Sanford Restaurant
1547 N Jackson St, Milwaukee, WI, 53202
Sanford Restaurant Menu
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Visit below restaurant in Milwaukee for healthy meals suggestion.
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Visit below restaurant in Milwaukee for healthy meals suggestion.
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Address :
1547 N Jackson St
Milwaukee, WI, 53202 - Phone (414) 276-9608
- Website https://www.sanfordrestaurant.com/
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :5:30 pm - 9:00pm
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : Yes
Delivery : No
Take-out : No
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Dinner
Parking : Valet, Street
Bike Parking : No
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : No
Good for Groups : No
Attire : Dressy
Ambience : Classy
Noise Level : Quiet
Alcohol : Full Bar
Outdoor Seating : No
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : No
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Rick R.
I was torn between 4 and 5 stars for Sanford. I've dined at Sanford a few times now, once under Chef D'Amato and the more recent visits have been under Chef Aprahamian. While it has been several years since dining while Chef D'Amato owned the restaurant, I don't recall specific differences with the quality of the food, considering Chef Aprahamian worked under Chef D'Amato during that time. Wednesday night, a few Yelpers gathered to celebrate the birthday of Mike M. and we all decided to order the Chef's Surprise Tasting, a 7-course dinner for $85. The wine pairing was an additional $45, which none of us selected. Instead we ordered our own drinks. I recommend getting the chef's surprise tasting for the dining experience. You should do it once, at least. The restrictions are that everyone at your table must do the tasting, so one person can't order off the menu while others get the tasting. It's all or nothing. You all don't, however, have to get the wine pairings. Also, the surprise tasting is only available Monday through Friday. We had a 6:15 reservation and our stay was extended far beyond what we expected. We didn't get the details but there were definitely struggles in the kitchen that night. The restaurant was full. I think I only saw one empty 2-top to our right. There were two other groups of 8 guests, aside from our group of 6. One of the other groups also ordered the tasting. That, in itself, would slow the kitchen down, but after an hour and a half, we were only through 3 courses, and we waited at least 45 minutes between the 3rd and 4th course. The staff was conscious of this and apologized after it seemed they tried to avoid us for a bit, while buying our table a round of wine. I would have been happy with more bread or breadsticks. Were it not for the great company I was with, this would have been a major issue with me to which I would have spoken up about. The kitchen was able to get things worked out and it was smooth sailing for the remaining four courses. After the cauliflower and turnip puree amuse bouche, we started with a Seared Scallop in a Sorrel Gazpacho, followed by a Morel mushroom and Ricotta cheese raviolis. The scallop was cooked perfectly and the gazpacho was refreshing, but the ravioli was rich and delicious, thanks in large part to the brown butter sauce. For a few of us, the ravioli was the favorite dish of the night, even though there were so many great dishes. A small swordfish filet over fingerling potatoes arrived as our third course. The swordfish was cooked perfectly with a light sear and slightly moist texture. After our very long wait, we were rewarded with plates of tender seared duck breast over tiny tubes of house made pasta. It was a solid dish. The pasta had a slightly coarse texture to it, but I appreciated its uniqueness. Next up was the Beef Tenderloin over a maple marscapone polenta. If the beef were elk another unique protein, this might have been my favorite dish. The primary issue I had with this dish was fruit compote, I believe it was cherries. The compote made the dish too sweet for me and overpowered the flavor of the beef. Otherwise, the beef was perfectly tender and cooked to mid rare, maybe a bit toward medium, but the maple marscapone polenta itself was my favorite ingredient of the night! It was smooth, creamy and a little sweet. I could taste the maple and the marscapone. It was really well balanced. The last two dishes were a pre-dessert and dessert course. The pre-dessert was a transition course to cleanse our palettes. Buttermilk sorbet sat in a chilled rhubard soup with rhubarb compote. It was tasty and refreshing. The yogurt cake with granola ice cream, lemon custard and granola was a strong finish to dinner. I would have preferred a savory course for #6 for $85 or something a bit more "substantial," considering the swordfish was really the only uncommon main ingredient. Then maybe "throw in" a smaller taste of sorbet and rhubard as the transition. I'm setting aside the kitchen issues to a fluke, and I appreciate the complimentary glass of wine to recognize that they know it was an issue. As much as I enjoyed each dish, I had higher expectations for this surprise tasting menu compared to other tasting menus I've experienced in Milwaukee. Every dish was well-executed and every bite I had was good, except for the beef tenderloin dish, which I thought was too sweet. I would give 4 1/2 stars if Yelp allowed, since I've never had a mind blowing experience of flavors preventing an easy 5 star review. However, the food and service have always been well above average at Sanford on my visits, and since there is no question, Sanford provides a better dining experience than most all, if not all, of the restaurants I've given 4 stars to, I've rounded up to 5 stars.
(5)Dylani H.
Can't believe I forgot to write a review for this place all this time. Have been here in several occasions for birthdays and anniversary celebrations. It has a cozy feel, not stuffy yet elegant. I recommend going with the wine pairing option . it eliminates having to read and choose and things what's good over the other. everything is well prepared , presented and tastes wonderful
(4)Bethany W.
Sanford brings upscale dining to Milwaukee. It's all about polished refined food here. Instead of the chefs course I went with the a la carte menu. I started with the cheese plate and the scallops appetizer. The cheese plate was pretty standard but they were great in bringing me pear crisps instead of their nut crackers since I'm allergic. The scallops were cut in slices enrobed in a miso glaze. They were toppled with candied kumquats and what I thought were sticks but were baby cat tails. You know...the stuff that grows in marshes! For my entree I ordered the Elk. They did a beautiful job cooking it medium rare. It had a richness to it without being heavy.
(4)C. B.
Oh. M. G. This place delivers! Everything was beautiful, delicious, creative and extremely well executed! We drove up from Chicago and I'd say this place can easily compete with the two michelin star restaurants in Chicago. The wine pairing was great. Everything was great! We'll be back and bring friends with! The Sanford deserves all the accolades it has and more!
(5)Laura R.
Foodie meal. superb. Best ever. Not as expensive as we'd been led to believe. Service. adequate. WIFI/cell phone connection, sketchy. So we were stranded on the street trying to reach UBER or Lyft because they couldn't provide a WIFI connection in the restaurant. Had to go back in to have a cab called. Sorry we waited so long to eat here.
(5)Brad K.
Reading reviews, reading articles, living down the street from this place for a year, I've been tantilizing about coming here for years. I've even spent $75 here (gift certificate wedding gift) and still have never attended. I've been jokingly asking my parents to take me here for my birthday since I have had mature tastebuds. I always knew it'd be a special occassion the day I'd dine here - deservingly so. With some of the highest ratings I've ever seen for a restaurant in Milwaukee, and several articles listing this as not one of the best restaurants in Milwaukee - BUT IN THE COUNTRY - when I was informed I'd dine here for my 27th birthday - I guess you could said I was excited and filled with supreme skyscraper high expectations.... maybe I need to temper them from now on... Rolling up and waiting for the valet, the kind owner or perhaps manager ushered us inside to ensure we didn't wait in the cold. My first thought upon entering is how small this place really is. It looks like a house from the outside and on the inside there's just one main small room that contains all the tables - almost as if they set up a restaurant in someone's large living room. I instantly was concerned that we would hear other people's conversations and vis versa the whole night. But somehow that was not the case - at all. The ambiance in fact, created a very intimate and fine dining vibe. Something that's important to me at a place like this. The service was strange and below average. That's the best way to describe it. Service that you wouldn't expect from a place of this caliber. For instance, we received an "old" menu which we didn't realize at first and confused us when we were talking about what to order. The menu was switched out which then made it more confusing as the old menu had desserts listed on the page that wasn't the 7 course meal. Next, my mom said she likes a Merlot type wine and asked if there is anything similar or that our server would suggest (as Merlot wasn't on the menu) but he literally laughed then shook his head. As if it was funny to not be able to suggest a wine? For appetizers we ordered the confit pig shoulder / duck gizzard to share, my mom ordered soup and a salad, my dad ordered soup, and I ordered soup. My soup and my moms soup came out and the pig shoulder was placed by my dad. My soup was bad to say the least. The broccoli soup - tasted like split pea soup with a strange mint aftertaste. I could not finish. The manager/owner guy felt really bad however and offered for me to choose something else which I respectfully declined. After that we waited for what seemed like awhile. The plates although finished, were not removed from the table for quite some time. Finally my moms salad and dad's soup came out as I sat and watched them eat. I tried some of the salad and it was amazing. I ordered the Elk Medium Rare, my mom ordered the beef tenderloin medium (after we convinced her how silly Medium Well was - her original order) and my dad had the beef tenderloin medium rare. They gave my mom the medium rare and my dad the medium which we didn't realize untl after a few bites. Common mistake - but still. I ended up switching with my dad who didn't like the aftertaste of the tenderloin saying it was saltly. I loved that and the Elk. We switched back at the end. The medium rare tenderloin was cooked perfect and delicious. Not the best steak I've ever had, maybe not even top 5 - but still good. I expected amazing though. Wondering if I'm weird and where these amazing reviews come from I awaited dessert. Out of nowhere (before dessert arrived) a plate was placed next to me. In chocolate goo cursive - "Happy Birthday Brad". Little goo dots next to that - tart raspberry / fruit puree? A candle sitting in whipped cream garnished with a mint leaf and a raspberry. This was cool. The syrupy chocolate goo that spelled out the birthday wish quickly disappeared as it tasted amazing.... But the fruit puree dots... I've NEVER tasted anything as good. I had to contain myself to not pick up the plate and lick it clean. It was hard. Then the dessert came out. My parents shared a hot fudge sundae thing and I had the german chocolate cake. Wow. Wow. Wow. Usually not a huge fan of chocolate cake I went out on a limb and what a great decision. Every bite of every piece of our desserts we said wow and shook our heads after. Amazing. Unbelievable. Made from scratch desserts (which you have to order right when you get there because of that) were incredible. The decaf cappuchino was the perfect pairing. This was clearly where Sanford shines. Overall - despite the manager's concern for our experience and despite the cool birthday plate and phenomenol desserts and great ambiance. The food itself left a bit to desire - and the service as well. All of the food was cooked perfectly and presented with awesome detail but the recipe's perhaps were trying a bit too hard.
(4)Lauren S.
Full disclosure: I came here about an hour or two after getting engaged. We could have gone to McDonald's and I would have thought it was the best meal of my life. So, you know, this place has a certain significance that surely colored my perception. As long as you know that. Anyways! I am rarely intimidated by a nice restaurant. I worked in (what I thought was) a fancy restaurant for a while, but Sanford is on a different level. Those four dollar signs on Yelp are no joke. I wasn't told we were going to Sanford, just that maybe I'd want to wear a dress or something. Which is good, because otherwise it would have been jeans and boat shoes for this highfalutin lady. This is the kind of restaurant where, if you get up to use the bathroom, they will fold your napkin in your absence. I'm glad I didn't wear boat shoes. You go to Sanford to celebrate something big. It's a place where budget concerns are thrown to the wind because you just want an amazing, mind-blowing meal, and some perfectly paired wines to go with it. We both had the seven-course chef's choice menu with wine pairings. We definitely came on a good night. Some highlights: * Morels. MORELS! The unicorn of fungi. I wish I could remember everything else they were cooked with but just know they melt in your mouth and almost taste like steak. Indescribable beyond that. * 15-year cheddar cheese. I will fantasize about it for the rest of my life. Served over a cheese burek and lamb (I think). I realize as I'm typing that my memory of each course in detail is a little hazy. Some background: We got engaged, I hadn't eaten in a while, our reservation was at 9 p.m. By the time we got to Sanford, I could have eaten my own arm. Then the wine started flowing, and it hit me pretty quick... But the wine, that was a huge highlight! The pairings were magnificent. I liked that I was nudged outside my usual wine comfort zone (bone dry, red or white) -- I usually would turn my nose up at a sweet white wine, like the snob I am, but the sweet selection paired with one of our courses was perfect. I never would have considered that pairing on my own. Part of what makes Sanford so unique and memorable is the expertise of the waitstaff. The servers at Sanford are professionals. They know every last detail about every element of the food and wine they bring to the table. It really does make the meal more of an ~*experience*~. A lot of restaurants claim to offer an ~*experience*~, but this is on a different level. Even with the wine going to my head, I was more thoughtful about what I was eating, thanks to the server who provided detail and context along with every course. Admittedly, I had to laugh at a couple things. Like the breadsticks. Maybe I was too hungry to take them seriously, but is it fair to say a crunchy cracker thinner than a chocolate-filled Pirouette is a breadstick? We also had a pre-dinner course that came out in a shot glass: Lamb sausage, sour cream, and a few other ingredients, but a serving size so small you almost needed a toothpick to retrieve it from the glass. We're talking early-90s Polly Pocket portions. That said, I have never been so full after a meal in my entire life. There is something to be said for taking your time through each course. The portions were not huge, but they were rich, thoughtful and flowed seamlessly from one to the next. I was pretty full by the time dessert came (not that it kept me from cleaning my plate). All said, our experience at Sanford was fantastic on every level. When the right occasion comes along, a meal at Sanford is an unbeatable way to celebrate.
