wines in all price ranges and haven't had a bad choice from the menu yet! We love that it's an "over 21 to enter" restaurant so we can have a great time reconnecting and dining with other adults always! Chef Sean really has a great thing going, hope he doesn't change a thing!
(5)Sherri D.
The food was amazing. Everything was great. The only suggestion we would make is that we were a party of four and a few of the dishes came out with three of something. We would appreciate the servings to match the party and would be willing to pay for four portions of an item. Also I would only bring close friends or a date as it was a little awkward sharing with a business client. Great service, and nice environment. Would definitely recommend.
(5)Allen M.
Damn, I wish they would open an outpost in Oak Park, Illinois. We were on a car trip and I found this place on the web. Really glad I did. The small plates were perfect for us. At home we each order an entre and take half of it home. We are OLD and have small appetites. When you go, do not miss the restrooms!
(5)Jeremy V.
We've been to Temper Grille on many occasions, and have yet to be disappointed. After all these visits we've tried pretty much everything on the menu, plus whatever specials chef has going on at the time. The flaming cheese has to be one of my favorite things. I could eat five plates of that myself. But everything else from the lamb pops, chicken marsala, steak, tuna, pork, has all been just fantastic. Cooked properly, great flavor, and no real downside other than wishing you had twice as much on the plate. The waitstaff has been fantastic, fun, and friendly. They will joke with us at the table, etc. Last time we were there we had five people, and one of the the plates only came with four portions, but she went ahead made sure there were five portions so that we could all get a full piece. The only downside, if you can even call it that, is that it is tad pricey. So if you're a big eater looking to fill up on a 20 dollar meal, this place may not be for you. But it's perfect for a night out with a group of friends where you want to spend an evening and enjoy some good wine, good food, and try new things. Can't wait to go back yet again.
(5)Renee S.
Time and time again, Temper Grille never disappoints us. Whether we dine in or meet them at the local chili cook off (who my son kept going back for more) they are great. Sean has this down and his staff is top notch. Love the chilean sea bass, lamb lollipops, mussels, mmmmm my mouth is watering now! You will spend a bit here, but its a meal that you will want more of. MMMMM.
(5)Shirley B.
Ok, I've given this restaurant several chances. The food is good but it appears to be slipping. Feels like some corner cutting is taking place. You have to order a lot to come away satisfied and then it gets pretty pricey. Plus, fine dining is more than just food. The atmosphere is bad, starting with the tables right in front of the doors, to the booths with seats that feel like you're sitting on wooden planks, to the bar and bathroom which both look like they are fresh out of a brothel. Cross your fingers that you'll get a high top seat, as it's away from the door and much more comfortable than the other options. And, at a high top your feet are off the cement floor which will chill you to the bone in the winter. While I enjoy the salad, duck bites, and Mac and cheese, I think I'm done with this place. There are better options which are also close to Granger like Yesterday's, Ruth's Chris, and my new favorite Rocky River(or some name like that). Ok, I wasn't going to go there, but I see others have and I feel it needs to be said: the chef/owner needs to pull himself together and take a few courses on customer service. He is NOT doing us a huge favor by slinging food and when there is a problem with the food(and it doesn't happen often) he comes unglued. I'm not sure if he's watched a few too many episodes of Hell's Kitchen or if that's just how he is, but when he comes out of the kitchen, the whole mood in the dining room changes for the worst. He needs a manager who has the authority to deal with customer issues and he should just stay in the kitchen.
(2)Jose L.
Great place for tapas.
(5)Sherry G.
Would never go back again. If you like very small portions, rude waitstaff and a totally pretentious place to eat, then this is the place for you. This is South Bend after all. Food was good, what there was of it. Very unconcerned owner/chef. Rude, insulting person. Felt very uncomfortable there eating alone on a weekend. Was ignored totally by my waitress and reported this to the owner. Waited four days to hear back from the owner. Never called. When he did call, accused me of trying to get something for free from him. I didn't want anything from him, because I had no intention of ever going back there. And to think I came out in a heavy snowstorm to eat there. I've lived in various major metropolitan areas around the country and this was the first time this has ever happened. Save your money and go to a restaurant that not only has good food, but gives reasonable portions and where they certainly appreciate your business!
