review of miamilunchgroup's first meeting at table 8

the miami lunch group's first meeting was held at table 8 on ocean drive in south beach to sample their own version of a continuation of miami spice type of program that includes an appetizer,entree,dessert,and a glass of wine for $20.We feltthat it was a good value price-wise,but the food selections available were not the strongest dishes that table 8 can produce.Service from our waitress dina was the best part of the meal.We started with a grilled shrimp appetizer that included avocado,cucumber shavings,poblano pepper relish,cilantro,lemon and lime zest.We rated this dish a 6 out of 10.We also had the roasted corn chowder that included a shiitake mushroom and pea garnish inside.Another 6 out of 10 rating.The chicken caesar salad entree,although generous in portion,was only rated a 3 out of 10 as we felt it tasted dried out.At least the chicken wasnt smothered in mayo as in alot of other restaurants.The buccotini entree included shiitake,crimini,and oyster mushrooms,with shallots and fennel.We rated this a 5 out of 10 as we felt it was a pasta dish that didnt distinguish itself from the multitude of pasta offerings at other south beach restaurants.Desserts ordered included a peanut butter brownie rated a 6 out of 10,as well as a panna cotta with rasberry coulis which although portion size was smallish was rated a 7 out of 10.From the wines offered on this special promotion ,the first glass of pinot noir was refrigerated,the second served room temperature,but was pleasant drinking.Lunch was slow at 1pm monday.This enabled us to have great conversation about our restaurant experiences in miami area.All those interested in joining our group please contact jon at miamilunchgroup@gmail.com to see when and where we will meet for the next lunch experience.