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Contributor

Joined 10 years ago

Kansas-based restaurant started in 1972 entices 30-somethings and families with a flashy menu, inventive drinks and chic, but accessible, decor.. In Short
Considered a founding father of American casual dining, Houlihan's transformed its once-kitschy decor and meat-and-potatoes menu into a contemporary restaurant serving eclectic cuisine. Geared toward a slightly more upscale crowd, warmer colors and modern art adorn the walls, while Indie rock tunes and a patio leading to a walk-around bar remind you that you're not in Kansas anymore. The globetrotting menu juxtaposes classic burgers and wings with innovative selections like tuna wontons and herb-cheese stuffed mushrooms.

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alherron

Joined 7 years ago

Pleasant surprise. We went during off hours and were seated promptly. The menu was fantastic! It was hard deciding what to eat. I had the chicken parmesan and my boyfriend had the ribs. Everything was amazing. Kevin is a caesar salad fanatic and very picky about the dressing. He said there were no anchovies in the dressing (which is usually a turn-off for him) but he still said it was one of the best he'd ever had. The best was the dessert and drink offer. The desserts are tiny and only about $2 or you can "bundle" and get 3 or 5 samples. If you order dessert you can add coffee and any liquor (Bailey's, Kahlua, Godiva, etc) for only $1.99. It was a great deal and a genius business move. We had no intention of getting dessert or drinks but got both and loved every minute of it. The location at Union Station is a lot of fun with the koi pond outside and the mall right next door. Great value, a menu even I can't get bored with and a great playlist on the radio. Definately a must-visit!

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mistressofthedorkness

Joined 7 years ago

Consistently good food and service. Conveniently located.. I love the mall where the restaurant is located. It's a favorite place to go when i'm out shopping with lots of great stores, or on the way home from the airport when I don't feel like cooking. I've always had prompt seating at this location, usually with a party of 2 or 3 (I think larger parties might have a hard time here), and typically get the booth which i request. The children's menu is populated with my toddler's favorites. The servers have always brought out his carrot appetizer right after ordering to keep him happy (and they usually whisper about the ice cream that comes with to double-check if he can have it. their discretion is appreciated ;) ). The restaurant is hip without being over the top about it. I miss the old appetizer sampler, but, the new one is still quite good. Since trying to work more seafood and less fried foods into my diet, I've fallen in love with the Ahi Tuna Salad. The dressing is light and slightly sweet and tangy. The tuna just MELTS in your mouth, and the bananas add a great flavour. There is a fantastic selection of drinks and I like the sampling sizes (eg, 3 mini martinis or 3 mini guinesses?), as well as the sample deserts. It's great to try more things. Burgers are good. If you get any potatos or roast, be sure to ask for 2 cups of the marsala gravy because it is AWESOME!