(1)Huyen L.
Delicious food- Get the NY Strip with the roasted red pepper sauce and the Ahi Tuna! If you can swing it, the lobster mac and cheese is melt in your mouth tasty! Make sure you go during Restaurant Week, too. The deal is unbeatable!
(5)Kristin M.
I've been a semi-weekly regular at Temper for at least six months. On the positive side, the waitstaff has always been very friendly and accommodating. There was a group there tonight smoking cigars on the patio dining area. When someone at my table mentioned it to our server, she said that they were aware of the problem and would take care of it. The smokers moved approximately 2 feet away from the dining area, and no further action was taken - disappointing. We were interested in the cheese plate, but the menu described it as coming with "cured meats", which didn't interest my party. We asked if they would substitute all cheeses, and our server asked the chef, but returned to tell us that it couldn't be changed, but that the plate only included a "garnish" of meat. When it arrived, it was three different meats and three cheeses - clearly half meat and not a garnish. Our server smiled uncomfortably when we were disappointed. I understand if a substitution isn't allowed, but I wish we'd had the opportunity to order something different. Like Kristen M, I'm hoping tonight was a fluke, but it was a major disappointment. I tried to talk to the manager in a constructive way as we left, since the menu has changed fairly recently, but he told me I was wrong (the smokers moved 3 feet away and not two, there wasn't as much meat as I thought on that plate, etc.). I didn't want to argue with him, and he didn't want my feedback. I hope that the cigar crowd is a group of regulars who will bring lots of business to Temper, because I'm no longer recommending it to the South Bend visitors that I encounter at work. From now on, I'll send them to Corndance, Cafe Navarre, Wheatberry, Fiddler's Hearth, and other non-chain restaurants that consistently deliver.
(2)Elaine L.
Love the intimate setting, the wine and the steak bites!
(5)Kristen J.
Just when I thought worse couldn't get worse it sure did. From the overly loud, bad music coupled with weird, raw pork chunks - I'm outta here!!!! In and out in less then half hour. Chef caught my mental vomit when I saw the raw pork and sent it back. Sure to be spit in LOL so I'm not touching it! He looked on with disgust - what happened to customer service?? Houlihan's South Bend looking' good right about now ! Oxymoron yes, I know......desperate times = desperate measures! 2 stars because (1) ambience for South Bend is a plus & (2) I'm still hanging onto a past better experience. Here's hoping my last visit was a fluke.
(2)Deb M.
Temper grill is my go to place for dinner. Fro. The steak bites to the chicken marsala, you can't go wrong for dinner. The dining room is smaller and you need to make a reservation- but the small plates idea is a great idea for friends to share and have a variety of dishes. One suggestion though- go for the chocolate truffles not the balsamic strawberries with grilled cake.
(5)Em J.
Creative Cuisine and a Glowing 5-Star Review: We have been meaning to try the Temper Grille for the last year and a half. Well, finally we tried it on a whim. In short, it was a wonderful experience with marvelous food and an extensive and impressive wine list. If you've been convinced, stop reading here and go check it out for yourself. If you want more details, read on: It was a Friday evening and they were completely booked out; however, they did have room for us at the bar. Normally, this would be a turn-off, but we actually enjoyed sitting there and getting personal attention and the 'inside scoop' from both Brandi, the bartender, and Chef Sean as he came out of the kitchen to check on things. First the restaurant: It is an intimate place, which is boldly, yet tastefully, decorated. The acoustics are excellent and make for easy conversation with your dining partners. There is seating for about 42 people at tables, another 6+ at the bar, and best of all, room for about another 24+ people out on the terrace. (Unfortunately, this chilly Northern Indiana spring day precluded us from sitting outside.) Next, on to the wine: They have a superb wine list and a bartender who really knows her selections and pairings. Here you will find wines that you may not find at other restaurants. The prices are good and many wines are available by the glass and by the bottle. Bottles seem to be a good deal and one day a week, I think it's Wednesday, they run a special on wines. Now, on to the food: Temper Grille is a tapas-style restaurant. Basically, similar to most tapas places... order several menu items and share them with your dining partners. The only difference is, the portions are a bit larger than standard tapas, so if you aren't the sharing type, you can still have a wonderful meal. I would suggest try 3-5+ items per 3 people... and leave some room for desert. If you have questions, the staff's suggestions are helpful in making selections. Everything we tried was delicious, expertly prepared, wonderfully plated and presented, and best of all, so very satisfying. This is a fun place to have a meal at an unhurried pace while enjoying the company of your dining partners. This place would be great for a romantic dinner, dinner with friends, or even a business dinner. Finally, a note on the staff: From the moment we entered, we were warmly greeted and made to feel welcome. Everyone that works there seems to enjoy what they are doing, know the food, and can carry on a conversation. Chef Sean is a talented and creative culinary artist. His offerings will both astound and amaze you. This restaurant is of Chicago caliber. Once you are dining here, you will forget that you are eating in Granger, Indiana. All my accolades and those of other reviewers are more than well-deserved. We can't wait to go back and try the restaurant again... Try it for yourself, you'll love it! Helpful hint: Make reservations.
