I have to admit that I felt a little out of place as my friend and I walked into 1703. We were both wearing jeans and t-shirts with little makeup; a wardrobe that was, according to the glances we got from our waiter and the host, completely unacceptable at their restaurant. We received skeptical looks from the other well-dressed patrons as we were led to our seats. Apparently, we were the only people that did not get the memo from 1703 that they are a big deal.

Despite their impressive clientele and impeccable interior décor, I was surprisingly unimpressed with almost every aspect of the restaurant.
Located Robinhood Road, 1703 is an upscale restaurant sitting right in the middle of an equally upscale area. It is surrounded by the pricey Rebecca and Co., and the affluent Buena Vista neighborhood. Therefore, the high prices at 1703 were somewhat expected (a hamburger runs about $16) but definitely not warranted if judged by the quality of the food.

The meal started out with a small complimentary bread basket with butter. My friend and I enjoyed the pleasant background music of John Mayer as we chatted about the end of summer and our plans for our suite the coming semester. It was when we actually looked down at our menu that things got a little more serious. $17 for an entrée? $12 for a turkey sandwich? Were they kidding?!

After recovering from our initial price-tag shock, we settled on a Greek chicken pita and the aforementioned $12 turkey sandwich. It was while we were looking at the menu that the pretentious nature of 1703 was shown at its best as they offered items such as lemon caper remoulade and chardonnay butter. Instead of serving French fries like a normal restaurant, 1703 suggested we try pommes frites (a short, skinny French fry).

After our food was delivered, things continued to go downhill. Neither of the entrees was appealing. The Greek chicken pita was not what one would expect. It included odd ingredients such as capers, spinach, and cherry tomatoes. The turkey sandwich was actually fairly tasty, but I felt as if I could have made the exact same thing on my own in my kitchen without having to spend $12.

On a more positive note, the dessert we had was delicious. My friend and I split a serving of chocolate mousse with Chantilly crème. This was served in small black tea cups and garnished with fresh berries. I also appreciated the pommes frites. Even if they really were just small French fries.

I would recommend 1703 if you are taking someone to dinner that you really want to impress. Although I have eaten at , the ambiance and high prices at 1703 would definitely make a statement to both you and your guest.