Tony's Brings High End North

Search the internet for restaurants in Mason, Ohio and you will get two options - Chain or Asian. While there is no disputing that Mason offers some great independant Asian restaurants, they are lacking much else for those who enjoy the unique qualities that non-chain restaurants offer. Tony's hopes to fill this glaring hole.

Tony brings his knowledge of steakhouses, earned through years in Jeff Ruby kitchens, north. The wine menu was large and had a good mix of prices, but I tried something different and got a cocktail. If only interested in a drink I highly recommend a stop at Tony's, no where else in the Warren County are will you find such a unique list of cocktails. I tried the rootbeer refresher which contained Vanilla Vodka-rootbeer vodka- and coke. The drink was strong, but there was no way you could drink this without thinking of a delicious root beer float, combining classy and whimsical.

Like any steakhouse you are not going to get out cheaply, but you will not be disappointed. We had meals that crossed the menu - Scallops - Quail - and a Filet. All three were so good that no one wanted to share. The filet was requested rare, and it was, but still had a nice crust that sealed in all of the flavors. The quail and scallops were nicely coupled with summer flavors. Unlike most steakhouses the food came with sides including buttery delicious mashed potatoes with the steak and quail.

We splurged on the creme brulee which was good, but nothing special. We probably should have tried the cannoli which Tony's mom makes.

Tony was everywhere talking to customers nad ensuring that everything was going well, which I enjoy. Our waiter was excellent. He was there when we needed him, answered all our questions, but was not overly pushy or involved in our dinner.

Tony's wife did the decorating, and I am not sure I understood her plan, but this is not a big part of the dining experience for me. There are about ten different types of lighting, all were nice on their own, and the room was properly lit, but I can't figure out how it all goes together.

Overall I would highly recommend that you save a trip downtown and stop at Tony's for your next nice meal out.