(5)Aditi G.
This place was a Groupon success! Went here with a couple friends and we got the spinach dip, stuffed chicken, and the portobello stack and they were all delicious. This place has great service, a small but intimate atmosphere and a vast array of different menu items to please anyone's palate! Also, there was a cute little old man playing piano all night! (He is there on Friday/Saturday)
(5)Keith A.
Tom S. Doesn't have a clue. 5 stars all the way. One of the best places in town with super friendly staff.
(5)Lane M.
Our meal had considerable potential, but ultimately, it was quite unsatisfying. In general, the favors in the dishes were overdone and unbalanced. The portabella stack was served too hot. The moisture in the mushrooms retained the heat of the grill. That negated most of the flavor in the dish. We let it cool only to find its flavor fairly bland. The menu promised goat cheese in their stuffing and goat cheese it was. However, its goat flavor was so mild that it was difficult to distinguish the cheese from any other generic white melting cheese. The vegetables under the cheese simply did not fit the flavor profile of the dish or provide a pleasant texture. I specifically asked that our steak bits by grilled medium. They came nearly well done. I had heard this was a problem at the restaurant. The steak was tough and some pieces even dry (even a well done steak should never be dry). It was also over seasoned. There was a spice mix on it which would have been pleasant by itself, but the pieces were also drizzled with a sauce. That just created too much flavor. Again, no balance! The sauce did help mask the dryness of the meat which was a benefit. Everything they serve seems to be garnished with a mesclun mix. Not a bad thing, but gets boring. The leaves also wilt easily for hot dishes. We did enjoy the spinach dip with pita. I hope the pita was not microwaved, but I could not ultimately tell. They were slightly tough, but not terribly. We also had the baked brie. This was also fairly good. The compote was strange, however. The berries were pithy. Neither my homemade frozen berries nor canned jams have such a texture so I am not sure what was wrong with theirs. What was very strange, however, was serving the brie with pita! I cannot fathom what we were supposed to do with even more pita (which accompanied every dish save the mushrooms) especially with a traditional french dish. The seating was not comfortable. We were at one of your two person tables against the wall across from the bar. It is really a small space. It was difficult to manage all the plates on such a small table, especially since you did not gauge the timing of our dishes well. At one point we had three different dishes on our small table. Not necessary for a tapas place. Our table wobbled when we first arrived. I shimmed it up with a few gum wrappers. A stable table is a must. The dining room tables should be checked regularly. We also sat across from a couple who were obviously friends of either the chef or another cook. He came and visited them a number of times during the evening. He seemed in a rather bad mood as their conversation was usually fairly hushed. It was distracting to have him back and forth. It was also odd that he never asked up how our meal was. He was cooking it after all. It was probably for the best, however. It would have taken too long to discuss my feelings at the point. This restaurant has potential. It is advertised as an American style tapas bar. That is exactly what it is! Americans tend to overdo things (note big pickup trucks). The food tasted very midwest in its seasonings and style. There needs to be more refinement to fit both the dish that the menu envisioned and the price they ask. I hope these comments can be taken positively to improve the dining experience.
(2)Tom K.
