Chowning's only serves "gambols" (appetizers) in the evening. There are no reservations and there is always a wait. There was a street fire right in front if the restaurant, which is where we waited and kept warm. There are no private tables unless your group is big enough. You get seated with those near you on the waiting list.
The establishment is crowded, loud and busy. The servers seemed to be stretched pretty thin. There were two minstrels who provided a couple of songs during our stay. The menu is quite limited, but there are peanuts waiting for you when you sit down. Some folks were just stopping there for a drink before an evening event in the historic section or dinner at one of the other taverns.