03/23/09

Anthony Bourdain wasn't wrong!

by JackMeoff

I recently saw this place on Anthony Bourdain's "No Reservations" tv show. In it, he announced that their pork sandwich was "the best sandwich in America." I would have to digress a bit, as their Saltimbuca is every bit as savory and delicious.

No matter what you order, get some onion rings as a side. Also, make sure that you get a portion of their red onion and green tomato relish. It's simply amazing.

The service was okay, but nothing to write home about. I went twice in a 3 week period and I had a little bit better experience sitting at the bar.

As for drinks, this place is TOPS. You will not find better concoctions anywhere in Chicago.

• Pros: Awesome food
• Cons: a bit crowded

03/11/09

Interesting food, but a good "interesting."

by Jeffreybomb

My girlfriend and I saw this restaurant featured on "No Reservations." I had to have the Three Little Pigs sandwich. I've already recommended it to a number of friends who I think would enjoy its gargantuan nature.

We had onion rings for an appetizer; probably the best onion rings I've had in a long, long time. Breading was great, seasoned well, onions themselves were thick-cut but not overpowering.

The building itself shouldn't be something that takes away from a review (seriously, are you really there because you like walls, the ceiling, and the floor?). I can't understand why some people drop the rating because it's a little cramped. Big deal. Don't go when it's obviously going to be busy. Get over it.

The only thing stopping me from popping this restaurant up to a five-star rating was the staff. We sort of felt like we were those annoying neighbors that drop in unannounced at very inconvenient times. They're not very friendly (except the bartender, whom I can only assume is the owner).

If you can get by the waitstaff's indifference, it's a cool, unusual spot for some dinner.

• Pros: Easy to get to, good food. Neat building. Blue Line stop practically dumps you at the front door.
• Cons: Waitstaff indifference.

08/03/08

If you like to drink this is the place. If you like good food, forget it.

by soulbait

First you must be a drinker to enjoy this place. if you are looking for a nice place to relax and get a good meal, don't come here. This is not a kid friendly place, so keep the kids home. Not much fun when you are trying to eat and you have all these people drinking around you and using not so nice language and bumpoing into you and your table. Pass on this place unless you are coming here to drink. Bar style restaurant.

• Pros: Nothing - will not go back.
• Cons: Must be a drinker to enjoy this place.