(5)Joe P.
Descriptive phrase: classy dining, inventive flavors. Sanford offers a world-class dining experience. That's it. That's the story. Atmosphere is sophisticated but not stuffy; intimate and comfortable. The food options are innovative while still being approachable. My wife and I each really enjoyed our cocktails (mine a well-made Manhattan), and ordered the Bay Scallops ($13) as an appetizer. Perfect portion for two people. The ingredients were varied but somehow fit together in a manner I never would've expected. Delicious. I got to try my wife's Loin of Elk ($36) and it was as good as I expected it, though it had a surprising peppery-kick. My Veal was hands-down the best cut I'd ever tasted, and again I have to stress how surprisingly well-put-together the different ingredients were; it's a testament to the chef's imagination and skill. We even got a visit from him at the table thanking us for coming in. In fact, the service is really what got the 5th star from me. Every person there worked as a team to treat patrons like royalty without being pushy. Sanford is regarded as one of the best restaurants in Milwaukee and I have to agree. The individual parts may not be the #1 on any list, but their combination and delivery is unequaled in the area.
(5)Daniela C.
AYYYY CARAMBA. This place is amazing. We walk in and are immediately greeted by someone, who then informs us that our table will be ready shortly. Not even a minute later, the so kindly take our coats and are escorting us to our table. They have these cute homemade bread sticks there on the table for you to munch on, then bring you your drinks, followed by FRESH (*AND SO WARM*) dinner rolls, as well as a small teaser/sample of what is in store. They have a large collection of wines to choose from, and the usual suspects as well. As for the menu, there are several different options. You can choose to do a several course meal chosen by the chefs, or, as we did, pick out some dishes to try. We started out with the pear tart and the clam/lamb broth, both of which were amazing. They were followed by the squash soup that was served in a baked squash (so you can eat the squash insides with your soup!). For the actual meal, Mike had the elk (which was solo delicious and perfectly cooked) and I had the scallops. These scallops were hands down the best I've ever had, and the salad underneath it just went so well with everything. If I had to choose a last meal on death row, those scallops would be it. Service wise, you get what you pay for. I had gotten up from the table to wash my hands and someone had come over and folded my napkin for me while I was gone. Our water was never empty. I take a sip, they come over and fill it back up. Anything we could possibly need was attended to. And this wasn't just IN the restaurant. When I called ahead a few days before (because you truly need reservations to eat here...it's that insanely popular), the woman asked me if it was a special occasion, if we had any food allergies they should know about...basically, anything they could have asked to make it the perfect evening, they did. When I got there, the server double checked that it was Mike's birthday with me and coordinated a lovely personal touch of having the kitchen create a "happy birthday Mike!" plate out of sauces, and even brought a candle for me to sing to him with :) Yes, it is a bit pricey, but I truly felt that it was worth every penny for my dearest Mike's birthday. These guys know what they are doing, food and service wise, and I would TRULY recommend this place to anyone looking to celebrate a special occasion or just have a nice evening. Thanks Sanford!
(5)Laura Z.
Sanford is a big city restaurant in little Milwaukee. Located in a small unassuming building that looks more like a house than a restaurant, many don't even know it exists. It is cozy and homey inside, so the atmosphere would be great for a date. Most important, however, is the food. The chef, Justin Aprahamian, recently won the James Beard best chef of the Midwest award, which is a remarkable achievement. The portions aren't huge, but adequate, and the food is inventive, delicious, and executed to perfection. I've tried the regular menu and the 7 course tasting menu and enjoyed both. I learned about some new wines that I enjoyed with the wine tasting. My favorite dish I had here was a pork ravioli appetizer. I don't know what else to say other than this restaurant feels more like Chicago than Milwaukee but I sure am glad it's here and not there!
(5)NJ A.
I visited Milwaukee for the first time on Wednesday and decided to stop by here as Tripadvisors had rated this establishment as the number one restaurant in Milwaukee. (Hey, we use Trip Advisor so no judgment in the new year.) Other magazines even went so far as to rate this as one of the top tier restaurants in the US. This simply is not true. Or in fairness, it is simply not true to me. There were several little things that struck me as off - for example our server was unable to recommend a good wine or better yet recommend a wine. Period. Which is not quite unforgivable sacrilege but much more than simple faux pas. There was also a considerable amount of waiting time between courses. The food was very pleasant to view, but there did not seem to be much going on on the inside that night. The taste felt uninspired. In retrospect, it all felt very uninspired. The only way to describe it was as if I had been to this restaurant before and was now eating at a copy of a copy of a copy. Nothing felt fresh, new or innovative. Rather than leaving with the thought that I had ate at what some might consider the best restaurant in Milwaukee...I just, left. After paying the bill of course. On the positive - the host staff is great and the free valet was a life saver. It's also not a pricey restaurant considering its accolades. Next time in Milwaukee I may try this place again to see if I missed some critical, hidden element - although it will definitely not be my very next trip. Until then I'm going to go against the grain and give this place 3 stars.
(3)Peter C.
Amazing food, amazing service, amazing wine, amazing knowledge, OK atmosphere. I have been here twice now. One time for an order meal. The other time was with my girlfriend, brother, and sister-in-law for the prix-fix 7 course meal with wine pairings. I really enjoyed the wine pairings and where the chef selects the courses for you. This was amazing. The only reason I don't give it the full 5 stars is the atmosphere is really small in there and can't really start talking loud, as my family does especially after wine pairings.
(4)Michael U.
Items selected: Pretzel Grissini Local Trout Rillette, Capers, Dill Multi-Grain Roll with salted butter Grilled Pear and Roquefort Tart with Caramelized Onions and Walnuts Fried Squash Blossoms with Zucchini and Dried Blueberry Caponata Grilled Duck Breast with Grilled Peaches, Pickled Golden Raisins and Roasted Sunchokes, Sumac Spiced Yogurt Banana Butterscotch Toffee Tart, Banana Rum Ice Cream Blueberry Black Currant Clafoutis, Lemon Ice Cream Double Espresso on Ice Butter Cookie, Caramel Pecan Shortbread, Chocolate Chip Biscotti Said by some to be the best restaurant in Wisconsin with dinner service six days per week in an old house on North Jackson Street Justin Aprahamian's Sanford had long been on my culinary to-do list when I entered the low-lit space, and with service providing the most refined experience of my trip while the kitchen wowed with each plate it can only be said that Sanford is 'destination' dining in the least likely of space. Every bit the "white tablecloth" sort of space, with diners around me fitting a well-heeled demographic nearly twice my age, it was just after 6:30 that I entered the small restaurant and with my name soon located in the pen-and-paper register it was to a corner two-top that I was led, the plush upholstered seat nearly so comfortable as to lull one to sleep was the food on display not so eye catching and unique. Featuring a menu of seasonal dishes as well as the classics that helped put Sanford on the map it was largely with the latter that my meal would unfold and as pretzel grissini, an amuse, and then bread served to ready the palate it was in the restaurant's signature tart that my meal truly began, the rich funk of melting blue cheese finding its balance in walnuts and sweet onions inside a buttery crust to be later revisited with equally impressive results. Focusing next on a seasonal item sold as 'exquisite' by my waiter it was in a trio of lightly fried squash blossoms atop sautéed zucchini and fruity gastrique that I next indulged and following this up with a substantial cut of lightly cooked duck I couldn't help but swoon, the smoky sunchokes and sour yogurt proving an elegant juxtaposition to the sweetness of a late-summer peach. At this point already dreading a late-night drive back to Chicago and thus enjoying a double espresso served over ice I was entirely unable to decide which of Sanford's two signature desserts I would most enjoy and subsequently opting for one of each my loyalties remain divided even today, the crackling-sugar topped clafoutis a textbook example while the elegant banana arrangement of bananas beneath soft toffee in a bed of butterscotch proved every bit as decadent as its ingredients would seem. Truly a special restaurant and one equally befitting both the young and the old it was finally with a trio of cookies that the night ended and although driving two-hours after dinner is never ideal there is no doubt in my mind I'd do it again, this sort of establishment far too rare in a world dominated by noisy gastropubs and multi-course tastings of modernist cuisine.
(5)Krishna A.
As an epicurean, I am thankful to have Sanfords in town. I have been there a few times, over the years - since its inception by Sandy Amato, 23 years ago.. I understand that Sandy has sold this place.. The food is excellent.
(5)Brad S.
No matter how much Milwaukee's restaurant scene has been elevated over the past decade (and it has been elevated quite a bit), the food and service at Sanford continues to be a step above everything else in the city. And for $85, the seven course tasting menu is an absolute steal. Of course, given the seasonality and whim of Aprahamian, me listing my entire meal for you would be a waste of time, since the menu has almost certainly changed since then. Two things did stand out to me while we were stepping through our meal: the first was that three courses, plus the amuse bouche, were fish. It placed more emphasis on Lake Michigan than I was expecting to see, but it also kept the meal from getting too heavy by offering a duck dish, then a lamb dish, then a pork dish, then a beef dish, which you sometimes see. The second observation was that on one of those fish dishes there was a watercress puree that was a little bit too bitter and thick to serve as a very good sauce. That was literally the only complaint I could find in seven courses. What makes Sanford really stand out is the beer selection. Beer can often do a better job of pairing with food than wine, and especially in the Brew City you would expect to find a little more thought put into the beer menu. Sanford doesn't disappoint; from the hefty selection of local year-round bottles, there's also a very nice cellared beer selection if you're willing to spend a little more. And when compared to wine, the amount you'll spend is indeed only a little more - anywhere from $11-$60 in most cases. The obvious exception to this is the $200 bottle of Rare Bourbon County Stout, though even in that case it's priced below market value. As someone who ordered one of those bottles, it was well worth the price of admission, especially when the price tag was split with a friend. Sanford takes its Milwaukee roots to heart, offering food that's locally influenced and constantly fresh. It's also one of the first fine dining restaurants that takes its beer as seriously as its wine. It continues to be, by far, the best restaurant the city has to offer.
(5)Mai H.
Sanford is a gem in Milwaukee! Hands down the best restaurant I've been to in Milwaukee! All the classiness of a Bartolotta restaurant without the stuffiness. Zero pretentiousness, absolutely amazing waitstaff, and top-notch food! Ambience: Fine dining but comfortable, like I mentioned earlier, not stuffy, not pretentious. It was like walking into someone's finely decorated home! This place is worth every cent and more! Can't wait to return!
(5)D S.
We returned to Sanford on September 12, 2014, before leaving Milwaukee and heading to Florida. The quality of the service and the meals have become the benchmark by which we measure other restaurants. We'll be back in 2015!
(5)Lisa J.
The staff was friendly. The ambiance-dated, but I guess that's part of the charm. Great drink options-I noticed they had a $200 goose island beer (that must be a joke, right?). We ordered the tuna appetizer (this is the reason Sanford get's 4 instead of 5 stars). The tuna was not fresh, at all. I would have sent it back but didn't want to embarrass my sweet husband. The elk steak was phenomenal! Juicy and packed with great flavor. My husband ordered the bass (I was nervous about the seafood after the tuna incident-but it tasted fresh). We had the toffee ball for dessert, definitely a hit. Overall, it was good. Glad I tried it, but have no desire to rush back.
(4)Jenni R.
So, I already absolutely adored Sanford. It is one of the best restaurants I have ever been to and consistently takes me out of my comfort zone shocking me with flavors and ingredients I never would have thought would go well together, but somehow are incredible. Well, Sanford has stepped it up even a step further in my book. If I could give more than 5 stars, I absolutely would. Yesterday, my fiance had the opportunity to finally take advantage of a Christmas present that I got him 2 Christmases ago - A Day In The Kitchen at Sanford. From 2-5 he got to hang out in the kitchen at Sanford with Justin Aprahamian and the rest of the kitchen staff before returning home to get ready for a 7-course surprise tasting menu that night. All I had to see was the huge smile on his face after he returned from his day to know that it was an amazing experience! All of the staff were so welcoming to him and were willing to teach him all about what they do on a daily basis. They also were more than happy to let him actually step in and do some prep work for him - which for him is an absolute dream. At 7:00pm that night, we returned to Sanford, ready for a memorable meal. Memorable it was, from the Sanford version of a kir royale (made with peach and citrus flavors instead of the black currant ones you would get out of a typical kir) to start the meal all the way to the pistachio pound cake with goat cheese ice cream to end the meal, every single bite of food was fantastic. One of the coolest parts of the meal was seeing things pop up on the plates that Mike had either had a hand in creating or saw being prepped earlier that day. All in all, Sanford is responsible for what I am sure was one of my fiance's best days ever. I'm sure he will be talking about his experience in the kitchen as well as our incredible meal for a long time to come. Thank you Sanford for not only being an incredible restaurant, but being willing to open your arms so welcomingly to an outsider entering your world!
