I don't know anything about the chef nor his reputation. A group of us we going to have a business lunch and we wanted to go here since its around the corner, but alas no lunch. The menu was intriguing though, so I went back a couple nights later.
Alas, it was worth it. Inside was well decorated. It had kind of a lodge look, but there was a small bit of whimsy with the photos and such. The service was spot on, and did not come around after the food was delivered to badger us about how everything was.
Speaking of food- the green chili macaroni n cheese is the best mac and cheese I think, ever. There was just the right amount of chili flavor to not overwhelm. This alone would make me want to come back. The smoked chicken flatbread was good. The burger was perfectly cooked and huge, although completely unseasoned. This isn't a gripe, just unexpected.
The wines list is good as well. If you want a cheap one and don't mind white, get the Argentinian wine under "unusual." It was worth paying restaurant price for.