In March 2012, we named CafeBar to our Best New Restaurants list because of its welcoming Wash Park neighborhood vibe and its menu of comfort classics. Seven months later, in a full review, we felt CafeBar had begun to struggle—mostly in service—to retain its original allure. But if my meal last week is any indication, CafeBar is back on track.

On a warm Monday evening, when the patio was mostly full, our server was attentive at the right times, and had ready answers to all of our questions…about wine, about the cheese plate, about the portion sizes. The manager also checked in to make sure we had what we needed.

Which we did. I thoroughly enjoyed the light-and-satisfying blackened trout salad in which a crispy, skin-on piece of slightly spiced rainbow trout arrived atop a cool and crunchy blend of jicama, red pepper, quinoa, cilantro, arugula, and—my favorite addition—tangy pickled onions. The dish was united by just enough zesty lime vinaigrette, and a glass of dry rose completed the meal.

295 S. Pennsylvania, 303-322-0227