(5)Dave S.
OMG. OMG. It's true! This place is amazing. Wifey and I had my 49th bd/21st anni here. Took second mortgage out and away we went. 7!course tasting with wine pairing couldn't have been more perfect. Sure it's pricy but it's ok when you get what you pay for: perfect food, service and atmosphere. Best dinner since inn at little Washington. One word review: wowser
(5)Chelsie N.
Updating my review based on exceptional customer service exhibited by chef and owner Justin Aprahamian. A couple days after posting my review Justin reached out to me regarding my experience. On the phone he was kind, patient and open minded as I explained what had happened. Needless to say, I was very impressed with his consideration and definitely look forward to giving this place another shot.
(3)Amber L.
So far Ive dined at Sanford twice. The first time I went I ordered the honey roasted somsata duck and was floored...mouth watering! I went again a few weeks ago and was so bummed they changed their sauce! The waiter informed me they do that regularly. Honestly, it still did not disappoint. I like Sanford also for its quiet atmosphere and knowledgeable staff. Of course I highly recommend and will return.
(4)Joshua P.
My husband and I recently celebrated our 8th Wedding Anniversary at Sanford. I had high expectations as I had heard so many incredible things about Chef Justin Aprahamian. Everything was sublime and nuanced to perfection. We indulged in the 7-Course Surprise Tasting Menu and gave the restaurant a weeks notice of our arrival and dietary restrictions. Chef created a vegan tasting menu for me and a regular tasting menu for my beau. It was the finest, most well-thought out menu and wine pairings we have ever experienced. The doorman, the server and staff were all exemplary. I understand why they have received all the accolades they have and how they have inspired the Milwaukee food scene. Extra kudos to the incredibly dapper & well-dressed manager, Cayden, for his gracious hospitality. Chef Justin Aprahamian it was an honour to eat your edible compositions. I didn't know you could make a parsnip taste like heaven. Thank you for my vegan tasting menu and understanding my dietary restrictions. We will be back very soon and then again, and again and again - until bankruptcy.
(5)Nicole H.
When my husband took his first bite of food at our 10th anniversary dinner he stopped and paused and I thought something was wrong. His only issue is that his taste buds were in shock. He had never had such an amazing bite of food in all of our years as foodies out eating across America. I then sampled my dish and was equally impressed. From start to finish the service, quality and originality surpass the average dining experience. This was our first time visiting Sanford but will most definitely not be our last. We are already planning our next visit bringing friends and family. What an amazing night! Cheers...
(5)Cindy T.
My husband and I had an amazing meal here. The place is very intimate, fancy, and modern, but yet very comfortable. We tried the chef's tasting with wine pairing and it is hands down one of the best meals we've ever had. The service is top notch as we had our own waiter and a sommelier to our table. Will definitely visit again!!
(5)Amy J.
This place was hands down the best place I have ever dined at. Not only was the service on point, especially since they accommodated for our time crunch to make a flight, but the food was out of this world amazing and I cannot wait to go back! Awesome job Sanford!
(5)Chan L.
All the positive things that you have heard about this place is true. The service is exceptional and the food was amazing. It was a 2 hour dinner that went very fast. A unique and delicious dining experience.
(5)Kurt K.
Was in Milwaukee for one night on a Saturday and I called ahead to make a reservation for two for the Chef's Surprise Tasting Menu (not offered on Saturdays) and the staff was very friendly in making an exception and allowing the reservation! As far as the food goes, we put it in our top 5 meals list. The food was amazing. The atmosphere calm and relaxing and all of the wait staff were attentive and very enjoyable to banter with at times! The wine pairings were spot on! I can't wait to go back!
(5)Adam W.
LV and I had date night here a few weeks back it was everything we expected and then some based on some feedback from some friends. Was TR night so it was not to busy and was a very comfortable setting for a nice night out. Loved being able to clearly see in the kitchen on the way to the restroom and see the chefs in clear sight cranking out goodness. Drink menu was solid, as I like craft beers and LV likes wines. We started with the classic Roquefort Tart and heirloom carrots and trout (from rushing waters from the taste of it). Both were very tasty and well thought out with some depth. We each had some soup - lentil and also the shrimp with fennel and both delivered. Growing up on the water I LOVE seafood and the menu was spot on with enough options to satisfy. We got the grouper and the halibut and both were cooked to perfection. The corn cake under the halibut was a perfect medley with the nage. The grouper had a classic plating (almost old school) and I appreciated that to a degree. Tasted great on the crab hash. For desert we had Banana Butterscotch Toffee Tart, I am not a big sweets guy but it was very good. LV took down the plate with a smile. Service was great, not pushy and let you kick back and enjoy your meal and conversation. Also chef Justin came around toward nights end and said a few words and we chatted a bit about the dishes and such, super nice guy! All the staff were attentive and very polite and the food were the best bites I have had in Milwaukee. Highly recommended and price was not all that bad. Sorry no photos - I eat it not photograph it :-)
(5)Kevin H.
Really good restaurant. All the food was excellent. Make sure you get the drive-in for dessert, best dessert I have ever had. Highly recommend the restaurant.
(5)Damon S.
Went here with a friend after reading some good reviews. Must say, the food is good in my opinion not excellent. The service was not very good. I would describe it as snobbish. After spending 400 dollars for two it was nice if someone say thank you and goodbye when leaving the restaurant.
(2)Maria G.
This is our favorite restaurant for special occasions. We have been there twice and both times, felt like welcomed, honored guests. It is a sophisticated, yet warm, and friendly atmosphere and the food and service are world-class. Every bite is amazing. The portion sizes are perfect and allowed us to save some room for dessert, which is a must. Every flavor and each gesture are well thought-out to ensure an excellent and memorable experience. You expect an air of pretense in such a place, but there is none. The staff is friendly, very helpful and completely unassuming. Here are some of the items that we ordered and we can recommend all of them: - The cheese Slate -The field greens salad and the apple salad - the tuna appetizer - The fennel dusted beef tenderloin - the beer that the chef brewed for fall of 2014 - the swordfish - Apple tart, plum tart, German chocolate cake, berry Ciafoutis, and their lovely end of meal cookies
(5)Ami R.
My guy, Tariq, promised me a special dinner a long time ago and finally came across... and boy did he! He surprised me by taking me to Sanford in Milwaukee. Sanford D'Amato is a CIA graduate and renown Midwestern chef. He has cooked, by request, for Julia Child and the Dalai Lama. His family owned a grocery store in Milwaukee for 80 years. When the store closed in 1989 he remodeled and opened his beautiful restaurant. In 2012 he sold his business to Chef De Cuisine Justin Aprahamian. Many of D'Amato's signature dishes remain on the menu. The restaurant is small, elegant and intimate. Although you sit close to the table next to you, you do not hear the conversations of others. Everything appears to be muted by the excellent acoustics. The lighting is adequate but not harsh. The place has a modern, clean feel, with every detail adding to the ambiance. When we arrived for our 8:15 reservation we were cold and hungry. We were greeted warmly and provided with a little information about the restaurant and how our meal would proceed. On the table was the most lovely bread stick. It was so flavorful- not flavored but rather made with excellent flour and baked to perfection.. We were provided with an amuse-bouche, a tasting on a little china spoon. I cannot recall exactly what is was, but it included a trout foam and some other type of fish. That little morsel set the bar high for the rest of the meal. It was downright yummy. I was shocked when I took my first look at the menu. There were some signature cocktails available for $7.50 and some wines for $8 per glass. They chose not to pad your bill by overcharging for your alcohol consumption. I was very impressed. Of course, there was an extensive wine list but I headed for the rye and ordered a Sazerac. Tariq does not drink and often has to choose from a list that is mundane and without imagination. Here he ordered the most delicious ginger ale I have ever tasted. The bottle had bits of ginger at the bottom. Another check in the plus column. The waiter then explained the menu. He asked us to first choose our dessert because each plate is prepared individually and will bake while you are eating. Oh my. We asked if we should share something, thinking this will be a small plate experience. He told us that most folks shared and were more than satisfied. After much discussion we ordered the Banana Butterscotch Toffee Tart with homemade Banana Rum ice cream. Tariq started his meal with Slow Roasted Tomato Soup with Seared Shrimp and I had the Grilled Pear and Roquefort Tart with Caramelized Onions and Walnuts. Both dishes were bursting with flavor and screamed, "I am fresh, hot and made with love". It took us a while to decide on the entrees because everything sounded wonderful. Salmon, sturgeon, duck breast, steak and elk were passed up for bass and scallops. The bass was caramelized served on a papaya salad with a green curry sauce. The scallops were seared with kale, wild mushrooms and poached apples in a chamomile broth. I moaned with every bite which for me is a sign that the food has exceeded my expectations. Tariq was thrilled with his meal as well. We both left some food on our plates and had a lovely treat to take home for another time. The timing of the meal was impeccable. The service was fantastic and not overbearing. Right on cue, came the long awaited dessert. Oh, yes, it was magnificent. The banana was the star but it magnanimously shared the spotlight with the butterscotch toffee and the rum flavored ice cream. Although we shared this incredible course we found the serving to be more than generous and the decision to share was certainly the right one. $150 with tip. It was worth every penny.
(5)Ronnie E.
Sanford is the best restaurant in Milwaukee without a doubt! This place delivers! The atmosphere is small, but feels intimate and just right. The food and wine combination was perfection. My wife and I had the grilled rare marinated tuna, which was fresh and tasty. For the entree, we each the fennel dusted beef tenderloin - we agreed that this was the best piece of steak we've EVER had. The steak was perfectly cooked and spiced. Finally, for dessert, we ordered the banana butterscotch toffee per the recommendation of the server. The dessert was to die for and unexpectedly delicious for two chocolate lovers. The sizes are small, which can be expected for a gourmet restaurant like this one. But here, quality supersedes quantity.
(5)Jit D.
Overrated food that is all I can say.
(2)Zach O.
An extraordinary experience, amazing food, great atmosphere...SLIGHTLY less than perfect service. I'll start with my only complaint about Sanford, and that is that our server was pretty obviously new. He was a nice guy and was great in most ways, but he wasn't able to fully communicate with us what he was serving us. Luckily the table next to us was doing the same tasting menu we were at the same time, so we were able to just listen in on what their server was saying. The service is also pretty slow. I understand that these plates are not easy to prepare, nor is this the kind of place where you're supposed to sit and fly through a meal...but even considering those factors, service was very slow. Now I went to Sanford to celebrate my birthday with my sister Jess and my friend Mike. As I'm sure you're already aware, this is not a meal to be taken lightly...this is an experience. We each did the tasting menu, 7 courses including the Amuse Bouche and a dessert. The first course is always an Amuse bouche, and it is always different. It's purpose, for all of you that don't already know, is to cleanse your pallet and get your taste buds to wake up. The next 4 courses will be either seafood or meat. It's been so long now I can't remember exactly what we had. But I know I was served, veal, duck, elk, and scallops...and they were all outrageously unique and delicious. I've been craving elk ever since. The 6th course was a basil and lemon-grass soup, with a small scoop of homemade peach sorbet. It was light, refreshing, and a perfect preemptive strike on dessert. Dessert was cranberry tarts with homemade vanilla bean ice cream. Now, as my sister stated in another review (Jessica Grace), the cranberry tarts were a little aggressive. It was possible to hit a perfect mix of the tart and the ice cream, but if you got the balance wrong it was hard to keep your cheeks from puckering.
(4)Irish M.
We were a party of four and ordered the chef surprise tasting menu, with two in our party ordering the wine pairing. We enjoyed the food so much we weren't ready to be finished after our final course. What did we do? Ordered two fabulous chocolate desserts, of course! I think what I saw happening in what I'm sure he thought was a private moment sums it up. I caught site of a man wiping his plate clean of sauce with his finger. I chuckled because my table asked for pieces of my bread to sop sauce up, using their forks....
(5)Ellie B.
