Dinner at John O'Groats isn't best of show - Our rating: 1 1/2 ...

John O'Groats Grille and Pub recently opened along Ventura Boulevard in Encino. First impressions and the whole package , do count when opening a restaurant.

[Richard]

Its really a breakfast place... I would never have dinner there.

[Cathy Bejoy]

I'm sorry to read your very negative perception of this new neighborhood gem. I've been to the new location an loved both the food and friendly atmosphere. Agreed, the place is new, but give them a chance to work out some kinks before you blast them. JOG's has been an institution over the hill for many years, and Im sure the same quality and experience will be evident in the near future as the restaurant gets it's footing. JOGs was even recently named in Esquire magazine as a top dining spot. The quality is long term, so be a bit more patient, okay?

[UclaMartha]

Where did you dine? my experience could not have been more opposite to the comments here. The food was fantastic, the management was professional and friendly, and i have heard only similar comments from people i trust. Sounds like this reviewer went too soon, or went somewhere else entirely.

[Yeppy]

Are you for real? I have eaten at both locations and the food has always been terrific, as well as the friendly staff. They are famous for the Fish & Chips, funny how you don't mention how great they are. You owe JOG a return visit.

[dinnerhead]

best burger in town. love this place. dream about the fish and chips. try for yourself. this Daily News review is wacked. way wrong, as usual.

[Midge Cragin]

Most professional food critics try a restaurant more than once before they write a review. This only seems fair. Give it another chance as most people seem to disagree with you. I have been there and loved every thing I ate. Staff was very professional and helpful.

[Marbobranch]

Most professional food critics review a restaurant more than once before they write about it. Maybe you should have done this as most people disagree with you. I have eaten there and thoroughly enjoyed everything. The staff was professional and very helpful. Do your job the correct way.

[Duf]

Did you even GO the original location to get an essence of the place, or to see why it's been successful 20+ years? Do your research, it looks like you were just bent on writing a crap review today.

[LillysMama]

Your review sounds like you have a chip on your shoulder or at very least you were having a bad day. Even your few compliments are backhanded - you were displeased the edges of some of your fries were overdone? You couldn't ASK for the butter you wanted on your rice? Or jelly for your biscuits? Come on!

I've eaten at the original John O'Groats on Pico for years and the one time I asked to have a side dish replaced, they took care of it promptly and cheerfully. That's the thing about John O'Groats-- in addition to consistently great food, the owners and staff there are always so cheerful, nice and accommodating.

When I heard they were opening a location in Encino, I couldn't wait. I ate there the first weekend they were open and the food and the service were great.

[A big fan]

I've eaten at the Los Angeles restaurant for years -- and the Encino restaurant carries on the same traditions. I was very sorry to read this review -- as I have nothing but raves about the new Encino addition. More than just great food, but, a unique dining experience. The comment about the decor is what is most appealing about the restaurant. Try it -- and you won't be disappointed. You'll probably become a fan -- and revisit it often.

[Elisa Goodman]

I was actually having breakfast at John O'Groats on the Westside when Mrs. Jacoby handed me your surprising mean-spirited review! I read it out loud to my husband and our friend at the table and we were mortified! It was so blatantly spiteful! We just couldn't imagine how Paul Tyler's chefs could get it all wrong....? If you had things you wanted them to improve on -- you should have sent Paul a note or pulled him off to the side -- and then come back in a couple of weeks to see if you had a different experience before you slammed them. He is one of the most friendly, thoughtful, affable, accommodating restaurant owners around - and so hands on with his staff. He doesn't deserve that attitude. He never serves up any! They bend over backwards to please their customers. However, I'm just SO glad you liked the Mac & Cheese. Thank God they did something right for you-- because I just wouldn't know one Aioli from another!
BTW: I hear Nate 'N Als may be opening a new Deli in the Valley --I hope you don't go in there on the first week they open and tell them that their Famous SPECIAL Hotdogs don't hold up....Larry King just might come after you....