I am a big fan of deals and trying new places. Last year, I took advantage of an online deal for this place and really glad I did. I made a reservation and when my friend and I went in I had wondered why I had bothered since only one other couple were there. In less than 15 minutes the place was packed. The portions of the food were enough for two people so be warned. We ordered the steak with red potatoes and onions and mac and cheese if I remember correctly - it was amazing! My only issue was that the server was kinda weird when I mentioned the online deal and gee I thought the intent of this was to get new people to try the place - you woudl think - hey be nice but oh well. My only complaints would be that the choice of alcohol selection was so so and the desserts could have more selections. I would strongly recommend this place but do call ahead since it is a small room and they are NOT open on Sunday and Monday.
(5)Stacy O.
Dined here tonight, inspired by the LivingSocial coupon. Though we would have found our way here eventually, I'm grateful to Living Social for expediting the adventure. The food is served tapas style, which means you should plan to share with others in your party. Strategically decide with your group what you're going to order because you won't want to miss anything! We started with baked brie with berry compote. From there, we tried the tequila lime chicken, steak bites, New York strip, macaroni and cheese, and Ahi tuna. We also ordered a side of vegetables (grilled green beans and onions on the night we were there). By the time we cleaned off the last plate, we were happily stuffed and sad we hadn't saved room for the amazing desserts we saw servers carrying out of the kitchen. A highlight of Temper Grille is their extensive wine selection. Check out the two page wine menu and order by the glass to create your own pairing menu, or split a bottle with your party for a reasonable cost. At this time, they don't serve beer or liquor, but the wine menu provides more than enough options. I strongly recommend making reservations. The seating area is small and we saw several people leave because there were no tables available. Don't miss this gem in Granger -- it's worth traveling off the beaten and tired paths of Grape Road and Main Street.
(4)Scott M.
A variety of generous and delicious dishes suited to a discerning palate. The Mac & Cheese-the best I've ever had. This was my first dining experience there, but certainly not my last.
(5)Catherine H.
It's always good to see a new local restaurant in the area, but to me, this one falls a little short. Although we enjoyed everything we ordered (the lamb was a standout), we left disappointed. Our server was not very helpful or knowledgeable about the menu. With a tapas/small plate concept, two people need to order 4-5+ dishes to have a complete meal. With two of glasses of wine, our bill was close to $100 (before tip). We were still hungry, and had to hit a drive-thru on the way home. For us to go back, there would need to be either more substantial portions, or some lower-priced options to fill out the menu. Seems like it would be a better place to go for a glass of wine and a late-night snack than to plan on it being your only dinner.
(3)Shayne S.
Great food...great atmosphere...great staff! What else could you ask for!
(5)Jason R.
Fantastic tapas spot! The menu is a bit on the short side, but everything we have ordered is excellent. After living in Chicago, I missed a good tapas restaurant. This definitely fits the need! Staff is friendly, accommodating, and easy going. The chocolate truffles are remarkable. Cozy, trendy atmosphere, that is very welcoming and casual.
(5)Michele K.
While on vacation in Three Rivers we ventured to Temper where we enjoyed some of the best food we'd ever eaten. The waitstaff is so pleasent & knowledgeable about their many wines they have to offer. And the white sangria? Let's just say..... we tried to shake down Sean, the owner, for his recipe. The food came to our table in perfect staggered stages allowing us to share and enjoy so many delicious and unique flavors. I need to come back to try everything on that menu. I recommend you make the drive to try Temper Grille! And seriously. Save room for truffles.
(5)Chelsea W.
The Temper Grille is a MUST when you're in the Notre Dame/South Bend area. Both my boyfriend and colleague agree that we have to stop when we're in town. I haven't had a bad thing on their menu, I love the atmosphere and the dining experience is fun overall.
(5)Cara L.
I am happy to be able to give Temper Grille 5 stars now as all of their service issues have been ironed out and their dining experience is second to none! Chef Sean does a fabulous job of coming up with new, exciting menu items like his recent additions of lobster mac and cheese, lamb pops and strawberry shortcake with strawberries marinated in balsamic vinegarette. So, if you haven't yet tried this wonderful place - get there soon but be sure to call and make a reservations, tables fill up fast! I was there on a random Tuesday night and while it was 1/2 price bottles of wine night, every table was full. Great to see in this economy! The days will be getting warm soon so take advantage of their tables on the patio. Cheers to Chef Sean and congrats on your 1 years anniversary this month!
