It's big! It's bustling! It's really loud! It's packed!
If you want to drink and ogle people in suits after work the patio is the place for you.
If you want to eat some great BBQ food (rib night is worth the trek) ask for a seat indoors.
The patio / drink servers are NOT very good - even late at night when the crowds have gone home and it is substantially quieter than after biz hours. They are more interested in posing than serving. Or else they are 'missing in action.' It's impossible to get a 2nd drink without getting out of your chair and chasing down anyone who would be willing to get you one and / or find your waitress. That's been my experience SEVERAL times late on a Friday or Saturday after seeing a film.
However, the service level for eating indoors is really great. They're all young, fun, enthusiastic, happy to serve and knowledgeable about the menu. I love the ribs and I'll be back for another rack soon.
All the friends I have taken to Earl's have really enjoyed it and they've turned on their friends.