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Highlands Today

Good Experience

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Janet Lynch

Published: November 12, 2007

My husband, Joe, would soon be having his 78th birthday. I was planning a celebration. Friends asked: "Is this a special one?" "Aren't they all" I giggled.

Joe and I have always relaxed and enjoyed the ambiance of Sunset Grill. The location on Lake Jackson is serene and naturally beautiful. Inside, its warm and cozy atmosphere makes it comfortable and inviting. It also serves creative and delicious food.

I stopped to speak with Joanie, who is a vital part of this family-run business. She welcomed me and served a cold beverage as we sat in the "wine cellar," a room tucked away from the bar. Joanie listened as I talked, describing the kind of get-together I visualized. She was soon asking questions and taking notes. Then she called her sister, Jackie, the creative chef from the kitchen. The three of us continued to plan our party. Jackie offered many selections and options. "Would you like me to bake my fantastic birthday cake for you? It would be my pleasure." An hour later, I left with a feeling of accomplishment. Jackie and Joanie reminded me to return one week before the event to finalize our plans and the count with Robert, Jackie's husband, and the owner of Sunset Grill.

Weeks later, Robert, a warm, friendly and refined gentleman, met with me. We reviewed our plans, the food, beverages, a buffet of appetizers, the seating arrangements and, of course, the cake. Everything was in place. Robert added: "You and your guests will celebrate in our private room, the wine cellar. There you can enjoy your privacy and space with your guests, and not be concerned with rushing."

I was thrilled with our evening at Sunset Grill. Robert, Joanie and our diligent waitress, Angela, visited and served with ease. The variety of appetizers was so much more than I had expected. We laughed and celebrated as we happily dined for hours. Angela, our vivacious server, was poised, enthusiastic and added her positive spirit to the occasion. Throughout the evening, soft, flowing music of the '40s played as we enjoyed the creative tastes of the grill. And then there was this marvelous, exquisite cake.

At the end of the evening, I thanked Robert and his professional staff for all their efforts and attention to detail. The excellent, beautifully prepared and served food was a delicious blend of savory tastes, creative cuisine and delightful people.

Janet Lynch
Sebring

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