Ocean Prime Orlando, Sandlake

On Saturday I had dinner at this New American restaurant on Sandlake. The prices were steep and I had a sneaking suspicion that they couldn't deliver at that level. Therefore, I ordered 2 appetizers. I actually tried for the chicken at $24 but they were out of it (I wonder if it's because it's the only reasonably priced thing on the menu?). I had the French Onion Soup for $8 and the Surf and Turf for $16. The soup was ok. The broth was fine. The cheese was flavorless (ie cheap) and not browned enough on top. The Surf and Turf was braised short ribs (a little gamey) on top of scallops (2). They were large but fishy (not fresh) and one was laced with sand or shell or grit of some kind. The service was great. They gave you a whole loaf of sour dough bread that looked great. The decor is very nice but it lacks personality. They have a private (as private as glass can be) dining room, a large bar and an outdoor seating area. The place is fine but not fine dining. It's like Fran Drescher at a black tie affair. You can dress her up and she can look good and say the right things but you still know she doesn't pass the test. Plus these prices are an insult when you have to sit next a bunch of jack asses in shorts and a tee shirt. Either lose your pretense or enforce it. I have a feeling that people try for a table at J. Alexander's next door (1/2 the price) but can't wait 40 minutes for a table so they suck it up and go to Prime so their fat wife and screaming kids will stop complaining. Interestingly, Prime was about half full (60 tables) and Alexander's was totally full. But, Prime is 2X as much so they probably earn equal amounts. Funny how the economics play out. I would reservedly recommend this place. It's like Salt Island or Capital Grille - expense account dining for hicks who think Ruth's Chris is as good as it gets. I was told it's run by a man from Ohio. Make of that what you will.