My husband and I came here for my birthday dinner. We were both really excited because we had never been and had only heard the best things. My husband was really impressed when he called ahead for the reservation and to let them know I am a vegetarian because they asked a lot of follow-up questions about what I could and could not eat. When we arrived we were greeted warmly and seated right away. The water was poured, menus were handed out, and I started nibbling on the breadsticks. Warm rolls were also brought out shortly after ordering. There are appetizers and salads that are vegetarian but no entrees. Our server explained that I could order my entree one of two ways - take a look at the entrees and if components of it sound good, they can make something that way OR let them make something up completely. I chose the latter, because how fun is that?! We shared the grilled pear and roquefort tart with carmelized onions and it was fantastic. My husband got a red curry soup and I'm sure he dreamed about it last night because he loved it so much. I also loved my apple and gorgonzola salad. The chefs made a delicious vegetarian entree for me. It involved lentils, endive, turnips, and a lemon turnip cream sauce that was drool-worthy. Maybe that doesn't sound like the most exciting thing to everyone, but trust me it was great. You just know you're in good hands with anything Sanford makes for you, I've come to find. I'm sure the banana, butterscotch, toffee tart has been on their menu for a while, but I really feel like this dessert was made for me. It's all of my favorite things combined together. It was probably one of the best desserts I've ever had. We'll definitely be back.
(5)Steven And Natalie L.
Sanford is one of the best restaurants in Milwaukee, if not the best. Absolutely phenomenal. The food is extraordinary, the atmosphere is impeccable, and the service is unbeatable. Make reservations ahead of time. It has been fully booked almost every time we've gone. Men should wear a jacket, jacket & tie, or suit. Ladies, nice slacks, skirt, or a nice cocktail dress.
(5)J T.
Swordfish with pumpernickle reduction... Oh my! We always seek out the Beard award nominees and winners when traveling. This brought us to Sanford. The phenomenal tasting menu, paired wine, and great service will bring us back. Arrived for our 8:30 reservation after a long day of driving. Despite being a little early, we were promptly seated. Very cozy and charming dining room. After the server walked us through the menu, we treated ourselves to the chefs surprise tasting menu and paired wines. It ended up being one of the better meals we have ever enjoyed. Well executed and timed. Just the right portions. Surprising flavor combinations. The hands down highlight was the swordfish with caraway and pumpernickle reduction. Wow. Wines were spot on. The only minor disappointment was the dessert course wine. Was a bit too syrupy sweet. Would have preferred something more unique and crisp.
(5)Claude S.
(Visited 11/13/2013) I was thoroughly impressed with the quality and service we received at Sanford. Most restaurants are intimidated by a large group, but the staff catered to our party of 10 quite easily. Our main server was Ralph; he was very open and knowledgeable about with everyone's questions. We had a couple of vegetarian diners that Sanford's was eagerly to please with alternatives to the listed menu items. The appetizers were incredible; I had the Lamp Coppa, slices of lamb with Pickled Fennel and Golden Raisins and a Toasted Fennel Dressing, my main course consisted of Maple Lacquered Duck Breast with Roasted Broccoli and Fingerling Potatoes, Burnt Orange Vinaigrette, followed by the Italian Plum Tart with Malt Ice Cream. Overall our experience was incredible and will definitely return to this extremely eclectic European style restaurant.
(5)Tom C.
If you've been in Milwaukee for a minute you've likely heard about Sanford. Its award-winning cuisine and celebrity chef founder Sandy D'Amato enjoy a deserved degree of prominence. Perhaps less well known is the totality of epicurean pleasure to be enjoyed when dining at Sanford. Plenty of critics more knowledgeable and discerning than me will tell you the food at Sanford is outstanding. But what wowed me was the playful medley of flavors. I would never have guessed that grilled pear, Roquefort cheese, caramelized onions and walnuts could taste good together, but -- exquisite! The dining room decor is elegantly modern, perfect for a romantic dinner before a night out on the town but relaxed enough against formality for your senses to be swept away. The waitstaff prove themselves essential to the overall experience: providing an encyclopedic knowledge of the menu, tending diners with care and a sense of urgency, and also supplying levity to round out any awkwardness.
(5)Karrie M.
How do I even begin... Sanford is BY FAR the best dining experience I have had in Milwaukee. All around. No doubt. There isn't even a close second. Food: Fantastic. Favorites: Appetizer: Sauté of Yukon Golds, Ramps, Morels and Fiddleheads with basil oil. OH. MY. GOD. SO GOOD. (this is the most appropriate use of all-caps I have ever encountered :) ). Entree: Chargrilled loin of elk with elk sausage, grilled endive, cherry sauce... I knew I wanted this before I got there, and I was not disappointed. Perfectly cooked, perfectly seasoned. I didn't even notice the salt and pepper grinders on the table as I never once thought I would need them! Dessert: Warm lemon pound cake with black tea ice cream. Soooo smooth, warm, just the right amount of lemon, with some perfect mixed berries to tie it all together. (I must admit, I did like my husband's choice of the Georgia peach tart with sorghum ice cream a bit better - it was just Perfect in every way :) ). Service: Impeccable. Everyone was so friendly but extremely professional. Atmosphere: Wonderful. It is definitely an "upscale" place, but I never once felt like they were trying for a snobbish feel. People were dressed primarily in at least business cas, but some were in less formal attire. I think that however you come would be well-accepted and not at all frowned upon, because they really just want you to enjoy your dining experience, no matter who you are or what you are wearing. In the end, we will most definitely be going back. I am looking forward to trying the 7 course surprise tasting menu they have during the week! PS - complimentary valet parking!
(5)Jessica O.
Tasting menu experience #2 Demoting Sanford to 4 stars feels like spray painting in a church. Just...disrespectful and wrong on so many levels. But it's true. I called Sanford early in the week to ask if they would mind doing a tasting menu on the weekend if we were flexible with the time (their website says they won't, but I had a friend coming in from out of town, so I thought it couldn't hurt to ask). They were more than willing to accomodate the request, and said it would be great if we could come in at 8:30. So this may have been why our experience was less than awesome...maybe do NOT call and request the tasting menu on the weekends... Our server was friendly, but not as helpful or attentive as the previous visit (but, granted, we arrived after the dinner rush...so he was probably tired). We wound up waiting a LONG time between courses, even though the restaurant didn't seem that much busier than the first time we dined there. And by a long time, I mean, like, up to twenty minutes after our plates were cleared. There was no explanation for why things were taking longer...in fact, no one stopped by to check on us between courses. Since I babbled for pages and pages last time, I will make a concise list this time: Amuse bouche: a carrot and ginger concoction that tasted overwhelmingly like chicken broth. 1st course: Seared scallop with tomatoes and mushrooms: scallop didn't have the crunchy outer sear that I adore...but the tomatoes were the sweetest that I've ever had. 2nd course: Salmon with miso glazed noodles and ginger: Absolutely delicious. 3rd course: Monkfish with roasted red pepper and a mint sauce: incredible, an amazing blend of flavors. 4th course: Duck confit stuffed with duck sausage, pumpkin flan, and, I believe, ramps: also amazing. The pumpkin flan was unexpected and spectacular. 5th course: Elk with whipped herb potatoes, cherry gastrique, and escarole. The cherry was the perfect pairing for elk - there was no overwhelming gamey-ness. 6th course: Thai basil and lemon grass soup with white peach sorbet. Delicious. Much less sweet than the canteloupe soup and raspberry sorbet that we had the previous time. Dessert: Cranberry tart with homemade vanilla ice cream. The vanilla ice cream: outstanding. The cranberry tart...not so much. It was just...toooooo much cranberry. It was basically a pie shell stuffed with about fifty cranberries, and very little else to cut the tartness. It hurts my fingers to criticize Sanford, but I did not love. After we were finished, we got the delightful cookie plate, then sat for easily half an hour waiting for our bill. It occurred to us that maybe the waiter was waiting for us to finish the tiny swig of wine that was left in each of our glasses, but he wasn't around to check. The restaurant was closing down by that time, so maybe he went to do his side work. Either way, the length of the wait was a bit awkward. So...minus a star for the insanely slow service and the cranberry tart. I was so thrilled that Sanford was willing to bend the rules for us, but I made it clear on the phone that I absolutely did not mind if they would be too busy, because we were happy to order from the main menu. Oh well...
(4)May B.
I've been waiting for a long time to come visit this place and finally had a chance to go and boy I wish I did it sooner. Sanford's a very quaint place with only a small amount of seating - intimate, but actually didn't feel that crowded. The music was very very faint, I could barely hear it (actually didn't until the restaurant started clearing out). I knew from the start that I wanted to try as much as I could, so I had an appetizer, salad, entree, and dessert. The chef started us with an amuse bouche - some sort of tongue with roasted califlower, and some other things - so good. The only bad thing about amuse bouches - they are way too small! The appetizer I tried is not listed on their website, a trout perogi with beets. It was such a great mix of flavors - so different than I've tasted.The salad, Field Greens with Prosciutto di Parma, Aged Wisconsin Asiago and Brittle Pear Wafers, Orange Parsley Vinaigrette - omg so good. I could have eaten a big version of that for an entree. I ordered a mongfish entree, which was with an olive salad and puree. By this time I was getting pretty stuffed - I thought it was good - but not the best thing I had that night and could have passed on the puree - of olives I believe. The reduction sauce on it which was sweeter, I enjoyed, and I think the plate could have used just a little more. For dessert, I had the Bittersweet "Intentional" Hawaiian Vintage Chocolate Tart with Coffee Ice Cream - OMG to die for. Almost everyone tried everyone else's dessert and I think I ruined everyone else's selection because mine was so good. I think everyone's dessert tasted good, but mine was just that much better. Then we were served a sweets plate - which we all could barely eat much of, but I managed to try a couple of things. The service was pretty good - I found our server to be a bit strange, but the other staff who brought drinks and entrees out were great. As for the bill, I didn't find it outrageous at all, considering the food was so delicious. I would definitely go back again!
(5)Larry P.
Tasty, creative dishes. Enjoyed the quail and foie gras appetizer, the greens and prosciutto salad. The entrees were good, but not amazing. Snapper with crab potato pancake was a bit overcooked. The veal with grapes and spinach had a sauce that was a bit heavy. The biggest reason for my low score is that the service - while attentive - was unable to adequately describe any of the dishes, a serious downer. I've never been to a highly ranked foodie restaurant like this with servers who couldn't explain the dishes or make helpful recommendations. When they brought the food, it was deposited on our table with nary a word - so hard to remember the specifics of what we were eating. Also for a restaurant that prides itself on a great beer selection, how can they not have a single beer on tap?
(3)Joe C.
Great service, great food, decent prices, and an amazing macadamia nut tart (was made gluten free!)
(5)Ken C.
Sanford is a restaurant where the emphasis is on the cuisine. Now days we have become used to a fine dining experience being about an enormous steak and oversized side dishes so that you have consumed two or three thousand calories in a single meal and dropped hundreds of dollars for the privilege. But in the end a focus on fresh ingredients and flavors that explode on your tongue will always be more exciting and more interesting and leave you wondering when can I eat here again? That's how I see Sanford. They are not a pretentious or bloated establishment serving ridiculous portions but they are a restaurant that will leave you taste buds humming for a return visit. The atmosphere is warm inviting romantic and quieter than a lot of modern restaurants. I would rate them as one of the ten best restaurants I have ever eaten at in my life and I eat at a lot of nice places in a lot of US cities and towns. The portion sizes are correct. If your looking for a volume food experience this isn't it, but it is amazing food and you will savor every nibble and bite. Your experience starts with a little tasting appetizer that is out of this world! The breadsticks on the table are awesome. The dinner roll is crusty outside warm and has a tender bread texture that is terrific. I had the summer tasting menu with the grouper in place of the swordfish. My meal began with the yellow tomato Gazpacho which was one of the four or five best soups I have ever eaten. The grouper was cooked perfectly and served with miso noodles and green beans. I enjoyed a glass of Vouvray with my meal and finished with a house made fruit infused brandy and wine after dinner drink. I also tasted the peach tart which was delicious! I would highly recommend you visit Sanford and enjoy their fabulous and creative cuisine. It will be a dining experience you will never forget and the prices are reasonable for the freshness and quality of the dishes they serve. Congratulations Sanford! You are an amazing and inspirational business and I very much enjoyed my visit.
(5)Alice S.
