The Populist

My first experience ended up being my best experience.  I've returned several times since its proximity to my house makes me want to love it...However, it's just okay.  In all honesty the food is 4 or 5 stars, the service two.  My last visit (probably 2 months ago) ended  almost as quickly as it began.  My hubby and I popped in and sat at the bar...and we sat....and sat...and sat...after 10 mins of watching the bartenders (that's right TWO for a tiny little bar)  chit-chat with the servers, we walked out.  So disappointing.

I had wanted to come here for some time, and finally everything fell into place and we were able to.
The Populist kind of reflects its neighborhood- it's an up-and-coming restaurant in an up-and-coming neighborhood, and just like the lower rent houses around it, this restaurant is certainly on the cheaper side for New American.
Note- they do not seat incomplete parties, even when I pointed to our third person walking up the block. So, have everyone ready, though they did say they'd put me on the list at the top if the restaurant filled up.

We sat at the community tables outside, which for the first time ever actually led to great conversations with those around us. I will note that the tables are REALLY difficult to get seated at- imagine a very tight picnic table; not easy to do in a dress.

We tried a variety of cocktails, which ranged from OK to good, but probably not worth $10. I also tried some of their Infinite Monkey Theorem wine on tap, which was better than IMT wine is in the bottle, at least to me. For food, we tried the kale farro salad (very good and easily split amongst 3 people), I got the mussels and marrow, and my husband got the bacon and egg plate. I would never have thought mussels and bone marrow would pair well together but they mostly did, though getting marrow out is a bit clunky and difficult. We also tried the earl grey tea cake for dessert which was very moist and really well seasoned.

Our server was pretty good; accommodating though a bit snippy. She walked by our table, nothing in hand, and I got her attention. When she came over I asked for a specific drink, and she replied, "is it OK with you if I go clear that table first?" in a really, really dismissive tone. I said sure, she cleared their table, then came back over for me to repeat myself....for no reason. It was a bit odd, but that was all.

I'll happily come here again- I'm especially intrigued by the $70 tasting menu for 2- what a steal! Considering it's 7 courses (though split, several of them), I think that's a great deal and I'll happily return, though I'll probably wear pants and look for a different server.

Get over your American sensibilities that say you can't sit within twelve inches of another party at dinner, forget the recommendations for the duck sandwich, order the steak frites and a salad to start and go along for the ride. A true asset to the five points larimer area. Bravo.