Joe R.
Yelp
First, let me start with the bottom line: Alqueria is in my experience the best farm-to-table restaurant for your money in North America. And I've lived in NYC and California, and travel a lot to foodie towns like Birmingham, Nashville, Austin, and San Francisco. My wife and I have been to Alqueria about half a dozen times in the two years we've lived here in Columbus. Each time we go we leave wondering why on earth we bother going anywhere else for dinner. I'm shocked how few people in this town know about this hidden gem.
OK, so on to the details. I'll describe our order from last night. But for the most part we ate things we've had before because once is not enough.
The food. The appetizers, which do change with the seasons (and maybe the week), are crowd favorite items, done differently. You've had Brussels spouts but not like Alqueria's. Crispy and bursting with flavor. Fried green tomatoes: the most lightly crispy and flavorful and fresh I've ever had. Bread and artisan butter? Get it. We didn't have salad last night but every time we do it's perfectly (ie not overly) dressed so you can taste the greens but appreciate the art in the dressing.
Mains. OK so we always get the fried chicken. It's ridiculous. Trust me. Last night we also got the hamburger. Also ridiculous. This town knows how to do these American staples. And even with stiff completion, Alqueria makes them both next level. Beyond burgers and fried chicken, the menu always includes some creative gourmet inventions. We've previously enjoyed duck, lamb, and fish options. Always bursting with flavor yet light. (One disappointment: in our last two visits, the Shrimp and Grits was not on the menu. My gosh if these aren't the best ever. Seriously. Please bring 'em back!)
And next, the drinks. OK so there are places that are know specifically for their mixed concoctions. Alqueria deserves to be on the list, here. As much attention goes into the drinks as anything else on the menu. The drinks here are Art. I recommend trying something new. Usually I drink only bourbon but last night the waiter -- who was perfect in every way, and came to visit just the right amount of times without bothering, and made excellent suggestions -- the waiter suggested some spicy tequila thing. Wasn't too spicy. Just enough to cause a sparkle in the mouth. Gosh was it good.
And dessert. Always something new each time you go. Last night sadly we were too stuffed to try anything. But every time we have, it's been delicious.
My recommendation: go with a group so you can try the whole menu! But also this is a great place for a date or, I imagine, a business dinner. Outdoor seating is extremely enjoyable, and the indoor decor feels like a farmhouse. Both are great options depending on the time of year.
The prices: this is subjective but in my opinion, compared to the norm for mediocre fancy in the Short North and German Village, the menu items are extremely reasonably priced. That's part of the delight of Alqueria. You won't feel robbed. Many restaurants in Columbus seem to trying their best to contribute to regional inflation these days. I am glad Alqueria is not one of them.
Finally, given the focus on farm fresh produce, be sure to go to Alqueria during the summer. That's when it's most special. Winter is great too, but the summer menu is not to be missed.
How this place isn't on every single top 10 list for Columbus boggles the mind. It is #1.