Gratified!
Located at 125 Datura Street, where Spoto’s used to reside (and I’m still mourning that loss), stands the new Gratify Pub.
We arrived early for our first visit (no reservations accepted), and were seated easily, but it wasn’t long before every “comfortable” spot was taken. One of the first things you notice is an unusual arrangement that doesn’t allow for a huge seated crowd, but I can see it becoming a popular gathering and meeting spot, especially with a menu of “late night” offerings. Upon entering, there is a well situated bar and a few high top tables. As you walk further back, there are what I refer to as “half” booths where there is one continuous cushioned area against the wall with chairs opposite and only about six or seven small tables strategically placed. Depending on your group, the tables can be moved together or apart. There is also a long counter with chairs, reminding me of a sushi bar, but no one chose to sit in that space. I, personally, would not find that a suitable spot to enjoy a relaxing meal.
I must say that Gratify will probably be successful, as there were several “celebrity” sightings this particular night. To our left sat the famous Howard Pincus and his lovely wife Susan with their very beautiful family. They all gave a big thumbs up 
to dinner as they left, although I’m not sure that their grandchild had quite the discernible palate at such a young age. To the right of us sat a group that included our very own Mayor Lois. So we encountered a very high profile crowd on our first visit.
Now on to the main event….beginning with cocktails. One martini, one mojito — both chocolate flavored. Not a bad start. Instead of the usual bread basket, chips are served. Some were crispy, while others were a bit stale and limp. We couldn’t decide if there were different types of chips meant to be this way, or they mixed in some old with the new. We each ordered the cream of tomato soup appetizer which was very flavorful. The main menu is very similar in concept to the now defunct Clematis Social (where Reef Road now sits on Clematis). If you are familar with this notion, there are some main courses (a couple of seafood choices, and the usual meat and fowl dishes), but the majority are “small plates” which are great for sharing. We ordered the Arugula Flatbread, Mozzarella Ciliegine (little balls of cheese in olive oil with herbs), the Crab Tower, and a Trio of pulled pork sliders.
To better describe each dish, here is the menu.
I do have a small complaint about whomever is working the cappuccino machine. When they arrived, the foamy head hid the fact that the cups were not filled, so we barely had half a drink. My other half did not like the flourless chocolate cake, but, hey, more for me!! The only other dessert, for now, is a sweet potato pie. We were informed that there will be a pastry chef hired soon, so the dessert offerings should expand.
Service was friendly and attentive, and every level of staff would stop by to make sure we were enjoying the meal.
Were we Gratified? Yes, and will return to try the other fare. There may be a few kinks to work out, but, hopefully, they will do well.
