SoNapa, Maitland - Closed

I had lunch at this American restaurant that seeks to combine the "attributes" of Sonoma and Napa on Wednesday. It is across from Antonio's on South Orlando Avenue. I had a grouper sandwich special that came with crinkle cut fries for $12. It was ok. The fish was thin for grouper (maybe tail pieces) and it was overseasoned. The seasoning wasn't bad. Just not subtle. The portion was kind of small as well. The fries were fine. The menu is pretty limited. Salads and flatbreads (yuck) make up half of the menu. Dull. The rest of the menu is seafood and farm animals with one pasta course. Appetizers tip toe around the $10 mark. Entrees start at $9 for a chicken sandwich and rise to $29 for steak. The median is $15. A burger even costs near $10. I think it is all a little overpriced for a place that feels more chain-like than high end. It's a new building. So, the ambiance seems artificial. It has low ceilings and the interior decorating seems formulaic. They have some (4) faux fireplaces made of tiled stone. There is: a private room, a patio, a main dining room and a lounge area. It seats about 80. It has a semi-North California feel. More yuppy Western. It was well staffed. They are in uniforms. The service was ok. Although, they did forget to offer me bread like they did for the other tables. The place isn't bad. It's just not my cup of tea. I've experienced real restauranteering from these locales and this is just a facsimile. None of the dishes would make me want to go back. Why I chose a special. And that was more to see if they are really serving grouper because the news has recently had reports that many restaurants are substituting. If you need a introduction to this "lifestyle" and can't afford the real thing then I guess this place will serve a purpose (like Brio serves as a stand in for Italy). Unfortunately, the most authentic thing about them is the prices. The wine selection is also small and disappointing. All they have are bottles you can get at any supermarket. Go on a lark.