Tuscan Grill

Last evening we took two friends down to Carolina Beach to check out a few options. First, we tried Tangerine Caribbean Grill. Having read all the wonderful reviews, we were certainly in for a nice treat. Checking in, we were told there would be a 20 minute wait. No problem. We warmed up the to bar and ordered $2 Longboard beers. Not a bad price for a Saturday night. The atmosphere is super cute. It looks and feels like a Caribbean place. We were seated outside on the deck that overlooks to harbor. The deck even has a pool table. How cool is that? Anyway, as we sat there for about 10 minutes without any server coming to us, I glanced over at the manager was talking to the table next to us. The 2 couples looked miserable. I asked how long they have been sitting there....45 minutes! Ouch. We figured we better try this place on a different night.

Anyway, we called Tuscan Grill which sits down the road on the main strip. The owner told us there was no wait and we could sit outside. We hurried down and were indeed quickly ushered to a lovely patio. The server was awesome. He was so attentive and down to earth. When we looked at the prices we were worried we were out of our element. But the server really made us feel welcomed telling us he lobbied hard to get the owners to offer $1.50 PBRs!

We ordered a starter of artichoke dip. This was a huge order - I was glad there were four of us. The dip was tasty and well prepared. I like mine a little more zingy, but this was definitely good. We ordered halibut with asparagus and a spinach salad. The halibut was very well prepared with a lovely creamy sauce. The serving size was quite large. Lynn and I split the order. The side of pasta with alfredo sauce was huge! Oh goodness, it hit the spot.

In all, the dining experience was great. The only complaint was the price. Our bill came to around $48 for 2. That included a starter, one entree, and a starter salad. But the taste, the atmosphere, and the service made up for the sticker shock! We will definitely be back.

Lynn says...  I thought it was a wonderful experience. As soon as we walked in the door we were asked if we were the party of four that had just called and were quickly whisked off to the back patio. The atmosphere was simple elegance with just the perfect lighting for an evening dinner. I agree with Jayson our waiter was very friendly and attentive throughout the meal. The Baked Spinach and Artichoke Dip - $9.95 that was served with ciabatta toast points was unique. I found it to be very tasty and enjoyed the subtle flavor of pine nuts that were blended it. It added a little bit of extra crunch that mixed well with the creaminess of the dip and ciabatta toast. The Fresh Halibut Oscar style (crab and Bernaise sauce with asparagus spears) and served with one side choice - $23.95 was fantastic - light and flaky. As a side we choose the pasta with alfredo sauce. I am not usually a fan of alfredo sauce but appreciated the delicate dressing of sauce they coated the pasta noodles in. The Tuscan Greens - $6.45 had fresh baby spinach, toasted pine nuts, goat cheese, roasted red peppers, and was finished with a balsamic raspberry vinaigrette. It was very flavorful and all of the different textures and tastes went very well together. Overall I really enjoyed this meal, the staff, atmosphere. I would definitely recommend this restaurant for a casual night out with friends or a romantic dinner with your partner. Don't forget to take a walk on the boardwalk and a stroll on the beach after the meal.