Perfect. Just perfect. First, they are crazy nice, from the awesome, Nietszche-reading valet to the sommelier to the wait-staff. My parents are in town so the 8yo had to be included, and they absolutely bent over backwards to accommodate her (she's pretty easy though). The environment is sublime, quiet and calm. And the food is a masterpiece from start to finish. The tuna appetizer was nice and rare, the gazpacho, the fish soup, the squash blossoms (big ups for those). Oh, and the waitress noticed that the 8yo loved the squash blossoms so they incorporated those into her vegetable platter that they made special for her. The elk sauce was great, the scallops were lovely, the lamb, the crime brûlée...I have not a single complaint. Make your feet take you there.
(5)Joan S.
I have been to many fine dining resturants in many cities. Sanford's has just moved to my number one. Food was perfection, service was the absolute best. Don't wait for a special occasion. Dinner at Sanford's IS the occasion.
(5)Dr. J.
Visited Sanfords for our annual anniversary dinner. I tell you- the food and service is just plain stellar every single time we visit! It is the most relaxing atmosphere where you are treated like a real guest. The food is an artful creation to both the eyes and the palate! The handmade rosemary bread sticks make my mouth water just thinking about them! We arrived on this particular Friday night for our 8pm reservation and there were maybe 2 dozen other guests - just a perfect hum of energy in the intimate dining room. The odd thing was that by the time our dessert arrived with coffee at 9:20pm we were the only people left in the place. That was a little weird. It felt like the place NOT to be.
(5)Malek K.
This restaurant is extremely nice with extremely nice service and staff! you feel very welcome and the decor is warm and cozy! As soon as you come in they will offer a special taste from the chef, our taste was a small bite of shrimp on coconut gel. My only suggestion would be bring the bread and butter at the beginning and not with the entree during the main course I have ordered the Roasted Monkfish with Seared Brussels Sprouts and Wild Mushroom, Spiced Red Wine Reduction - it is different - it is good size , it was my 1st time tasting the Monkfish it is a thick fish the chef had cut it in medallions . Not a great fan of the Monkfish My friends ordered Grilled Wild Sturgeon* on Crab Hash, Pancetta Red Onion Vinaigrette - I took a bite of it - this is an amazing plate!!! and very tasty and the decor. this is a highly recommended plate then for desert we took the orange creme brulee it is very tasty and big size and the second desert we took the chocolate tofu bar topped on a Chantilly sauce and an ice cream also topped with cream and Chantilly - check the picture the ice cream (i am not great fan of ice cream) but this one was amazing I took some pictures of it the only problem is that for a monday night it was easy to park I wonder if on Friday they have valet or weekend check the pictures
(4)Jax B.
Alright - I finally was able to experience Sanford and I'm sorry to say that I didn't really like it. Driving up it did not seem like a classy dining location. The outside and inside were not what I was expecting. In addition, the guy outside, who I presume was the valet attendant (because he was still there when we left), looked more like someone who was loitering and might rob you. We were seated and asked if we would like a glass of wine before we were even given a drink menu. So, right away we had to ask for something that should have been provided. On our table we had what appeared to be a silver bell (like you would find at the bakery counter), sticks, and a vase with a single orchid bud in it. We will get back to the bell and sticks later. It took a while to get our drinks. Later our waiter came and we ordered our food. He did not ask if we had any questions about the menu. He must think that we all eat these types of things every night. I actually whipped out google on my phone to find out what "ramps" are. Still, I did ask about a couple things on the menu and felt awkward doing so. I felt that the menu was heavy on meat and seafood. I wish there would have been a pasta or even a chicken option. Also, everything except one seafood option on the Main Course menu had a star by it, which meant it was not going to be fully cooked. When asked, I requested my Tenderloin to be cooked medium well... when it came out - that thing was barely meduim. My meal = Glass of Riesling x2 Appetizer: Pea and Proscuitto Ravioli Salad: Field Greens with Prosciutto di Parma Main Course: Fennel Dusted Beef Tenderloin Dessert: German Chocolate Cake with Almond Frosting In between the Appetizer and the salad, we were given a roll, but no butter. I can say that all of the food was OK, not "wow" or "yummy". Except the salad, that was gross. Back to the bell and sticks. After the Main Course, a different server took the sticks and bell off the table. (I think at least 4 different servers were at our table that night - odd.) That's when I asked what they were. Apparently the sticks were edible and the bell had butter inside. She was surprised that no one explained that to us. Um, yeah that would have been nice. Other surprises: Surprisingly quiet and surprisingly cold inside. $200 including 20% tip for two people. I am glad I tried Sanford, but I will not be going back.
(2)Joanna T.
Another winner last night! Ten stars for Sanford! Apps: Pea and proscuitto ravioli: little pockets of heaven, served in a Parmesan broth. Grilled mortadella: maybe the best item of the night and miles away from deli mortadella. This was rich and delicious - I will never look at mortadella the same. 2nd course: Waterzooi soup: a thick leek based soup from Belguim. A killer vegetable stock really made this one sing. Proscuitto and Parmesan salad: simple & classic. Entrees: Scallops and shrimp with baby samosas: my husband was afraid of this one because he hates Indian food but was won over by the scallops. He raved about it and jealously guarded every bite. He even offered to stop in the kitchen and eat all the rest so no one else would have to worry about whether to order it (his humanitarian offer was not accepted). Milk cooked pork with peas & polenta: inspired by a recent trip to Tuscany. So tender and the crisp polenta added a nice touch of sweetness. Desserts: Banana butterscotch tart: fresh banana slices topped with toffee chips and caramel. Words don't do this one justice The drive in: a playful take on a drive in sundae featuring frozen chocolate mousse, homemade toffee and ice cream. Again, I didn't get too much of this one as the husband was all over it. Wine: a good value Austrian rose. I maintain that Sanford has the best list out there. You can spend $500 but you can also spend $19. That's right, there was a bottle for $19. Really on a budget: you can have a cold can of MGD for $3.50 and I'm pretty sure it comes with a free slap upside the head. If it doesn't, it should. Service: excellent, professional and a wee bit stiff. That was ok because Chef Aparahaim stopped by at the end. I told him how I still rave about the Armenian soup I had the last time, and he said the next time we cone to call ahead and they will make it for me. How cool is that? Summary - if you can afford to go you should. You have not really eaten in the 414 without a trip to Sanford.
(5)Rachel F.
I feel like I shouldn't even review Sanford. I feel like I can't. I feel like I need a whole new Yelp to review Sanford, because it doesn't even exist within the perimeters of the 5-star rating system as I've defined them for all the reviews previous to this one. I feel like if Sanford ends up next to all my other reviews, then it gets eight stars. Ten. Twelve. Sanford is world class in Milwaukee. Sanford was world class before culinary artistry of this caliber was popular pretty much anywhere else, back in the early '80s (or late '70s, I'm not sure). Sanford is historically one of the first and is still one of the best. Take that, everywhere else. I mean it this time. I've been to Sanford twice. The first time I visited over two years ago, I was lucky enough to experience the seven course tasting complete with wine parings. I did so early on in my progression as an appreciator of fantastic and nuanced food/dishes, but was still able to understand how uniquely spectacular Sanford was/is. (God I hate that word. Foodie. I can't use it anymore.) This past time around, we went a more conventional route with dinner. App, soups, entrees, dessert, bottle of wine and after dinner drinks. (Brace yourself, kids. This one's going to be a long one.) Wine: This is always my department when we go out. I know how to pair, dangnabbit. That being said, our course choices weren't exactly fluid, and didn't necessarily move from light to heavy, or have much in the way of cohesion between his/hers choices. They were sort of all over the place. Up the ante! I'm thinking a Pinot Noir with some grip and some fruit but not too brazenly fruity, and the sommelier agrees. Upon his suggestion, we end up with something that works with all courses. I can't remember the name, but Central Coast, I think. App: We waffle. I'm opinionated, and he's flexible. I feel like I don't want it to be too heavy, and we agree on the lamb app. Lahmajoun. It was perfect in every way. It reminded me of how delicious lamb can be, and how I'd love to eat more of it, despite their cuddly faces. Soups: I have Wild Striped Bass Plaki in sweet and sour broth. He has some brown butter parsnip vegetable mushroom deal. His? Not as sweet as I thought it would be, and this is a pleasant surprise. Delicious, but I didn't order it because it seemed more fall than burgeoning spring to me. Mine? Bass was cooked to perfection, parsley a fantastic addition to freshen up the citrus-y veggie-ness of the broth. (Why does parsley get a bad rep? It's so instrumental at times... ) Entrees: Oh snap. He wins. I get the Wild Sturgeon on crab hash with w/ pancetta red onion vinaigrette. It was so so good. The sturgeon? Meaty and cooked to perfection. The hash "really tied the room" together, between that and the spinach and the flavorful vinaigrette. (It was quite a robust vinaigrette, to be sure.) My dish was fantastic. The problem? I HAD A BITE OF HIS AND IT WAS ALL OVER. Enter the Monkfish. ---- I had Monkfish liver in NY, but had never actually had Monkfish proper. Holy. Effing. Sheeeet. ---- This dish? Perfection. Truly. (Roasted Monkfish with Seared Brussels Sprouts and Wild Mushrooms, Spiced Red Wine Reduction) It doesn't sound terribly fancy. I mean, it does, but ceteris parabis, it's in keeping with the rest of the meal. But for some reason, this dish, this one dish, was quite possibly one of the most amazing things I've ever ingested in my 26 on this green earth. (heavy sigh) (more sigh) I don't even want to go on because now I'm just thinking about the Monkfish. But dessert and my port were the end cap to a beautiful meal. Our server was extremely professional yet approachable. The sommelier was friendly and helpful. The best part, staff-wise? The James Beard nominated chef (Justin) came out at the end of service to greet us and ask how our experience was. That's old school, folks. That's no pretense, and that's class. In an era of celebrity chefs and people that follow them like groupies, this guy was humble and honest and charming. Both me and the mister were extremely impressed with this. Sanford, you are truly world class. You are Milwaukee's (and quite possibly the entire Midwest's) shining star. For this reason, Milwaukee is winning.
(5)Ellen F.
A perfect evening! Being from out of town we researched where to celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary. - Sanford kept popping up. From the outside we thought maybe we had made a mistake - it is in a small old brick building - but inside was pure elegance. The service was flawless and the meal exquisite. We particularly enjoyed the cheese tray - a beautiful and delicious assortment of Wisconsin cheeses presented with a description card that we saved as a souvenir. The sturgeon - a specialty of the house - exceeded expectations. The prices were not out of line with this very fine dining experience.
(5)Brianna N.
Definitely a special occasion spot, but worth every penny when you're celebrating just that. If you have an adventurous palate, try the chef tasting with wine pairing and you won't be disappointed. While the ambiance leaves a little bit to be desired, service is spot on. I'll definitely be back...perhaps when summer produce is at it's peak!
(4)Mary C.
Excellent food, wonderful quiet atmosphere, no pressure, no hard sell..just a great restaurant
(5)Howard L.
We picked a good time to try Sanford. We came up to the Riverside Theatre for a concert and came here for dinner beforehand. It's an interesting fine dining restaurant, that is housed in an old grocery store in a residential neighborhood in near north side of Milwaukee. The owners/chef are second generation and used to operate the grocery store. They also have a bakery in Milwaukee under the same ownership - Harlequin bakery. Sanford is celebrating their 20th anniversary with a 4 course $49/head prix fix menu, and that's a relative good deal for this place. Tonight, it was mussels appetizer, gazpacho, grilled salmon, and poppyseed shortbread with strawberries. Otherwise, entrees are in the $35 range. Our party also enjoyed chargrilled elk with spaetzle, halibut with risotto, and seared scallops and lobster. All were presented like artwork, and you almost don't want to eat them. You just want to sit there and gawk. Jeff, our server, was friendly and knowledgeable, and actually personally squeezed our party in on relatively short notice for the day. The only gripe I might have is that the portions are pretty small for the price - but that's not necessarily a surprise at a high end place like this. It's definitely a special occasion place that we enjoyed.
(4)Lynda M.
The 7 course with wine pairing was without a doubt the best meal I've ever had. From amazing food to wonderful service, this is the dining experience that can't be beat.
(5)Steve C.
