Traditionally, my poor deprived sims have not been allowed to visit the Big Smoke for years on end, partly because when they did, I found everything ugly and ill-designed.

I tried a few makeovers done by other people, but many of them use masses of CC, which complicates matters. Eventually I decided to make my own improvements. Whenever I have a new Downtown, I have to bulldoze the original lots and put in my replacements. One day I may get around to replacing the subhood file completely, but for now, I am keeping the replacement lots in the bin.

Bernard's Botanical Dining was the first lot to be renovated. My aim was to improve looks and functionality, while maintaining the character the lot was intended to have. I rather liked the concept of Bernard's, but it did need some refurbishment...

Instead of being open to the sky, with those large trees blocking the centre of the lot, the restaurant is now properly roofed, with double greenhouse structures to either side. There are still plenty of 'botanicals', but as a player, I can see most of what's going on from one vantage point.

You may like to have a drink at the bar while waiting for the rest of your party, or just chill in the lounge area. There are also two rear patio areas, one with swings and the other with a bubble machine. The bathroom is unisex, although it has gendered entrance doors.

The restaurant still has two elevated dining areas, now known as the Texas Room and the Bamboo Room - specify which you want when reserving a table!

Or, if it's just you and that special someone, book a private dining experience beside the tranquil pools. Great views of the hoi polloi, but none of them close enough to overhear your sweet nothings!

Overview:

My sims like Bernard's more than ever since the refurb, and so do I!

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