Suffering at Shillings On The Square

A 30 year old establishment on the historic Marietta Square, Shillings On The Square offers brunch, a “street side grill,” group dining and an upper level.  Dining late on a Friday evening (9 pm), my husband and I were looking forward to a romantic atmosphere with a worthy level of comfort.  Expecting entrees would be a little more expensive, than an average dine in restaurant, I was not surprised by the $20 – $30 entrees offered; however I was surprised by the conservative menu.

Upscale, gourmet plates was what I expected; however, typical, unexciting choices are offered.  No descriptive mouth-watering temptations, no elegant sauces, no distinctive chef specials, nothing impressive.  Reluctantly, I opted for the petite filet (4 oz) and crab stuffed shrimp.  Very thin for a filet, it was appropriately cooked to my specification; however, it lacked any special flavor.  The four crab stuffed shrimp were tasty and a good companion to the steak, but lacked luxuriousness.  My husband’s lobster served with the filet was rather large and cooked very well.  For such an average, bland tasting meal, I felt it was a bit overpriced, even for Marietta Square standards.

Being in such a historic location, Shillings On The Square does exemplify the beauty of the area. With a beautiful hardwood bar and creaking hardwood floors, patrons automatically feel the authentic ambiance.  Why didn’t our hostess offer us the upstairs dining area?  Supposedly a “casually elegant candlelit” atmosphere awaits in the upper level dining “option.”  Advertised on the printed receipt, “a live piano” plays upstairs Wednesday thru Saturday evenings, however, we did not hear one while dining downstairs.  The downstairs “street side grill” was very cramped and uncomfortable, despite being sparsely occupied.

Our entrees took over 40 minutes to reach our table.  Our server was friendly and apologetic, but the kitchen was desperately slow.  Menus vary from the “street side grill” to the “upper-level” dining room (which our hostess never offered to seat us).  A brunch menu is offered for Sundays (10:30 am – 2 pm).  Group reservations can be made and special occasion private parties can be arranged.  Reservations are accepted.

Disappointed and most likely will not return, Shillings On The Square has become a stagnant landmark in Marietta, complacency shows in their food.

Shillings On The Square

19 North Park Square

Marietta, GA. 30060

770-428-9530

http://shillingsonthesquare.net/

Hours: Sun-Thurs 10 AM – 12 AM;  Fri-Sat 10 AM – 1 AM; Brunch Sat & Sun 10 AM – 2 PM

Live Piano Music Wednesday – Saturday