This is a premium casual restaurant & bar operating on the same principles as Milestones and Moxie's. There's a level of dependability, ranging from mediocrity to decent, that I've come to like about places like Earls. Reducing the uncertainty factor really helps with dining in bigger groups. The menu has something for everyone.
The hostesses here make me wonder if Barney Stinson is running their HR. There are a lot of them on the floor and there is a good server to table ratio maintained in order to deal with the exceptionally large lunch crowd. Our server was very personable and attentive. She came by at least three or four times to take drink orders or to ask how the food is.
I wasn't particularly wowed by my Italia pizza (found it a bit too dry and salty) but I was impressed by the look of the variety of pastas, salads and the one massive cheeseburger ordered at our table.
It's difficult to find fault in my experience with Earls, so far. It's clean and chic, has good service, and gives you a good bang for your buck (excluding beverages). I would also like to acknowledge their indestructible glassware.