Crafted is my neighbor, and I have visited 45 times over the years. If I turn to my right as I type this, I will quite literally see their lovely covered patio space. As such, it doesn't exactly feel great to be downgrading my review, but my previous sentiments aren't necessarily accurate anymore.
My visits have dropped off in recent months, and it seems like the restaurant itself is dropping off, too, if you just read some of their latest reviews or stop in. I know they had a shift in their ownership, and it appears to be reflecting poorly on the restaurant.
I'm not a big craft beer drinker anymore, but it turns out that doesn't matter, as Crafted is no longer a craft beer spot (see the picture I posted today for their offerings). I used to looooove traipsing over there to try their rotating draft list with some top-tier brands on it. This past weekend, I had a beer-loving friend in town from another state, so we stopped in on Thursday night. The bar area was pretty empty around 7 pm. I was embarrassed that I wasted his time, as they just serve domestics and the most basic of local pours these days.
When I talked to the bartender about it, he seemed fairly nonchalant and informed me that Crafted can mean more than beer, such as craft food and craft cocktails. So let's talk about the craft cocktail I ordered. I selected the espresso martini. I love a good espresso martini. Crafted managed to serve me the worst one I genuinely think I've ever consumed. It was weirdly frigid, crunchy, and looked like it was curdling upon arrival. I don't know how they managed it, but I would highly recommend not ordering one of those.
I've ordered quite a bit from their food menu over the years. I didn't order any food on our latest trip to see if it fits the "craft" label, but I've been within the past few months for dinner and it was just okay. Nothing extraordinary. I know they're impacted by inflation so I won't comment on the drastic price increases I've seen beyond saying they have been pretty steep jumps for decreasing quality.
At this point in time, unless they have a major revamp, I don't see a reason to return. I'd rather spend my money on an experience I know is going to be better and my money will be appreciated, such as at my other neighbors, Acacia and Shagbark. read more