Post #135996 by Tiki-bot on Mon, Jan 17, 2005 1:55 PM

I have to say I agree with almost everything he said, except his "kitsch" and "quirky" comments. He obviously pines for the old Stars, but then so do I. I had 2 or 3 of the greatest meals I've ever had there.

Cyn is right, there's a lot of dining competition in SF, and for the money, there are dozens of restaurants with much better food. I agree it's all too bland and too salty in general. He was right-on about the poor service and variable drink quality. I've never been there when the waitstaff was observant or attendant - I always have to flag someone down to get anything.

I'm no restaurant snob, but if you want truely stellar food and service, spend the same (or less) money at Boulevard or Chez Panisse or Firefly. This doesn't mean I don't enjoy the experience of visiting Vic's. It's just fine for a drink in a cool tiki-ish atmosphere. I much prefer the "vibe" at the E-ville location, though. The darker, less-cavernous rooms work much better to transport the patron to another time and place, without the stuffiness of the Civic Center crowd. Plus you get the harbor/bay view.