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Chicago Restaurants 2008

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Crofton on Wells

535 N Wells St
Chicago, IL 60610
Phone: (312) 755-1790
Crofton on Wells
Price:
$$$
Cross Street:
Grand Avenue
Directions:
El: Brown Line to Merchandise Mart; Red Line to Grand; bus: 22 to Grand Ave; 65 to Wells St; 156 to Grand Ave
Hours:
Mon-Sat 5pm-10pm

Editorial Review for Crofton on Wells – by J.P. Anderson

The Scene
Decorated with stylish restraint by Crofton herself, the space is simple and modern. The candlelit room's walls are bare, save for a wavy symmetrical mirror. There's no excess, no flash--nothing to distract you from the restaurant's exceptional, seasonal American cuisine.

The Food
Crofton's touch is restrained but confident, from the playful zing of a vodka-spiked oyster shot with mango, to the earthy, dark flavor of sauteed wild mushrooms in a basket of fried leek. One scrumptious salad combines duck leg confit, warm fingerling potatoes and a hint of tangy goat cheese with mixed greens and a mild sherry garlic vinaigrette. And barbecued pork tenderloin is a dinner standout, two chunks of perfectly cooked meat glazed with sauce and drizzled with zesty poblano cream with corn pudding on the side. For dessert, extra-bittersweet chocolate cake is so intense it'll give you a head rush. For something milder, dip into the delicious, orange-zesty creme brulee Jean Banchet (an homage to Crofton's former mentor).

Editorial content is independent of paid advertisers. Any expenses are paid for by Citysearch.

Insider Tips

Save Money

A four-course prix fixe menu is offered from 5pm to 6:30pm Monday through Saturday, including appetizer, salad, entree and dessert for $45 including tax ($65 with two glasses of wine).

Know Before You Go

Vegan or vegetarian? Funky allergies? Inform your server of any special dietary needs, and the kitchen will be happy to oblige with meat-, dairy- or allergen-free dishes.

The Extras

Crofton's signature smoked apple chutney is available for sale in eight-ounce jars for $8.95 at the restaurant and online at the Crofton on Wells website.

User Reviews for Crofton on Wells

Citysearch (25), AOL CityGuide (3 ), OpenTable (1 ), MenuPages (1 ), Trip Advisor (3 ), All (33)

5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended

03/21/2008 Posted by tbclark

Crofton on Wells has not fallen into the "trendy" trap that so many other River North restaurants have. From the smaller intimate space to the focus on amazing food this place is now one of my favorites in Chicago. When we entered the hostess warned us that they had been cooking all day in the kitchen so be prepared to eat. She did not lie and we did not disappoint. Each course - johnnycakes, short ribs; texas "snapper", venison; provided great flavors that were not overly done for the sake of style and what is currently hot and trendy. Overall, amazing food in a simple neighboorhood type setting with very friendly service.

Pros: Service, Food, Low Key feel

Cons: none

3 Star Rating: Average

11/09/2006 Posted by sunshinefoodie

For every bad review there is always a good one. Crofton on Wells was by far one of the best dining experiences I have had in Chicago in a long time. It was very intimate, the service was great and they even called us by name when we got there. I highly recommend the crab cakes and the Chicken.

Pros: Service, location, intimate dining atmosphere

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Editor's Review

Suzy Crofton's namesake restaurant has quietly become one of the best in the city.  See the full editorial review.

Insider Tips

Save Money

A four-course prix fixe menu is offered from 5pm to 6:30pm Monday through Saturday, including appetizer, salad, entree and dessert for $45 including tax ($65 with two glasses of wine).

More Insider Tips

Restaurant Information

Smoking

  • No

Notable Chef

  • Suzy Crofton

Parking

  • Valet

Coat Check

  • Yes

Hours

  • Mon-Sat 5pm-10pm

Payment Types

  • Visa
  • Diners Club
  • American Express
  • Discover
  • MasterCard

Cuisines

  • American (Traditional)
  • Vegetarian

Meal Price

  • $$$

Amenities

  • Quiet
  • Private Rooms
  • Online Reservations
  • Notable Chef
  • Romantic Dining
  • Valet Parking
  • Business Dining
  • Outdoor Dining

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