It's hard not to be impressed by a dinner at Sanford. The combination of the space, the food and the service is hard to match in Milwaukee -- which is saying a lot. This has become quite the foodie city since the era when Sanford was the only game in town. Service was well-paced and attentive. Four courses played out almost perfectly over 2.5 hours, with only one lag where we wondered when our server would be back to check on us. Other than that, service was practically transparent. Plates were cleared and glasses filled in movements we barely noticed. Flavors were intense from the tiny amuse through the Wisconsin-sized desert. The trout and tuna amuse was a tiny burst of pickle power that brought our taste buds to attention. Starters included a charred octopus dish that made the little beastie taste meaty -- thanks to a pesto-like sauce and red wine reduction. Beet green ravioli were bright and earthy, with acidity and the peppery taste of the greens against the sweet depth of roasted beets. We tried both soups -- the roasted tomato and the eggplant. Each one distilled the vegetables to a creamy liquid form which tasted more of the ingredients than they do on their own. Mains of scallops and beef strip loin were fairly conventional -- though delicious. A broth with vaguely Caribbean flavors brought back memories of dishes heavy with ginger and clove. The steak and sausage was brightened by pickled peppers, evoking the taste of a sausage and beef combo sandwich with giardinera... Quite fun! Desserts were generous and made to order. Banana and chocolate tarts were similar in structure and accompanied by just enough ice cream to keep things interesting. The room was more sharp than expected. Soft greys and warm light made the tiny room feel intimate without being claustrophobic. Overall... Very, very good, If you're willing to drive 90 miles south, you'll find better service and more elegant spaces. But the food at Sanford really is some of the best around. Others in Milwaukee are coming close to this quality dining experience, which should make it fun to see how the veteran restaurant raises its game.
(4)Jon D.
I've been here twice, and the food is consistently outstanding. The preparation, freshness, everything is to a T. The wine list is long, the after dinner drink list is fantastic. The service is second to none, of anywhere I've been in any major city. The place itself is immaculately clean. Following, though is all constructive criticism; and I'm sure you won't find a better prepared scallop in hundreds of miles. That being said, the decor is a bit outdated, as is the presentation of the dishes. The portion size, especially on the desert is quite large. I feel they could cut back on the amount of items on the menu, although it does fill a page quite nicely. Actually. That's it. Perhaps maybe a small cocktail menu, with about 5 classics, although there IS a full bar, and the Manhattan made for me (no doubt by the waiter) was perfect. Oh, that being said, at a place like this I feel they SHOULD make their own cherries for the cocktails. That's my only other criticism. So all in all, if you have the chance, and the funds. Stop by. Even with two bottles of wine, entree's, appetizers, and deserts, plus a cheese plate and after dinner drinks or coffee for everyone in our party, this place STILL came out to around $110 give or take a person. That right there is a bargain.
(5)Eric V.
If you're looking for a high end, white tablecloth dinner in Milwaukee then look no further than Sanford Restaurant. Highlights from my four course seasonal menu included a delicious crispy pork shank dressed with bread & butter pickles and a bright lemon caraway vinaigrette, as well as a perfectly cooked Scottish Salmon with an unique accompaniment of orange pepper shallots for additional layers of flavor. My coworker was nice enough to offer a taste of her Sake Glazed Black Cod which was amazing, as well. In terms of atmosphere, I would definitely say it's more formal than casual, but the service remains friendly, attentive, and informative. In the end you're going to pay a fine dining price tag, but rest assured you'll have the dining experience and creative, high quality food to match.
(5)Rowena M.
Great little find in Milwaukee! Places like Sanford would be swamped had it been in Chicago. Cozy restaurant tucked in a residential neighborhood with unique dishes. The menu is small but I don't mind. I'd rather have them specialize on a few things rather than try to offer everything but the kitchen sink. We opted for the tasting menu- sautéed frog legs, mushroom soup, salmon and pear tarte for dessert. The wine list was also quite impressive and manageable- not like other places that have 100-pg wine list! Ambience was lovely and intimate- perfect for dates and special occasions.
(4)Tim H.
World class fine dining in Milwaukee. Impeccable service. High quality ingredients, flawless prep, beautiful presentation. Everything I had was very well done. I just wish I was hungrier on my visit so I could have ordered and eaten more. The best dishes I had were the seafood soup and salmon with dill sauce. Try the cranberry Ginger infused vodka. Spicy, sweet and easy to drink.
(5)Travis D.
I went here for the first time for New Year 's Eve and I was totally blown away. This place was amazing, truly as the Yelp star rating states, this is as good as it gets in Milwaukee. This Restaurant has such high standards that come through from perfectly executed and paired dishes to impeccable staff. Sometimes at fine dining restaurants the staff can come off as either "robotic" or "awkwardly fake friendly", not here. You get the feeling that this staff was very proud to be part of such a great restaurant. Every dish we had was perfectly cooked, and well thought out. We had a wine pairing with our food and every one was perfectly paired with the dish. To show you how seriously they take service, after our dinner and ringing in the new year there, we asked if they could call us a Cab, since we were staying downtown for new year's. They worked the phones for over 15 minutes until they were able to get a cab company to pick up (New Year's eve, they were busy). While they were calling cab companies, they had their door guy outside, vigorously trying to hail a cab, however, the cabs just kept shooting by. After paying our bill, getting our coats, and heading to the door, one of the servers apologized, but the cab company said it would be about 2 hours before they can get a car to us... Well GET THIS, the owner DROVE US PERSONALLY back to our hotel. She didn't have a staff member do it, she pulled up personally in her car, and gave us a ride back to our hotel....WOW this place gets it!
(5)Mary D.
I was so excited to try Sanford. My finace and I went last night, and had the Florence experience 4 course menu, with the suggested wine pairings. The wine pairings were spot-on. Service was attentive but slow. Very often we waited up to 15 minutes with empty glasses. I understand this is an experience, but we were there for 2 1/2 hours. The food was good, with the exception of my swordfish (in an Italian sweet-sour sauce), which was overcooked. I hate to dis Sanford, because I know Sandy d'Amato is an amazing chef, as well as Justin the chef du cuisine. It was hard not to be disappointed though, after high expectations. It was a good meal and a nice experience but cannot compare to fine dining we have experienced elsewhere, sorry.
(3)Yilda A.
Went on Valentines day and had a great 4 course meal. From the great service to the excellent food it was a perfect date. They even had a special pink Cocktail for valentines. For the meal I had the beef tenderloin and my date had the elk both were perfect.
(5)T D.
Enjoyed my 1st visit here in early June 2013 during a visit to Mke (I'm from CT). A small dining room, with stellar service and a lovely menu. However, I must say I would not make a point to return. The dishes were artfully presented but some just didn't impress my palate. Ex - I had shrimp as an app and it tasted of iodine. I wouldn't expect that here. It's been a few weeks since the visit, so I can't recall specifics on what we had. I think I'll remember their ice cream more than anything else I ate - was delicious. Definitely a restaurant to speak in low voices and expect formalities from the staff, who will make you feel like royalty.
(3)Richard S.
Since I have been working Downtown the past few weeks, I have been staying after work a few nights to remind myself how cool Milwaukee can be. Friday I had dinner at Sanford. A true gem in Milwaukee's dining scene. I arrived a few minutes early and was seated at my white linen table right away. I immediately noticed two long Bread sticks crossed in an X laying right on the white tablecloth. This was just the first of many unique touches that occurred throughout my evening. I knew what I wanted and ordered The Chef's Surprise Menu with Wine Pairings. Now on to the food! 1) An Amuse of Smoked Shrimp, Basmati Rice and Preserved Lemon. The bright flavor of the lemon, smokiness of the shrimp, and the nuttiness of the rice truly did awaken my palate. 2) House made Porchetta, Peppered Celery, Pickled Shallot, and Pork Reduction. This was a wonderful combination of flavors. The richness of the Pork and the sauce, the mild celery with a slight hint of heat from the pepper, and the tartness of the pickled shallots all worked together to form a whole that was much greater than its parts. Served with a 2007 Banyan Santa Lucia Highlands Riesling. The sweetness of the wine worked very well with the richness of the dish. 3) Seared Scallop with a Ramp Puree. Scallops are my favorite Seafood and this one was perfect. A nicely seared crust and a soft, almost creamy interior. The ramp Puree was so good that I suggested to my server, Jeff, that they should serve it as a soup. Served with a 2006 Domaine Bourillon Demi Sec Vouvray. The wines slight tartness worked perfectly with this dish. 4)Sablefish, Buckwheat Pasta, Sesame Ginger Sauce. The fish had been marinated in Sake and Soy, giving it a slightly sweet exterior. Just like the Scallop, it was beautifully soft and fell apart under the slightest pressure from my fork. Paired with a 2007 Chakana Malbec. The velvety texture and fruity flavor of the wine complemented Richness of the fish and the bright ginger in the sauce. 5) Grilled Elk with Saba Sauce,Grilled Baby Onions and Plums. Elk is my favorite gamemeat, and this was the best I have ever had. Tender and a perfect medium rare with a slightly smoky charred flavor. The grilled Plums and Onions, along with the Saba Sauce provided a slightly sweet counterpoint. Served with a 2006 Laurel Glen Reds. This dark, peppery Wine was perfect with the Grilled Elk. 6) Tandoori Filet of Beef,Chickpea Puree, Yogurt and Grilled Baby Squash. Another perfectly cooked piece of meat. This time with the wonderful red hue of Tandoori Cooking. The spicy flavors of Indian Cuisine could easily have over powered this dish, but they were so skillfully handled that they only added to the flavor of the beef. The Yogurt added a nice cooling element. Served with a 2007 Seghesio Zinfandel. The berry flavors in the wine worked very well with the spiciness of the beef. 7) Wisconsin Gorgonzola with Spiced Walnuts and Grapes. A super Cheese. Creamy texture, with that wonderfully funky flavor from the veins of mold. If you are a cheese lover you'll know what I mean. No wine with this course. 8) A Duo of Desserts, Apricot Tart and Pecan Creme Brulee. The Tart had a tender, flaky, buttery crust and the Apricots tasted like fresh fruit. The Brulee had a perfectly crisp sugar crust that cracked whenI tapped it with my spoon. Underneath was a creamy, rich custard. This was actually paired with two wines. A 2006 Domaine Durban Muscat de Beaumes and a 2007 Chiarlo Moscato di Asti. This was wonderful end to one of the best meals of my life. The quality of service matched the meal in every way. From the moment I arrived, I was made to feel like an old friend, even though It has been 17 years since my last visit. The staff answered every question and anticipated my every need. They are wheelchair accessible and during my meal I noticed something else very cool. I glanced across the room at one point and noticed a staff member signing to a customer. I have never seen that before, and thought it was worth passing on to my fellow Yelpers.
(5)Unyime E.
So I've been here three times with my fiancée, and each time has been a distinctly different and unforgettable experience. I could go on for ages about how great this place is and how this restaurant is the Gold Standard when it comes to fine dining in Milwaukee, but I think Rachel F. and Richard S. do a great job with that. The first two times I went I've had the seven course Chef's Surprise meal with the wine parings. This is essentially the Milwaukee Foodie's dream. Imagine your favorite cooking shows (Top Chef, Iron Chef, America's Test Kitchen) and the unique dishes that are prepared by the chefs on a weekly basis. Now multiply that by ten, add the fact that the Head Chef, Sanford D'Amato, was personally chosen by Julia Child to cook for her birthday celebration, and you will only begin to understand how outstanding these plates are. I recently visited the restaurant on 8/21/11 and decided to steer away from the Chef's Surprise meal as I wanted a large portion of an excellent dish, as opposed to a small portion of seven great dishes. Our server was very knowledgeable and was able to describe each dish we asked about in great detail. For starters we were given an amuse-bouche. I can't remember to flavor profile, but it did its intended job - to prime your taste buds. I had the seasonal pumpkin soup as my appetizer, which was very creamy, and the small sunflower seeds were a nice touch. My main course was the fennel dusted beef tenderloin with Yukon puree (essentially very soft mashed potatoes), grilled escarole & parmesan, and truffle vinaigrette. An excellent dish, the fennel was distinct, but not overpowering, and was an interesting complement to the perfectly cooked tenderloin. The escarole had the only the slightest hint of bitterness, which was nice because I was able to combine that with the potatoes and beef with each bite. Dessert...simply masterful. I decided go out on a limb and try something that I normally wouldn't bother ordering, so I tried to cherry clafouti. It's hard to describe because don't recall eating a dish like it - but imagine griddle-cake that is crispy on both sides, but has a cake-like texture with tart cherries baked in. Yeah, it was awesome. I'd like to give a special shout out to whoever made my Tom Collins. They make the cocktails out of view, so they seemingly materialize out of thin air. It was among the best I've ever had (I ask for one everywhere I go). In conclusion, put this on your bucket list of Milwaukee experiences. And get your duckets in order. A dinner for two, including appetizer, dessert, drinks, and tip will probably run in the $180-220 range. The seven course meal with wine pairing for two (including tip), is in the upper $200s. It's worth every penny.
(5)Darleen V.
Amazing food, outstanding service! We went there for a special occasion and had the tasting menu. The servers were helpful and pleasant. You could tell there was care put into the food and it came out as beautiful as it was delicious. The only critique i have is the ambiance is just OK. It's a pretty small place and we were a little weary of speaking too loudly, however that did not interrupt our dining experience.
