Last visit: Mar 2021; Oct 2023
First visit: Jun 2019
We tried to revisit. It had been two years and I've been wanting to go back for some time. Mrs. RJG and I were seated promptly and then... subsequently ignored. Finally they received our beer order, only to ignore us further. After 25 minutes we left and went to the ever reliable Phantom Canyon Brewery (delicious but expensive). No one was even attempting to pour our beer, much less take our food order. That's how one gets "hangry". One wonders why a restaurant bothers to open if they refuse to serve their customers. What's clear is there was no active management on hand. I fear to say this is the end of our relationship with Colorado Craft. Typically when we see this behavior, it's not long after the restaurant closes anyway. Wait for it.
---4/7/21 review
Colorado Craft had become of the RJG's favorite haunts prior to the pandemic - exactly the kind of place we love. Quality food and an extensive and unique beer selection. In fact the premise of that selection is to offer as many local breweries as possible. Over time that has dwindled considerably, whether that's because of the pandemic's effects on the breweries, or a conscious decision to "play to favorites", it's hard to know. In addition to that, the menu has really been pared down. Prior to covid, I would usually indulge in a large Cuban sandwich, always a staple for when I go to craft taverns. Today they offer primarily hamburgers and chicken sandwiches, plus a small variety of higher end dishes like steak and salmon. And plenty of large appetizers as well.
As for our last dining experience, despite the limitations, all turned out well. I tried for the first time their pork green chili, which is one of the best I've had in a while. Definitely had that unique flavor and packed a heat punch. The pork was minced, which is a winning idea. My only (small) gripe is the chili wasn't hot enough temperature. This can be blamed on it sitting at the kitchen counter for too long, as we noticed it just waiting for the server to pick it up. We do wish for more attentive service at times. Mrs. RJG and I ordered the hamburger and chicken sandwich, and then split it. Both were excellent and hearty. We tried the truffle fries, which adds a very nice cheese and garlic flavor. Like the little "fryer baskets" too.
As for repeat visits, I'll need some convincing that their beer list will go back to heavy rotation, otherwise it's not worth going downtown for the same beers and a hamburger. Especially now that Colorado Springs collects parking money, even on Sundays.
7/28/19; 4/7/21 (new entry); 10/26/23
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