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Wednesday, May 12, 2010

Rate-A-Restaurant #225: Larkin's


(Flickr pic by dreamyshade.)

Restaurant: Larkin's

Location: 1496 Colorado (Eagle Rock)

Type of restaurant: Contemporary soul food

We stipulated: We had a coupon ($10 off), and although we had heard mixed things about Larkin's -- including service problems -- we decided it was time to check it out.


(Flickr pic by Calamity Hane.)

They stipulated: "Larkin’s marks a new era in soul food, with dishes characterized by old recipes of the South combined with dynamic contemporary flavors and preparation techniques. Chef Larkin Mackey brings years of experience combining traditional soul food with his Californian upbringing to his restaurant."


(Flickr pic by Calamity Hane.)

What we ordered: Country Style (Two pieces of fried chicken sided up with two buttermilk biscuits smothered in our homemade gravy; $12). Hotlink Scramble (Eggs, potatoes, onions, peppers & hot links, topped with cheese. Served with a biscuit; $12). Larkin's Toast (Battered in a bread crumb mixture of brown sugar and cinnamon. Served with our pure maple syrup; $7)

High point: That french toast -- er, "Larkin's Toast" -- was quite good. And the chicken was quite crispy. Plus, the free lemonade refills (and the big coffee mugs) were appreciated.

Low point: The scrambles couldn't be ordered with egg whites. And the gravy was a bit too garlicky.

Overall impression: We went for brunch on a Saturday afternoon, and the restaurant was empty enough that we got to sit in what essentially became our own dining room. With so few fellow patrons, service was also quick and strong. (Others who have visited in busier times haven't been so lucky.) Coffee was also tasty.

Chance we'll go back: That's tough to say. We had a decent visit, and I did enjoy that Larkin's toast. But we don't feel this compelling need to immediately return. We'll see.

(For our complete list of 225 restaurant reviews, check out our companion Rate-A-Restaurant site.)

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