Rate-A-Restaurant #229: Four Cafe

Restaurant: Four Cafe

Location: 2122 1/2 Colorado Blvd. (Eagle Rock)

Type of restaurant: American



We stipulated: I had picked up a 30% off dinner coupon from Blackboard Eats for Four Cafe. The coupon was set to expire on July 14 -- so we wanted to try it before it was too late.

They stipulated: "Four Café harvests the freshest organic ingredients the community has to offer, and Chef Michelle Wilton transforms them into inventive yet comforting seasonal dishes. Inspired by a desire to nurture the body and the mind, Four Café is committed to buying locally from Farmers Markets, using a Slow Food cooking approach, and providing a high level of service in a relaxed atmosphere."



What we ordered: Grilled Fish Sandwich -- mahi mahi, heirloom tomato, tarter slaw ($11); Roasted Eggplant Pita -- spiced chickpeas, kale, feta, mint yogurt sauce ($9); kids grilled cheese ($5); peach gingerade -- peach, ginger, agave, sparking water ($3)



High point: That all-natural homemade soda was nice -- a little bit of spice courtesy the ginger, and a richness from the peach. Also, it's nice that the Four Cafe boasts an extensive kids menu -- seven different choices. The owners clearly know who their customers are.

Low point: I loved the bun that my fish sandwich came on, and the mahi mahi was cooked well. Yet it still came off a tad bland, I'm afraid.



Overall impression: The atmosphere to Four Cafe is great -- its homey yet very contemporary. We also love the goal of using fresh ingredients, of patronizing local farmers' markets and constantly shifting the menu. (It's also great that Four Cafe is casual enough that kids are welcome -- just look at that kids menu!) Four Cafe could really turn into something spectacular. It's not there yet, but it could be.



Chance we'll go back: I think we'll return to see how Four Cafe has evolved at some point.



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