My parents and I are on a strict health food diet.

So when we went to Pete’s, a recently opened restaurant in El Dorado Hills Town Center, we came in with expectations of salads and calorie counting. However, upon first glance at the menu, I knew that I couldn’t bring myself to choose just one thing. Everything seemed too delicious to pass up. I quickly decided to order the Toasted Garlic Bread appetizer and New York Steak and Shrimp platter, much to the surprise of the waitress - who was probably wondering why I would attempt to handle that much food on my five-foot frame. My dining partners chose the Artichoke Hearts to start, followed by meals of the Shrimp Linguine and Pete’s Steak House Salad.

We opted to eat outside, so, while waiting, I sipped on pink lemonade, casually chatted with my family, and observed Town Center’s crowds. The warm summer breeze and banter lended a vacation feel to the restaurant, but with classic American fare on offer, tunes by the likes of Madonna, and just close enough to home to see familiar faces walk past.

When the food came out of the oven piping hot, we were eager to begin eating. I shared my appetizer of garlic bread, paired with a tangy marinara sauce. My steak was cooked juicy and medium well, and sat atop a bed of fresh lettuce, while the shrimp was dipped in garlic butter. Matched with a generous portion of fries, the meal surpassed my expectations. My parents also enjoyed their eating experiences. The Pete’s Steak House Salad featured crunchy onions, almonds, steak, and the usual fixings, while the linguine offered shrimp and mushrooms in a creamy sauce.

Although we were all full, we shared the Strawberry Cheesecake. And so the night ended...with stomachs full, boxes of leftovers in hand, and just in time to catch a movie. I’ll definitely be returning - but next time, I think I’ll choose a smaller meal!