{please note this review is pre-the-big-remodel of 2015}

The first Dames aux Gateaux dinner took place at Joe’s of Westlake in the historic Westlake District of Daly City. An old-school Italian style restaurant that has been family owned since 1956. When we arrived we were surprised to find that the parking lot was filled. Honestly this place was happening for a Thursday at 7pm.  The live band in the bar, the clown paintings, the wood-paneled walls and the age 60 plus clientele were as classic as the cocktails. The main Dining Room has solid leather white booths and a counter you can sit at and watch the chefs at work in their high brimmed chef hats. The cocktail bar boasts not only glass grapes hanging from the ceiling but a cozy metal fireplace. The whole place feels like you are stepping back in time.

Our newly formed gaggle of  Dames were seated at a large table in the Cascade Room. Although not the main Dining Room this side room does have many classic touches including our waiter! He seemed was very impressed by our enthusiasm of Joe’s of Westlake. Since some of the girls didn’t know each other we played a round of ‘Speed Dating Dames Style”. We indulged in numerous cocktails, buttery creamed spinach, lots of ravioli and of course dessert!

Overall Dames aux Gateaux Rating (1, lowest – 5, highest)
Ambiance – 4 Dames forks
Service – 4 Dames forks
Food – 3 Dames forks
Cocktails – 4 Dames forks
Dessert – 3 Dames forks

Dame Shona “Joe’s of Westlake was the first time that I realized the pure joy of sitting at a table with other amazing ladies who also dream of someday having Auntie Mame’s apartment.”

Dame Baby Doe “As a vegetarian I would recommend the Fettucine, I ordered the half order and it was so big I couldn’t eat it all!”

Dame Lynn “It was awesome to be greeted in the parking lot by sauced Senior Citizen Gentlemen who called us ‘The Cheerleaders!’ “

Joe’s of Westlake
11 Glenwood Ave, Daly City, CA 94015
(650) 755-7400
http://www.joesofwestlake.com