Today was the day Colleen and I finally made it over to Tilia. We’ve wanted to go there for a long time, but got scared off by the reports of long waits for a table. A rainy Thursday just after noon proved to be no problem, as there were at least half a dozen tables open for two.

Steven Brown’s “neighborhood eatery” wasn’t exactly what I pictured in my head. It’s a small space, with a little bar on one side and the kitchen on the other (both with counter space). Not a whole lot of tables in the rest of the restaurant, so I can see how waits during busier times could easily become quite long.

Our waitress told us the fryer was out of service, so some of the menu might not be available. I had wanted to try their French Fries with “fry sauce,” but that wasn’t in the cards. Thankfully there were plenty of other good options – Colleen started with the escargot with maitre d’ butter, mushrooms and gruyere ($10.50), while I ordered the grilled bread with prosciutto and fresh mozzarella ($8, pictured above).

For the main course, we both had burgers – Colleen had the turkey burger with charred onions and morbier ($9.50) and I had the bacon cheeseburger ($9.75). The bacon on mine was a little overcooked and that first bite sort of ruined it for me. Colleen, though, said hers was the best turkey burger she’s had anywhere.

It looked like they have a very interesting beer and wine selection, but neither of us were drinking alcohol today (I stuck with the old standby, Mexican Coke). Service was good, but not outstanding. It was loud in there at 60% capacity, so I’m guessing it gets really loud when full.

Overall, I’d have to say that this was one of those experiences where I had such high expectations going in, it was probably impossible for them to meet the hype. Based on the menu, I think I’d like to go back and try the brunch sometime (Saturday and Sunday, 9am – 2:45pm). Colleen will obviously want to go back for the turkey burger too.

Great web site, by the way…