Comfort food rules

Now that the meat heaven that is Empress Tavern is open, it may be easy to forget that just upstairs, good food still reigns. Mother's menu is seasonal but the chili verde with roasted potatoes ($12) seems to have earned a permanent spot. And rightfully so: This comfort food staple is deliciously filling with piquant verde sauce, hearty pinto beans, chewy hominy and gooey chunks of mozzarella cheese. Pro tip: Order it topped with a poached egg for extra yum. Pair with whatever beer is on tap and maybe a smoked cheddar biscuit with honey ($6) if you're feeling particularly hungry or decadent. Or both. 1023 K Street, www.mothersacramento.com.