Savor the Experience at The Kings Contrivance Restaurant
The Kings Contrivance Restaurant is a renowned fine dining institution in Columbia, Maryland, with a rich history dating back to 1730. Located in a beautifully restored Federal Period mansion, our restaurant offers an exceptional culinary experience, blending New American cuisine with European and Asian influences in a relaxed and elegant atmosphere. With over 40 years of experience, we have established ourselves as Howard County's finest restaurant, consistently voted as the top dining destination in the area.
Our Services
At The Kings Contrivance Restaurant, we take pride in providing exceptional service and cuisine for a wide range of occasions. Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner for two, a private event for 5 to 200 guests, or a grand wedding reception, our experienced team is dedicated to making your visit an unforgettable experience. Our services include:
- Fine dining for lunch and dinner, featuring gluten-free options and an extensive wine list
- Private events, including weddings, rehearsal dinners, business functions, and parties
- Outdoor patio available for events, weather permitting
- Tent rental options for larger events
- Exceptional catering services for off-site events
- State-of-the-art audio-visual equipment and wireless internet access for business meetings and presentations
Our History
The Kings Contrivance Restaurant is steeped in history, with its roots dating back to 1730 when the Lord Baltimore granted a 780-acre farm to the Reverend James Macgill. The stately Federal Period mansion was built on the present site, which was later rebuilt in the late 1890s after a fire. The Macgill family resided in the mansion until the 1960s, when it was converted into a fine dining restaurant. Our current ownership group has operated the restaurant since 1975, dedicating themselves to providing exceptional cuisine and service to the local community.
Our Mission
At The Kings Contrivance Restaurant, our mission is to provide an exceptional dining experience, exceeding our guests' expectations in every way. We strive to create a warm and inviting atmosphere, combining outstanding cuisine, impeccable service, and attention to detail to make every visit a memorable one. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a great meal, we're committed to making your experience at The Kings Contrivance Restaurant truly unforgettable.
Food and Beverages
Many reviewers praised the food, with some mentioning that it was delicious and freshly prepared. The seafood bisque, softshell crab, orzo croquettes, chicken florentine, and tiramisu were particularly well-received. However, some reviewers found the food to be average, bland, or poorly prepared, such as the seafood soup, tuna sashimi, steak, and vegetables. The chef's special bread basket and baked brie were highlights for some.
Service
Positive comments about the service included friendly, attentive, and professional staff. A few reviewers mentioned that their servers anticipated their needs and made recommendations. However, some reviewers experienced poor service, such as long waits for food, empty water glasses, and unresponsive servers. One reviewer even had to ask their server for a refund or compensation, but was met with a note for their next visit instead.
Atmosphere
Reviewers appreciated the historic colonial estate setting and charming atmosphere. Some mentioned that the private setting made it a good choice for events or special occasions. However, others found the atmosphere to be average or somewhat lacking due to poor service and mediocre food.
Overall Experience
While some reviewers had a positive experience, others were disappointed with their visit. Common complaints included poor food quality, slow service, and understaffing. Several reviewers mentioned that they would not return to the restaurant due to these issues.
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