(5)Sona B.
I had the rare privilege to be honored on the day of my birth with a fantastic dinner at this amazing restaurant. Being that this was such a special occasion, we had the seven course chef's choice with wine pairings. Yes, this meal is probably going to set you back a car payment, but this is one of those meals that you'll be telling everyone about. Note: Chef's choice is not available on weekends. Setting: unassuming neighborhood; they have valet Decor: formal chic; kind of like an overdone dining room Food: Where does one start? every dish was spectacular, from the tuna to the scallops, to the elk, every dish outdid itself. I do, fondly, remember the vast platter of desserts, including the plum tart. Overall, probably one of the most memorable meals of my short lived life. Just go here and thank me later.
(5)Gregg V.
Great meal and service! The tomato basil soup is out of this world....give me a few bowls of this soup and some bread and I would be very happy! I also had the grouper. Perfect! Those two items - $43. Not bad when you take into consideration the quality of the food. We try and get here a few times a year.
(5)William R.
I was in town for business and wanted to try a great Milwaukee restaurant. Sanford was ok, but I wouldn't go back. My wife and I found the food average especially for the cost. We did the chef's "surprise" 7 course tasting with wine pairing, hoping to get the best the chef had to offer. It wasn't much of a surprise though, because each of our courses was on the menu that night. The first course was a breaded rice cube (like risotto) stuffed with veal ragu. It was tasty but very heavy. Each of the courses was very large in proportion, not like tasting menus I've had before, and a fried stuffed rice cube did not set a good start for a long meal. We both were pretty full at course number 2, which might have been fish. Anyway, the food was good, but I wouldn't go back based on the cost ($330 with tip for the two of us). I don't regret the visit, because I was curious. Our server was inconsistent- he didn't really explain the dishes, but when a different server brought one course, she explained every detail, at length, including pointing with her finger, this or that splash of sauce or microgreen. Also, we were seated at a two top very close to our neighbors on both sides.
(3)James S.
Another in a series of endless business trips to Milwaukee found me staying downtown for a change. The idea of eating somewhere new led me to Sanford Restaurant. What a wonderful find. As another reviewer indicated, it's located in a very unpretentious neighborhood and you could just envision the place as the Italian grocery store it started it's life as. The meal was spectacular - Grilled Pear and Roquefort Tart with Caramelized Onions and Walnuts to start things off, followed by a nice salad incorporating apples for the autumn season. Then I was off to the Char-grilled Loin of Elk with Roasted Italian Plums, Pine Nuts and Swiss Chard. Superb in every way. A nice glass of Folk Machine Pinot Noir was the perfect accompaniment to the Elk. Dessert was a cranberry walnut tart with homemade walnut ice cream - truly delicious, but not overly sweet. The staff was very attentive and very willing to discuss the food, the history, or just life in general. This was a lovely treat that exceeded my expectations in every way.
(5)Nina F.
I went to Sanford a few months ago for my boyfriend's birthday and it was just enchanting. I was impressed with how humble the place was despite its high reputation. We had the foie gras to start, as well as the Tuscan lentil soup. Both were absolutely delicious and flavorful. We shared the wild sturgeon entree, and words could not describe how fantastic it was. Our friends had the banana butterscotch toffee tart for dessert, and the bites we tried were amazing yet again. We were also given a small complimentary array of sweets. The flavors in every dish went together so well, and the service was fantastic. I must say, it was more affordable than I thought it would be. For a half bottle of wine, an appetizer, a soup, and an entree, we spent about 100 including tip. Of course we shared some of our courses, but we were plenty full. I highly recommend this place for a special occasion. A bit spendy but honestly worth every penny.
(5)Emily T.
Great experience! Still a little strange they don't offer a corkage fee. Food and service is amazing! Would recommend again and again!
(5)Bill H.
Never disappoints. Service, food, atmosphere all are top shelf
(5)Nicholas G.
This restaurant is amazing. This is by far the best restaurant for foodies in Milwaukee. My fiance and I did the tasting menu with wine pairing and each course was prepared beautifully. The atmospher is great in that it is not a large restaurant. I cannot wait to go back to Sanford for another fabulous dining experience.
(5)Jonathan W.
Of all the things I love in a restaurant being surprised is my favorite. This unorthadox restaurant tucked away in the most underestimated neighborhoods is a real treat. To begin, I wish I was as bold as the couple next to us that had a wine flight (in bottles) for two! Ignore the commercials that is truly living the High Life! For our meal, we began with he onion, pear gorgonzola tart which I have to say was utterly amazing. My wife chose the lobster ravoli & I chose the quail. A creature of habit yes, but the preparation and cherry reduction was unmatched to this date. Only later did I find out the restaurant was the former store for the parents of the Owner / Chef way back when. This is the ideal date restaurant for you & your spouse. The comments on price are well taken as it is expensive but a different experience for those in Milwuakee.
(4)Lauren R.
Expensive, but delicious. Really delicious. Great for anniversary or if the company is paying for your meal!
(5)Bobby G.
Seriously the Michael Jordan of Milwaukee restaurants. Badass technique n execution. Will be great regardless of age.
(5)Jamie S.
First time diner to Sanford this week. Posh interior; a little stuffy, but its that type of place. Amazing food. I simply could not decide on anything, because everything sounded so amazing. I settled on a lobster bisque, tuna appetizer, seared scallop and lobster entree, and the macadamia nut pie for dessert. I was impressed with EVERYTHING...and that doesn't always happen. The food is rich in flavor and presentation. I think the wine I drank may have been bad- it was a chenin blanc, and had a musty odor, but i dont typically drink white, so this may have been the apple and pear in it. The waiter's service left a lot to be desired here, however. He wasn't really engaging or helpful with the menu. I would definitely go back. It was a lovely evening, although a bit quiet and slow for in the restaurant for a Wednesday.
(5)Brian C.
The Chateau Pesquié wine tasting last night just proves that Sanfords remains the top jewel in the Midwest culinary crown.
(5)John G.
This place is magical. Everything was off the charts, including the bill! The thing is, I feel like I got what I paid for. The meal felt special. The food was art and is was a pleasure to eat here. We made reservations for a Saturday night at 8:15pm at 6:30pm that same night. I am guessing people are saving their pennies and not going to places like this as much. It was full when we got there. It is a small place. I didn't count, but from memory there were maybe 20 tables tops, mostly tables for 2 but with the option to push some together for larger groups. Everything was pristine, but not intimidating. Every man in the place was in a suit jacket except for a man with a fancy dragon button down and a guy in a nice sweater. Tracy had the field green salad and I ate most of it. It was a perfect salad. We also got the cheese plate with all local Wisconsin cheeses. They even had 2 cheeses I hadn't tried before from my favorite Wisconsin cheese place, Carr Valley! Tracy's got the Grilled Wild American Sturgeon on Crab Hash, Pancetta Red Onion Vinaigrette. She says "very good." I liked it and I don't like fish. I had the lobster and scallop entree - OH MY WOW - They were the best scallops I have ever eaten, hands down. The lobster was amazing as well and the sauces were divine! I had a Cosmo which was quite delicious! You have to order desserts when you are ordering your meal, presumably so they can prepare it while you eat. Tracy had the Bittersweet "Intentional" Hawaiian Vintage Chocolate Tart with Coffee Ice Cream. She says "very good." I had the Pear tart. I am a sucker for a good pear tart, and this one was fantastic! I can see why this restaurant comes up as the best restaurant in Milwaukee, especially if you lean slightly toward seafood. We just left and I already want to go back .
(5)Cheikh F.
I ate dinner in this restaurant the reception was excellent I ordered a sturgeon it was very tasty and perfectly cooked the presentation was very neat .the server very good and highly attentive .The chef who is the owner provided an excellent description of the food and requested feedback. Highly recommanded.
(5)Grace L.
When we first got here, we were amazed to find that this restaurant is in the middle of a residential neighborhood, surrounded by homes down the entire street. The valet opened the doors for us while coming in and out, so that was a nice touch, that somebody was watching the door and being so welcoming to all who were coming in and out. The dining room, which really, is a small room, fits about 20 tables. The proximity to your fellow diners is fairly close, but not so close that you would be afraid to start knocking down glassware at the table next to you. My first impression of the first people who greeted us were friendly, but I felt very unwelcomed into the room, as if I had just invaded someone's private dinner party. Not to worry though, the waitress was warm and friendly, accommodating and helpful. Unfortunately, we came on a weekend night, so no menu surprise for us. We shared the cheese plate as an appetizer, and of course, the cheese was all local. (we are in Wisconsin, yo) It was a great starter, ranging from a gorgonzola to a sheep milk cheese. For our main courses, we got the elk and duck. The meat of both were perfectly cooked and served at optimum temperature...juicy and melting in your mouth...the sensation that still makes me sigh. The meat was so good that the sides failed to properly support them. The elk came with mustard greens, which my husband found to not fit with the taste or texture of the meat. My duck came with some seasoned rice and wonderfully flavored bok choy. As wonderfully tasting as my sides were, the rice was spiced to the point to where it came close to out salting the duck. For dessert, I had the Hawaiian chocolate tart with coffee ice cream and my husband got the banana-toffee tart with banana-rum ice cream..both were excellent, especially with a cup of Sanford blend coffee. Overall the food was excellent, but the first impression of feeling stuffiness in a limited amount of space is uncomfortable and took awhile to shake off. The staff did a great job in making us comfortable and clearing the table in a timely manner. It was a 4.5, enough for us to have vowed to come back to be surprised by the menu on a weekday night.
(4)John H.
My wife and I have done Sanford's 3 times in ten years. At their price and our income, that may be overreaching some, but that's part of the attraction. This is Broadway, man, not a flick at the local movie house. The entire experience is worth every penny. The food is excellent. The atmosphere is a little arrogant and a little snooty. Not that we're either arrogant or snooty, but it's part of the price, and it's fun. Don't go without an extra 100 bucks or more in your pocket, just in case you find you need to go full out on wine and cocktails while enjoying the fantastic delectables that appear in front of you every so often. Update: my wife says in response, "not snooty. We've been to cheaper places where the service hovers over you the whole time. The service at Sanford's is classy." I have to agree; she's right.
(5)Kyle M.
A phenomenal dining experience. Ralph was a fantastic and extremely knowledgeable server, the food was outstanding, and the ambience and decor was superb. A flawless dining experience, a top-rate restaurant that could hold its own in any city.
(5)Jane K.
i have always said that this restaurant is the best deal in the nation BY FAR on a food to price ratio. i have eaten amazing meals all over the country and for some reason sanford holds a special pleace in my heart. and my wallet! i'm not giving it 4 dollar signs because you can actually get out of sanford for reasonable money if you have willpower. i do not however so it is often pricey -- but find this meal in new york and pay 3 times as much. they always have a $49 tasting menu from which to choose and you can't get out of the cheesecake factory for less than that. sandy d'amato is an amazing chef and has been cooking nouvelle inspired cuisine in milwaukee for 20 years. milwaukee has been privileged to have this james beard award winning chef at our fingertips all these years. Now he begun passing the reigns to justin aprahamian -- an equally brilliant move. Justin has taken sanford's vision and moved it to the next level. the food strikes a fine balance between classic and progressive. the service is top notch and the atmosphere is not snobby at all. you cannot go wrong with anything you order so i won't even pick out dishes and review them. everyone should go at least once in their life.
(5)ning j.
The food and service are excellent! The service is definitely above what you pay for. The atmosphere is a little stuffy yes, but not overly snobby. I had the halibut with risotto and snap peas. What a tasty and fulfilling dish! The halibut was very tender, yums....They also gave everyone some weird appetizer (red wine with wasabi or something or the other!) and a small trio sampler dessert plate (cookies) on the house which was a very nice gesture and totally unexpected. I would only deduct half a star as the server was slow at picking up the check but that's about it!
(5)Victoria W.
For our anniversary this year we decided to splurge on dinner at Sanford. We had very high expectations after hearing glowing reviews from friends, so we thought it would be worth the effort. What started as a five-star dining experience turned into a 1-star disappointment due to a snafu with the entrees. But some stellar customer service from the front-of-the-house staff turned things around in the end. Excellent customer service seems like a very rare occurrence nowadays, but I am happy to report Sanford tries very hard to deliver on its promise of perfection. We will definitely return and we hope to brings some additional friends from Chicago next time. I'm confident my next review will include a fifth star!
(4)Brian C.
