I was in Tyler, Texas last week. not the most exciting town, but it does have an abundance of dining options. In my previous visits there, I frequently drove by the Cotton Patch Cafe (www.cottonpatch.com) just never had the chance to stop in. I'm glad I did this time. I assumed that was the only location, but I learned that it's a regional chain with locations in Texas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico.
The atmosphere is about what you would expect looking at the outside. It just put off that T.G.I. Fridays type of vibe, plus a bit too dim for me in the dining area. It didn't really have an effect on my overall assessment of the restaurant, but it would have been nice to walk into a more pleasant setting considering the casual feel and price point.
I noticed a nice variety on the menu, but nothing especially unique or Texan jumped out at me. At this point I had a feeling I might be looking at mediocre dining experience. Until I decided I was in the mood for pork chops! Two center cut chops and two sides AND cornbread for $10.99... sign me up.
As soon as I dug into this meal, I knew I made the right decision. Too often I've ordered pork chops and I can never recall being asked for a cooking preference and responding, "dry as you can possibly make them, please." This was not the case at Cotton Patch Cafe. They were done perfectly, as were the veggies making this a more enjoyable meal than anticipated. I would recommend this selection not only for the flavor, but for the value. You would be hard pressed to find a pork chop dinner of this quality for the price anywhere else.
