Ovation Bistro Winter Haven

Interesting place, completely opposite that I usually like, as fine dining and arty atmosphere. Atmosphere was not the best, dark and not too friendly for a family with 5 years old, but… food and service was excellent. We liked everything we ordered, I had ribs, perfectly cooked, seasoned and served!

If you ever wanted to go to a place where the moment you hear smoked steak that is wood grilled, your mouth instantly waters, this is the place. The moment my family and I entered, we were greeted by the owner into a simple yet elegant atmosphere where you can go underdressed or overdressed and not feel like you are standing out. The service was welcoming from start to finish, and the moment I chomped down on their suggested Prime Rib, my taste buds exploded from pure satisfaction. The meat was tender and well seasoned as well as their sides. This is a bistro restaurant I definitely see myself coming back to.

This used to be my favorite lunch spot. Not anymore. Ordered their Ribeye Steak and they brought me a Sirloin. Worst part is the kitchen knew it was the wrong steak(this came from management. Friend ordered the Brisket and it was not good at all. Not sure what has happened to the quality of staff and food we were used to before. Waitress looked to be unhappy to be at work.

Went to Ovation on Cyprus Garden Blvd. My wife made a 6:15 reservation and we got there at 6 and we were made to wait until our reservation time of 6:15 even though there were 4 empty tables. We were sat at a booth that'd was so narrow that the table rubbed against both mine and my wife's chest during the whole meal. We decided on sirloin and ribs with baked potatoes. The sirloin steak was 6 oz about the size of a can of coke round. Dinner was served with a salad which I am not thoroughly convinced it had dressing on it. There also was bread in a basket that was warm served with rock hard butter. The only knife we had was the butcher knife (12 inches long) to spread the butter. With the table pushing on my chest and rubbing continually while I tried to eat I just wanted the meal to be over. $60 for a meal that was not that great.

Cannot say enough good things about this place. We have been wanting to try it and are so glad we did. The staff was extremely friendly. Our server, Shelby should be kloned so the world has more excellent servers. The food was truly tremendous! Great flavor, came out hot, steak just like it was ordered, inviting food and drink specials. I have the chicken alfredo and it was superb. Restaurant was very clean, which makes a big difference in my reviews and desire to return again. I could go on forever, I think. Met the GM, Robert who came by the table to ensure we were enjoying the meal and ourselves... And indeed we were. Please, if you have not tried this place, do yourself a favor and go there. I can assure you that you will NOT be disappointed. Thanks to Shelby, Robert and the rest of the staff for caring and making it show!!!