I have been to Emile's many times growing up with my parents. This has always been a special occassion place for all of our family celebrations. The old owner, Chef Emile always came to visit our table and made a fuss over us kids. I always loved the Mimosa Salad, the French Onion Soup, and of course the Grand Marnier Souffle. We always hated the mean hostess. Our father use to call her Old Ironsides. I just graduated SJSU and since living on my own couldn't afford Emile's. However, since San Jose did that Dining promotion, my friends and I were able to make a reservation and enjoy Emile's for a 30.00 pre fix menu. The food was awesome, the price was right, but the best part was being taken care of by the new owner Alexandra & her family. As soon as we entered we were greeted by a very friendly and bubbly hostess. We loved our server Michael who was a little slow, but very charming. After dinner Alexandra offered to take us on a field trip (as she called it ) throughout the restaurant. We even got to explore the kitchen and go behind where the chef cooks. We were surprised to see a young girl preparing a dessert plate. Alexandra informed us that it was her daughter training to be a chef! I never knew how big Emile's was. There are banquet rooms and a teaching kitchen. We even got to peek upstairs into the offices and the rooftop deck ! When we got back to our table, our server Michel presented us with the check and Alexandra introduced him......he was her husband. Upon leaving we found out the hostess was Alexandra's other daughter. We were treated like royalty! I totally reccommend Emile's to anyone that wants an awesome meal, friendly and warm service in an elegant atmosphere. Now that I know I can afford to eat there, Emile's will be my new ""grown-up"" hangout.
Pros: Charming Family Run Downtown Legend
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