(5)Ethan H.
Get the steak bites! Oh... my... GOODNESS! I love this place!
(5)Tracy B.
Had dinner and drinks tonight with the girls. 2 of us had been here before and the others had not. We all had a wonderful experience. Our waitress was very helpful in helping us make great choices. We started with Steak bites and Edamame. Then all shared the Scallops (Yum!), Ahi Tuna and finished with the Fabulous Chocolate Truffles and a few bottles of Katherine Goldschmidt Cabernet! We also got to have a great visit with Chef Sean and sign a few corks for the wall. It was a great overall experience. Temper Grille is definitely our new Favorite! Can't wait to come back for more!
(5)Carly D.
This is a really quaint restaurant with cute decor for such a small place. I recommend making reservations. The waiter referred to the dining as "tapas-style" but I would just say it's a la mode b/c the portions aren't small like a real tapas restaurant serves. That being said, maybe it's just to encourage a sharing experience. We had a party of 6 and the booth they put us in was heavenly with comfy cushions and lots of space. The service was excellent - waiter was very professional. There was also a man playing a keyboard piano in the background - not too loud - which was very nice. We tried a little of everything on my menu - soups app (excellent), edemame (awesome w/ their lime salt!), seared tuna (so yum)...I could go on but it was all good.
(4)Kathy S.
If you're looking for a great place to unwind with delicious food and great wine, Temper Grille is the place to be! The food is excellent, served in small plates that are perfect for sharing -- and the wine selection is great -- the knowledgeable staff adds to the overall experience. For me, nothing is better on a warm afternoon than to sit on the patio with a cheese plate and a glass of pinot grigio -- followed by some of Chef Sean's AWESOME chocolate truffles
(5)Megan F.
lovely ambiance, food was great, steak bites were incredible!
(4)Manda H.
great food variety, accommodating staff, friendly and knowledgeable server. great place to dine with friends, though the restaurant is tiny. they really can't accommodate more than 4 at a time without some difficulty. will definitely be back!
(4)Christo L.
Great food, great service! Just the right place for those who like to have and try a variety of different well-made dishes.
(5)Jp S.
This is a general review over every time I've been to Temper. It's never been disappointing. I think i've tried just about everything on the menu, and while I have my favorites (Steak Bites YES PLEASE) their is not a single item I wouldn't order again. Occasionally Sean will have a sushi night, and it's by far the best in town. His wine selection is 2nd to none. I go to many wine dinner's in town, and Temper's wine nights are the event of the month. No one puts on a better event than them. As I write this review I have started to think about the service. Going to one place many times you are bound to run into a lackluster night service wise, except at Temper. You are always treated like you own the place. I think it's a requirement that every server try everything on the menu, because never once have I heard, I haven't tried that but others say it's great. The staff is just as if not more top notch then the food.
(5)Stephanie S.
Oh Temper Grille...FINALLY a great place to dine in the Granger area. I have dined here a handful of times and have yet to be disappointed. Some of my favorites I have tried are the mussels, steak bites, carpaccio, lamb lollipops and the list goes on. They always have great specials and a nice wine selection. The staff is friendly and attentive. Chef Sean knows what he is doing because this place is always packed. I would suggest calling ahead especially if there are more than 2 in your party.
(5)Autumn G.
Good food. I've been there four times and have never been really blown away. I really love their chocolate truffles. They also do Groupons pretty often so keep an eye out for those.
(4)Sara H.
Well, I'm not sure that the person who gave this restaurant 3 stars actually knows what they are talking about. This place is DELICIOUS! steak bites... YUM LObster bites...yum, lobster Mac n cheese YUM! Sangria... Omg!!!! Stuffed chicken... WOW!! it is a little pricey, but for the taste of the food and the atmosphere designed for couples or a nice dinner, it's worth it. Don't forget to finish your dinner off with the Truffles... So good!!!
(5)Kailey L.
