The LeMont is an institution. You can argue about whether they've kept up on food trends or whether the price is worth it.
But one thing they have in their favor - which is perhaps a bigger deal in Pittsburgh than anywhere - is continuity.
We mention this as we were there Saturday night doing espresso service for a wedding. Seems just about everyone on the LeMont service staff has been there a long time, many more than 10 years. We're sure that's very comforting to their long-time clientele and prime demographic.
Since I (Rich) moved here in 2002, I've eaten at the LeMont once. And that was the first year I was here. What made that evening memorable was not the food, not the view (although spectacular). It was our Maître D', Angel.
After we complimented the food, wine and service, we asked about his history. And that led us to a long conversation on Mexican food. We talked about how none of the Mexican restaurants in Pittsburgh did seafood well, and why they all concentrated only on ñorte dishes and combo plates.
We talked about Veracruzana style cuisine, which is the area where he grew up. We talked about his experience with opening a Mexican restaurant here. And why it failed. While I wanted to open something that specialized in southern/eastern Mexican cuisine, Angel told me firmly and respectfully what it would take and what the (substantial) risks were.
It was a conversation that I've remembered for nine years. Obviously we didn't open a Mexican restaurant.
Much to my surprise, after asking one of the staff whether Angel was still with LeMont, the man himself came over to the catering hall to say hello as we were finishing up service. He also remembered the conversation. We talked a bit more about the state of Mexican restaurants around here. He's big on Las Palmas in Brookline as are we. We're both hopeful for Verde, which is opening this fall in Garfield.
Angel is a Pro. With a capital P.
We bring this up as we know many of you are missing Lois.
Lois is our Angel. She's our continuity, having been here since we opened. She's the best here at small talk and remembering conversations. We can all (usually) remember your favorite drink, but Lois is the historian who remembers every conversation that's ever taken place within these four walls.
Not to mention she's never opened late.
If it wasn't clear before, Lois is coming back sometime shortly after Labor Day. She's taking 6-8 weeks off for some much needed R&R. We're looking forward to her return.
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