Craftsman Tavern in Encinitas

A group of my friends have been celebrating each others birthdays for several years by going out to lunch. We now combine several birthdays into one celebration, and in early February we celebrated my birthday and our friend Renee's, at Craftsman Tavern. None of us had dined there before, and with the reviews being mixed, we were a little bit skeptical. However, we're always up for something new, so we went there on a recent Friday, at noon. Some of the on line criticisms of the restaurant were the noise level, the crowded seating, and the long wait. However, we had reservations and went early, and had a wonderful experience. Our waiter was helpful, explaining all the dishes, and bringing everything we needed promptly. We never felt rushed. The restaurant looks like an old tavern, with wooden tables, some low, some high, and a nice casual bar. A real neighborhood eatery. They even have a comunnal table.(that's a great way to see what others are eating and what they like). The noise level would be high with a full house, as there is nothing on the floor or the windows. I hear the music at night can get pretty loud. However, the restaurant was only about 1/2 full on the day we ate there. The menu is terrific. There is something for everyone. The most popular item at our table was the trio of soup (butternut squash), salad (mixed greens with pecans and walnuts), and 1/2 fresh turkey sandwich for $12. I had a BLAT sandwich. The bacon was thick and smokey, and the avocado and tomato were topped with a delicious aioli. The bread was grilled, and the sandwich was served with homemade potato chips. There were many interesting salads, including their signature BLT salad and a wonderful beet salad with goat cheese and hazelnuts. At lunch time you can also order from the bar menu, which includes things like popcorn with truffle oil, mac 'n cheese, deep fried brussel sprouts. Dinner includes things like short ribs, fish, burgers, pulled pork sandwiches, petite tenderloin and fries, and roasted chicken. Food is delicious, plentiful and beautifully presented. For dessert we ordered their signature butterscotch pudding with whipped cream and salted caramel on top. OMG. Owner Wade Hageman has created a menu that will keep you coming back. There's always something new that you want to try. For drinkers, the happy hour is probably your best bet. Reduction on beer and wine, and many happy hour food items to choose from. Hageman also owns Blue Ribbon Pizzeria in Encinitas, one of my favorite pizzerias in all of San Diego. Craftsman is a great place to go for lite snacks and a drink, or a full meal. I recommend trying lunch, as you'll avoid the crowds, the higher prices, and the noise, yet still have the same wonderful food.