Holy cow this is probably my new favorite restaurant. The prices are a little up there ($85 for two) however the food is phenomenal. The sea bass is out of this world. I was a little disappointed in the salmon because it was served cold and I'm not huge on cold fish but it was still pretty tasty! We got macaroni and cheese and asparagus for our sides and both were delicious. At that time we definitely could have eaten more but with two beers on top of that we decided to just get dessert and not over stuff ourselves. We ordered the strawberry shortcake and the chef also sent us out the chocolate truffles. I don't think my taste buds have ever exploded more! I'm craving the truffles from just writing about them haha! They had a decent beer selection and a long wine list but of course they were out of the wine I wanted (I feel like this always happens to me) so we stuck with beer. The service was a little slow even with the restaurant only being about half full on a Saturday but overall I was almost as pleased as my taste buds. We will definitely be returning soon!
(4)Heather B.
My favorite restaurant in this area, by far. The new look and feel is awesome! I took my mom here last night and we chose the baked brie, crab cakes, and pork bites. Everything was delicious! Service was great. I always look forward to getting the waiter they have, but we had Brandy last night and she was great too. I have never been disappointed by Temper Grille! Keep up the great work...your restaurant rocks!
(5)M. G.
Wow, fabulous food. Ate here once and tried many dishes. All choices were tasty and unique. I recommend this place. The booths (newly remodeled) are too deep for the height of the tables so your chin is practically rests on the table. Ask for a table with chairs. Don't go with too large of a group. They can't accommodate you comfortably. We had 6 and were cramped. The glare form the setting sun can make it so you squint and can't see those across the booth from you. Perhaps they will get some window coverings or tinting to fix this problem.
(5)Linsey W.
This is my favorite place in Michiana! The shareable plates allow you to try multiple dishes. I've never had a bad experience here and love how frequently new items are offered as the seasons allow. Also, they frequently offer a Groupon to allow you to get your feet wet at a discounted price. I cannot recommend highly enough! The duck bites and strawberry shortcake are always a must!
(5)Janet Y.
My boyfriend and I LOVE this place! We have gone to the other downtown South Bend restaurants and Temper Grill is by far the best. It is a tapas - STYLE restaurant. It is not tapas. You do need reservations but bar seating is typically available. I can never decide on what to eat, so this place is perfect. I haven't tried anything I haven't liked. Their mac and cheese and steak bites are always great choices. The last few times our bill after taxes + tip with drinks, 5 plates and dessert was $120. This is now our go - to restaurant.
(5)A K.
first of all, tapas is anything BUT slow and this place is dreadfully slow. For south bend area this place has decent food but quality/speed to price ratio is way off. I will probably not go back here again. But i suppose if you are looking for something different then it's worth to check it out for your self. Be warned you're in for hour and a half to two hours for a normal meal, so have some time on your hands.
(2)Tom S.
Apparently I missed the memo that you need reservations. My spouse and I stopped in as we heard good things about this place from co-workers. Was a bit surprised by the night club feel and how small the place was. No one bothered to acknowledge us after we walked in so we started for a booth thinking maybe it was a seat yourself situation. That sure got the attention of the staff. The waitress ran over and actually blocked our path before we reached the booth asking if we had reservations. The place was half empty. We were a bit surprised and said no. She offered some seating at the bar but she was rude and had the attitude she didn't really want us to stay. No problem. We left and had a good laugh. Pretentious restaurant in a strip mall. Fabulous.
(1)Brian E.
The best restaurant I have been to in the area. Much better than corndance. They were out of bacon wrapped dates which was disappointing but the we were there at 8:15 and the idea is to make fresh, delicious food so that type of thing happens. Let's put it this way, if a restaurant doesn't run out of something, they either throw it away or use it the next day (and I am anti both). The steak sammys were incredible. Normally I am super anti sauce on steak but the sauces, that one included, were fantastic. The duck bites were great as well.
(5)Mary K.
