Charley's Restaurant & Lounge, Mankato

I can't say that I agree with the people who rated Charley's before me. First off it took them about 10 minutes to notice me standing there before they sat me, even though there was a total of 4 couples eating there when I arrived. I then ordered the beer battered cauliflower as an appetizer which took roughly 15 minutes to get out to me. Which would have been okay if the cauliflower was cooked all the way through. I then ordered the steak (medium) and shrimp with garlic mashed potatoes and bread. The steak was cooked perfectly, though the shrimp was a little over cooked. The garlic mashed potatoes were very dry and had some very hard bits in them (no idea what they were but I stopped eating them after the first few bites) and finally the bread never showed up. Though I do have to say that the ambiance of the place was very nice and the wait staff were very courteous, if a little on the shy side of showing up to refill your drink or ask you if you need anything else. I may go again just to find out if I went on an off night though.

In a town full of chain restaurants, Charley's is always a breath of fresh air. The service is excellent and the food well prepared and always tasty. It is such lovely ambiance, too. We eat there whenever we want a great meal or have a special occassion.

Food is excellent, service by owner and staff is congenial. Prices are good for food and service. NOT a one stopper. Rick