Sanford over-delivers. It is the big fish in the small pond, but it would thrive in any size pond, and vie for best in city in any American city. Yes, you read that right. As good as this place is, they do not go out of their way to tout it to the world, though the list of awards is quite extensive. They take nothing for granted. When one considers the price of the experience at Sanford, the value is beyond comparison. (Zagat rates Sanford 2 points higher than Tru and Charlie Trotter's, if you can believe that, and this place costs about half of either of them, if that.) Items were most original and creative. The wine was very reasonably priced, also, and the sommelier still goes out of his way to help pick the winning $30 bottle. It is nice that they do not try to gouge patrons on the wine like so many other upscale establishments. Service was impeccable throughout. We took my grandfather there for his 90th birthday, and it was an evening that none of us will ever forget.
(5)David B.
This is by far my favorite restaurant in Milwaukee (and most of the country actually). The service is impeccable and well paced. Your server will always be more than happy to explain any ingredients or preparations with which you are unfamiliar. The sommelier is patient and knowledgeable, so they also make another excellent resource. I usually plan my visit to occur on a weeknight so I can enjoy the chef's choice menu. Sandy's choices are always engaging and intriguing, but also well paced and cumulative, so you never feel gorged by the time you finish your meal. The wine pairings are an absolute must to fully appreciate the experience. Be prepared to venture into ingredients and preparations you may not be accustomed to from other restaurants in Milwaukee. Don't be scared - be glad you're in such good hands. (Please ignore Deepa's review. You can't give a very fine restaurant 2 stars because you prefer tofu burgers to more creative fare.)
(5)Jamie B.
Exquisite. Impeccable service, incredible food and a wonderful overall meal experience. The carnivoires were happy, and the lone vegetarian with her chef-created special was delighted that it wasn't just a random plate of roasted veggies, as the accomodation tends to be. One of my favorite places in Milwaukee.
(5)Amanda M.
We went for my husband's birthday. This was our third visit. We decided to let the chef do all the work for us and ordered the seven course surprise tasting menu. We also had the wine pairings. The only disappointment was the 2nd to last course which was some kind of sorbet in currant sauce. The fish courses were great and I loved the goat cheese tart with ramp. Great place for a special occasion. You will feel well taken care of and enjoy some very fine food in one of Milwaukee's best restaurants.
(5)Mike L.
My wife and I ate here for our anniversary last fall. The restaurant is nestled in a residential neighborhood on the lower east side. They have valet parking, so don't let parking fears be a barrier to entry. The meal was quite an event! The courses are served slowly and deliberately (I believe we were there over two hours), giving time for proper digestion and enjoyment. All courses were crafted with care and with the freshest ingredients. All of the dishes were orignals and chef-created. The atmosphere was cozy yet refined and the food flavor was excellent. The wait staff is certainly among the best in Milwaukee. They made a special pastry and fruit desert for us, very nice touch. I doubt that we will wait until our next anniversary to return!
(5)David G.
If you can afford it, you need to go here, no excuses. You will be treated like a king. I have never had service like this before. Not to mention the food was fit for a king. I can't say more, just go!
(5)D J.
There are times in my life when I wish I weren't vegetarian, dinner at Sanford was certainly one of those occasions. If my gourmand carnivore dinner companions saw this rating, they'd probably hit the roof but sadly I couldn't quite share their euphoria over the fare here. For my part though, I was besotted by the fancy four course menu and as many changes of silverware more than the food itself. Started out with a palate cleansing beet tartar, followed by an incredibly good grilled pear tart and parsnip and mushroom soup. The chef's creation for me was a Asian inspired vegetable platter seasoned with Thai sauce, which was better to admire visually than savor! Closed out the night with some delicious chocolate espresso cake topped with vanilla ice cream. Being that I have a predilection for nice and normal over exotic and expensive (strictly for food!), Sanford wouldn't rank among my top picks, but for a great dining "experience" in an intimate setting, it's certainly appealing
(2)Chris C.
This is definitely a splurge restaurant but well worth a special occasion. If you think you need to be in Chicago to get world-class food, think again. It gets higher Zagat ratings than almost all Chicago restaurants, is more affordable than the pricey Chicago fare, and is much more accessible than downtown Chicago. The ambiance is conservative - it's clear that the focus is on the food and service. Of course, that's what you come here to experience. The wine list is impeccable, the food diverse and challenging, and the service will be what you want it to be: suggestive, engaging, and helpful or courteous and polite and respectful of your experience. The owners also run the wonderful Coquette Cafe and Harlequin Bakery in the Third Ward. In 1989, they transformed a family grocery store in Sanford's location to the dining room it is today. An example selection from their seasonal menu: 1) Provincial Socca Tart with Lamb Ragout and Red Wine Vinaigrette 2) Celery Root Soup with Hen of the Woods Mushrooms and Truffled Brown Butter 3) Spice Dusted King Salmon with Boniato, Chayote and Tomatillo Clam Broth 4) Cranberry and Walnut Tart with Vanilla Ice Cream You can also order a 7-course "menu surprise" with or without wine pairings. Not inexpensive, but well worth it. Closed on Sundays.
(5)peter k.
Absolutely fantastic. We went to Sanford for our anniversary dinner - our high expectations were exceeded. Service was far and away the best I've received anywhere in the city. The waitstaff was as knowledgable as you'd expect them to be at a place like Sanford, and super attentive. Everything we tried was just absolutely perfect. We are already counting down the days to our next anniversary - our excuse to go back.
(5)Jorge G.
Very disappointed - after reading the reviews, I chose Sanford to take a friend and his wife out when I was recently in Milwaukee for business. The service was very slow and inattentive, despite fact that restaurant was not very busy. Long, unexplained wait for drinks, starters and entrees. The menu had some interesting combinations/ideas but the food - which I was really looking forward to - was not great. Warm, but not hot, meal. Duck that was fine but nothing special. The dessert, a cherry tart, was pretty food but too little, too late. Great company so we enjoyed but not worth the price and, as I discovered during rest of my trip, Milwaukee does have some great restaurants and I regret not taking them elsewhere.
(2)Colonel T.
really, as yelp says when I click 5 stars, "as good as it gets". I live in Chicago (but She's in mke...oops), and have eaten at most places worth comparing in this fine city. The fact is, Sanford belongs in the highest ranks of any place I've been, in chicago, nyc, where I grew up, and where-all else. I've been here twice, ordered a la carte once in a big group and then once for a birthday/date type night. The reviews that say you have to be prepared for all kinds of new things are misleading. If you order the tasting menu (a steal! same price as north pond in chicago, on the quality level closer to l20, i think) clearly you don't know exactly what's coming and so you can't be extremely picky. I can't speak for vegetarians, luckily, but for everyone else it's honestly not _that_ challenging to the palate-- inventive, to be sure, but not really a huge stretch for anyone who likes just...eating. The food is incredible and the place is kind of sweet. Though the economy aspect of a meal like this is certainly secondary, try finding a restaurant with 10 tables in chicago or anywhere else where you can get the tasting menu and (generous) wine pairings for less than 130 per person and you'll appreciate sanford even more. two cons: -When i was there for a birthday, they didn't do anything about it despite me confirming on the phone a few times that it was a birthday - the website is old-fashioned. or, let's just say, it's bad. it looks probably as old as the restaurant (21 years old, I think). you could certainly pay some recent college grads who stumbled onto flash a tiny amount of money to evolve out of the Netscape age... but then again who cares!? we know about it, and that's what counts. This is really one of those places that needs a sixth star you could put money on.
(5)Joe G.
I had one of the top five best meals of my life at Sanford last Friday night. I had the Surprise Tasting Menu, and every dish shined. It was a seven-course affair (plus amuse bouche and baked goodies with the bill) -- three seafood (escolar, tuna, scallop), two meat (one lamb, one duck), and two dessert (cherry soup with sorbet, walnut tart). I'm looking forward to seeing what they come up with next time I'm in town (and can afford such a special meal).
(5)Pam L.
It is spring - and I just ate a fantabulous morel risotto. It was so yummy I pleaded with them to let me return for more tomorrow for lunch but they said I would be the only one there at noon. The service is always wonderful - attentive without hovering. I always try to visit in the spring because they do marvelous dishes with morels, ramps and asparagus. I had all three in various dishes and all were wonderful. Have I gushed enough??? This restaurant is my favorite in Milwaukee - even if it is on the pricey side.
(5)Gfiddy F.
Still the best.
(5)Michael Y.
If you are in Wisonsin and looking for an outstanding restaurant, as opposed to an "outstanding for Wisconsin" restaurant, Sanford might be alone. I actually met Sanford both times I was there, as he greeted each of his guests. I do not remember the dinner the first time- other than with fond memories (and a fiddlehead and ramp salad- must've been Spring). The second time I was there, I had a sous vide pork that was took on an enormous amount of flavor (this being said even though I am not a complete convert to sous vide cookery). The squash soup in a hollowed out squash rind was perfect for the wintry day. Fortunately or not- I do not get to Wisconsin very often. Whenever I do, however, Sanford is a stop I feel I have to make.
(5)Elizabeth A.
This place is consistently amazing. They frequently change up their menus to keep up with the seasons and offer incredible service. When you dine at Sanford's you always get a wonderful experience.
(5)Y G.
I can't believe I haven't written a review for Sanford! First off, this is my favorite restaurant, hands down. I don't even live in Milwaukee! I drive one hour from Chicago just to eat here. It is absolutely amazing food with a very romantic intimate atmosphere and great service. I have never been disappointed and I consider Milwaukee to be so lucky to have Sanford! Its location may not be the most upscale, to be honest...I thought my bf was going to take me to an alley to kill me or something when we first came here. Don't let that stop you from going here! They have valet parking, but really, there is no need. Once you step inside the restaurant you are transported to an elegant place that you probably didn't know existed in the area. I'm sad not to be able to do the tasting since they only offer it on the weekdays (maybe one day!!). I can't tell you how beautiful each dish is. If you are a true foodie, you would really appreciate the food here. Even if you aren't, you would still love it. I have yet to find a restaurant this good in Chicago, but we are looking! While dining out in Chicago this past weekend, we overheard our waiter talk about how this is David Burke's favorite restaurant. I'm not sure what else to say besides book your reservations early, put on your Sunday best, and enjoy the best meal of your life! ps. try the Vodka flight!
(5)Andy G.
I am so fortunate to have had the experience of dining at this bastion of culinary excellence. The attention to detail is mindboggling. Every appetiser, entree, and desert is its own unique stunningly beautiful creation. The lamb was the best I have ever had. My Dad had the lamb as well and he agreed. The main course presentation was unlike anything I have ever seen. The diner plates arrive at the table covered with a silver dome that looks like it cost about five hundred dollars. A server stands next to each person at the table and the domes are lifted at the same time. It may be one of the most expensive diners you ever have, but it will be worth every penny.
(5)Cardinal S.
Wow. If I could give it 6 stars, I would! We ordered the 7-course surprise meal. We started with a light, beet amuse bouche. The first course was prosciutto with fennel and an exotic, nutty mushroom. I think this was my favorite, although it's a hard call because each course was wonderful. The second course was a scallop and pork belly dish. Third was a fried mackerel. Fourth was quail with black bean paste. Fifth was veal with parmesan mashed potatoes. Sixth was a palate cleanser with a small scoop of coconut ice cream. Last was a delicious (and massive!) chocolate mousse in a cookie crust with a crisp caramel thin cookie on top, paired with a hazelnut steamed drink poured on top of a small scoop of ice cream. I'm sure my descriptions are doing the courses an injustice by not capturing all the flavors and ingredients that made them so good. I also greatly enjoyed the red lychee tea that I ordered. We think the price (~$80) is an excellent value for this caliber of dining!
(5)Balki B.
Since reading about Sanford and all the awards and top list it's featured on, I went in expecting the best. I got that and more. The service was near flawless. The location was a little odd, but once you sat down and the experience began, you felt a world away from it all. It was 2 of the best hours of dining I've had. As an appetizer, every bite of the Seared Ahi had perfect creamy texture that just melted in your mouth, and the cilantro dressing added so much intense flavor but somehow managed to not overpower the delicate flavor of the fish. The Parmesan broth soup I had next impressed me with its layers of flavors, but the soup my girlfriend got with Sam's menu was probably the best soup I have ever tasted. When we got to our main course, we were left speechless as both the Halibut I had and Salmon she had really put us in a different level of consciousness. We managed to overcome our primal nature at that time and share a few bites of each others. The desert menu was very impressive, and the Macadamia nut tart i had was wonderful with fresh brewed coffee. I felt for the price and quality of food you get in return, Sanford can not be matched anywhere. The nuances in the dishes will linger for days in your mind. I look forward to trying the seven course menu on my next return.
(5)