I had lunch with my best girlfriends this past week and at the recommendation of one, we ate at Gregory's in downtown Plano. My friend who had been there before went one evening with her husband for their anniversary. She had given me a full report about the food and lovely atmosphere and the pretty rooftop patio they have! So we gals had to try Gregory's out!

We got there right as they opened at 11 and were seated by the front window. Our waiter couldn't have been better. He explained the dishes, told us about the specials, even told us about their upcoming wine-tasting and signed us up for an email newsletter! We learned that "Gregory" is Gregory  Moreaux, formerly at lll Forks and Silver Fox and has 16 years in the business of fine dining.

Two of us ordered the Penne Pasta with Shrimp, although they both requested that chicken be substituted. Spinach and feta cheese were added in and it was tossed in a basil butter sauce. They both raved about it and the serving size was very ample. The third at our table went with the waiter's suggestion - Crab & Shitake Mushroom Cakes with Asparagus Risotto. It looked terrific and she concurred that it was. It consisted of two beautifully browned cakes with a serving of the risotto and a side of salad greens. My choice was the Grilled Salmon - a nice piece, perfectly grilled and seated upon a dollop of an olive tapenade and drizzled with basil butter. A side of spinach salad with a mustard, honey vinaigrette made a nice accompaniment.

Crab & Shitake Mushroom Cakes

Grilled Salmon with Olive Tapenade

After we finished our meals, our waiter tried to tempt us with several desserts that sounded to die for but we all declined....diets....yeah, right   Maybe next time we'll make room for something.

He also asked if we'd like to see the rooftop patio and the dining area and bar upstairs. Well, of course we would! We followed him up to the second floor where Gregory's has a small, pretty bar area and another small dining area. While we were there, they were serving a party of about a dozen people who all appeared to be having a good time, like us.

We were also taken outside to the rooftop patio - a pretty little area that had 4-5 tables and overlooks 15th Street. I'm sure it's very picturesque once the sun goes down and they do have mister fans around. I would think in the spring or fall, the patio would be a really popular spot.

Prices at lunchtime  are not too bad. My salmon dish with an ice tea was $13.95. Dinner prices seem about double.  Lunch Monday thru Sat 11:00am to 2pm. Dinner from 5pm till closing. They have drink specials daily with Happy Hour from 5pm-7pm.

Gregory's
1022 E. 15th Street, Plano, TX 75074
Phone: 972-578-4734

http://www.gregorysrestaurant.net/