Not the greatest experience I have ever had a a restaurant. Today was our first time visiting Mark's and we didn't really know their procedure. We walked up to the hostess stand, I gave them our name and party of two and she just handed us a number and went onto the next person in line behind us. Not really knowing what to do with the number, we walked into the bar and ordered a couple of beers. When the beer came, we had to ask the bartender what we were supposed to do with the number and he explained the system to us. The bartender provided good service.



We were at the bar for about 8-10 minutes waiting for our table and noticed another party of two who came in after us were given a table before us, which bothered us a little bit.



When we got to the table, our server, Jodi, didn't offer us any drinks. She automatically filled our glasses with water and left us to look at the menu. When we were ready to order she took my wife's order and asked if she wanted a salad and what type of potato, but when I ordered, she didn't ask me about either. I would have ordered a salad had it been offered. We also would have ordered an appetizer but that was never offered, and she again failed to offer drinks, so we were stuck with just our water.



When the food came out, she set the plates in front of us, then said "wait, looks like they put the wrong ticket up" presumably meaning the cooks in the kitchen and then picked up the food she had set in front of us, took it to the next table over and set it in front of them. Then she realized it WAS our food after all and picked it back up and put it in front of us. Maybe I am just being picky, but I was kinda put off by the fact that my food had been put in front of someone else for them to breathe on and pass on any illnesses they may be dealing with.



All in all, the food was only ok, the service was below average, and the atmosphere is dark and dreary. From our experience tonight, not really a place that I would recommend. There were a lot of other people in the place that seemed to be having a good time though, so maybe it was just us or just our server. Take it as you will, I guess.

Went out to dinner at Mark's East Side with the family, and was pleasantly surprised! Didn't know quite what to expect, however, we went on the word of our close family friends.



We decided to have a cocktail at the bar (very comfortable leather stools) and were engaged in conversation on both sides by friendly patrons who referred to themselves as "regulars." After a Hook & Ladder Ale (give this a try, it's fantastic) we decided to head in. Armed with lots of suggestions on what to try, we were ushered into a lovely dining room, and greeted by our server.



I tried the Prime Rib, and was thrilled with the flavor, portioning, and quality. I've had this cut at other places, but was truly impressed with the attention to detail that the servers and chefs showed. I had another Hook & Ladder, and afterword would have loved to try a dessert, but we were so stuffed that we couldn't possibly. While we were eating Mark himself even stopped by our table to see how we were doing, and stayed with us for nearly twenty minutes. His passion for the restaurant was evident, and we were encouraged to come back by the "no peeking" deal they had going on in July.



Normally I wouldn't take the time to recommend a place online, but Mark's was certainly worth the time. If you're looking for a high-quality, family-friendly dining experience, then Mark's East Side is for you. Don't waste your time downtown, and if you have young children don't expect nasty glances from other diners or staff. ENJOY!



P.S. I'm now proud to consider myself a "regular" here!

I have been going to Mark's East Side for several years for a weekly lunch with my mom. They have an excellent salad bar and absolutely delicious sandwiches. What I most appreciate is they do not skimp on the protein, and their ingredients are the highest quality. In addition, they have the finest wait staff in Appleton. The waitresses are friendly and professional. Our waitress, Deb, actually remembers my preferences. Go there for lunch! You will not regret it.

We frequently go to Mark's East Side for their Friday fish fry. The all you can eat haddock is excellent and the price is very fair. Fridays are extremely busy...everyone knows it's the place for fish, so your wait time can be lengthy. The food is definately worth the wait however! The only one think I didn't like, in all the years I have gone, I never ordered dessert...until my last visit. I would steer clear of their brownie selection, it's gross. They actually used a little debbie brownie. I cannot believe they would serve that! That was disappointing considering this restaurant is noted for delicious food.

I don't know where she ate but a group of us ate at Mark's on April 10th and the food and service we're exceptional. We have a ladies night once a month and try different restaurants in the surrounding area. I had the broiler Haddock with the twice baked potato and it just melted in my mouth. We all tried different dishes and they all meet with rave reviews. The atmosphere was great. We got seated right away with no reservation. The bar did get busier as we we're eating but from the staff to the after dinner drinks it was a terrific experience that is sure to be repeated often.



Thanks,



Kim