Moto
Chicago, IL 60607
Phone: (312) 491-0058
- Price:
- $$$$
- Cross Street:
- Sangamon Street
- Best of Citysearch:
- Fine Dining 2005
- Hours:
- Mon-Sat 5pm-10pm
Editorial Review for Moto – by Robyn Galbos
The Scene
Decor is minimal: earth-toned walls and carpeting, crisp white linens and almond-colored banquettes lining both sides of the dining room. Globally flavored electronica plays at conversation-friendly levels, while gourmets and food adventurers marvel at artful dishes. Knowledgeable--not stuffy--servers in black lab coats deftly guide patrons through each creative dish.
The Food
Asian influences surface throughout the four always-changing tasting menus. Fennel presented four ways includes purees painted on the plate, gelled cubes, a savory ice and fennel candy. A delicately flavored sashimi course has bites of salmon, scallops and hamachi alongside a cup of coconut milk and black squid ink. Chef Homaro Cantu's interest in science is evident in many dishes. Whimsical Squeezes--eyedropper-like pipettes filled with purees of ingredients like Swiss chard and bacon--pack a flavorful punch. Pacific bass is baked tableside to melt-in-your-mouth perfection in a futuristic-looking transparent polymer box.
Editorial content is independent of paid advertisers. Any expenses are paid for by Citysearch.
Insider Tips
Know Before You GoMenu options include four, seven and ten courses, plus a gastronomic tasting menu. The restaurant requires that everyone at a table agree on one menu. Accommodations are made for vegetarians.
What to DrinkThe well-rounded wine list features a range of prices by the bottle and glass. You may also order the wine progression to match each course of your meal.
The ExtrasThe restaurant's front lounge area features specialty cocktails, 30 wines by the glass, and eclectic small plates. Also, a private dining room is available for parties of up to 30 people.
User Reviews for Moto
01/18/2008 Posted by tackle71
We did the ten course tasting menu and found Chef Cantu's food was excellent from beginning to end. The highlights of the night were the Wahoo, the unique take on Pork and Beans and the Apple Pie ala mode Truffles. The food was prepared using unique techniques (liquid nitrogen anyone) that meant your eyes were telling you different things than your taste buds. Overall definitely the most fun we have ever had eating out.
Pros: Great Service. Unique food
Cons: Iffy part of town
11/19/2007 Posted by bocuse1876
I must start by saying that I am a Chef & Culinary Instructor, so I understand the preparations, techniques, and machinery used. The skill level needed to execute this experience is nothing short of scholarly and don't think "average diners" get it. I saw some not so hot reviews and have to ask what they were thinking. Go to Benihanas - This is a cutting edge, gastronomic playground with all of the bells and whistles. My experience was on par with El bulli, Alinea, and the French Laundry and yes, I have been to all three. Where they might be different in style, design, and mssion - They are some of the world's best and Chef Cantu lived up to this high level. Bravo Chef and entire staff!!!!!!!
Pros: The entire experience
Cons: The patrons that do not understand the operation
Users Like You Also Viewed
Brasserie Ruhlmann
500 W Superior St
Chicago, IL 60610
Otom
951 W Fulton Mkt
Chicago, IL 60607
