1899
brings approachable fine dining
1899 Bar & Grill | 307 W Dupont Ave.
F
GAIL G. COLLINS
ollowing through on the motto, “high altitude, no attitude,” with proper execution, 1899 Bar and Grill won top spots as Best Overall Restaurant, Wait Staff, Wine List and Fine Dining. Those are high marks, worthy of the care, consideration and oversight that translate into delicious dining. But 1899 is more than a lovely venue with global cuisine; it is an integrated product of Northern Arizona University’s Hotel and Restaurant Management Program. While the staff is not comprised exclusively of program students, the liv-
10 Best of Flag | 2021
ing-learning lab offers business career experience with some yummy benefits, like a meal provided daily to each employee, regardless of how many days they work in a week. That hits the spot. Moreover, a position at the front or back of the house instills accountability, responsibility and hard work as the best training for life in general. Overall, 1899 provides, “a window into campus life,” according to Casey Fisher, director of planning and marketing campus dining. Situated at downtown’s boundary, 1899 is in, “a permeable position between the community and campus.” It also compliments the High County Con-
ference Center and Drury Inn as far as services. Despite winning the fine dining category, 1899’s team pushes back. “We’re fighting the fine-dining aspect in favor of being approachable, palatable and value-priced,” Fisher explained. The ambiance at 1899 is stylish brick with wood accents and mid-century clean lines, notable in the various-sized drum shades. Enormous, metallic-hued banquettes proportionally anchor the high-rise space, and a wall of glass invites seasonal views and copious natural light. The showpiece twostory copper fireplace is original to