TG is a tapas-style restaurant, definitely not a tapas restaurant. They serve only beer and wine, though good selections of both, actually way more than the limited food menu. The waitstaff seem to be the bar staff also, which slowed things down a bit. Delivery of food was problematic, at least at first. We were starving, so ordered some olive and nuts along with feta cheese to eat before other dinner items arrived. We never got the feta, and the olives and nuts came after the salad, which we didn't get until 40 minutes after we arrived (& the restaurant was not even 1/2 full at that point). All the other dishes arrived in quick succession, so we had three dishes that didn't really go together. Our waitress was very attentive to our food sensitivities, but forgot one item as a result of checking back and forth between the chef and us. Seems they could use one more waiter, as the hostess was hustling the whole night helping with drinks, bussing, and food delivery. Best item was duck leg - very generous portion, but only a tiny bit of the beet & fennel "salad" advertised with it. Duck fat potatoes were also very tasty, but a bit too much fat for the amount of potatoes. Black mussels with creamy tomato sauce were also quite good, but couldn't be altered for garlic sensitivity (came with garlic toast, and waitress didn't bring a non-garlic piece, which seemed easy enough to do). Chopped salad was tasty also, but a bit on the sweet side with candied almonds, mandarin oranges, strawberries, and dried cherries. Would have like more veggie options, which was expected since it's summer. Strawberry balsamic shortbread was yummy, but would have been better with fresh whipped cream and less of it. One of the biggest drawbacks to this restaurant is its ambiance, which is sorely lacking. The decor is dark and drab. We saw only one flower bouquet near the bar, and no candles on the table, which would have helped in the dark interior. The patio looks nice, but it looks out into a stripmall parking lot. We'll be back, but not as quickly as we thought we would after hearing about it.
(3)Ruth G.
Everything at Temper Grille is phenomenal and if u have not tried the steak bits you have tooooo. My co-worker and best friend Elvern Cooks took me to Temper Grille for the first time and I am hooked. My husband and I enjoy the atmosphere and the food very much. My husband loves the duck bites too. Also the cream corn is out of this world and I have never been a cream corn person, but once you try this corn you too will be hooked.
(5)Michael W.
Temper has a small dining room, and some of the seats have no back rests. The tables are small, which could present a problem if more than one tapas arrives simultaneously. I liked the lamb pops, lobster bites, and the hummus. I didn't care much for the expensive crab cakes. Prices seem high for the quality of the food. The service was very good.
(3)Worthy T.
This is my second time going. They had me at the lamb pops when I was getting my groupoun. The lamb pops were amazing!! I love the mini steak chimmi's. The chimmichurri sauce complimented very well with the steak and avocado. The steak bites were my weakness, I didn't want to share. We asked for the bites to be well done and to my surprise the steak wasn't dry but tender and juicy. It was the best steak I've ever had in a long time! I wish I had it with the macaroni and cheese. The customer service was great! It's a great place to go for some good tapas !!!
(5)Josh W.
The food was good but not worth the price. Especially when it's something you could make at home just as good. Our server was slow and didn't come to our table to see us very many times witch I personally didn't like. The place is very small and clumsy at times. I'm no chef but I have no doubt I could chop up some beef or pork, grill it real quick, throw some fancy sauce on it, put in a fancy bowl and sell it to you for 20 dollars. I've been here twice now and my first experience was the same. I wanted to give it another try to see if it was better and it was not.
(2)Jimmy W.
I've traveled the world, eaten in some of the best restaurants in France, Spain, Germany, Italy, etc., and I still call this one of the best places I've ever gone to. I cannot recommend this place enough. It's not cheap but it's well worth the cost.
(5)Bonnie B.
Service was poor. Ignored by the bartenders & waitresses for nearly 10 minutes as they scurried past me. Not even an acknowledgment though I was sitting in the middle of others they were serving at the bar. New presentation - ruined the shrimp bites. Was encouraged to share my input with the owner/chef who shrugged me off rudely and said that he liked them. Well, he can buy his own crappy food and service as far as I'm concerned. Will never waste my money here again.
(1)Amber P.
We love coming to Temper Grille for business dinners and date night. It has been hit or miss with service. We have a great time most of the time but we have had the same server twice, unfortunately on our anniversary and Valentine's Day, and we were ignored and never brought more wine. We love the food, especially the steak bites, brie en croute and mac and cheese. It is neat that the menu always changes, too!
(4)Rob O.
By far, the best restaurant in the area. From the smoked pork belly tacos to the roasted red pepper & garbanzo bean soup -- the menu is so eclectic. I'm not one for writing reviews, but Temper deserves it. Must try if you are in the area. Everything on the menu is fantastic.
(5)