Via Ventuno
(312) 328-1198
2110 S Wabash Ave
(at 21st Street)
Chicago,
IL
60616
41.854116
-87.625496
Neighborhoods: Near South Side, Central
Hours:
Mon-Thu 5pm-10pm
Fri-Sat 5pm-11pm
Sun 4pm-9pm
Price:
$$$$
Last updated 6.27.09
What People Are Saying About Via Ventuno
The Owner
Via Ventuno
Owner
Chicago's ROOM21, an American Bistro, is Kleiner's interpretation of a parlor-bordello, mixing modern materials with European accoutrements. Through an eclectic array of antiques and hand-made pieces, he puts a sexy spin on the building's checkered past.
ROOM21's 6,000 square foot interior welcomes 180 guests for dinner and cocktails, while the 6,000 square foot luxurious European garden patio seats 120. The garden is enhanced by oversized ceramic pottery, 40 foot evergreen trees, brickwork, rolled canopies, metal entrance gates and cream stone fireplace.
Executive Chef Fred Ramos (Pili Pili, Printer's Row, Gioco) presents American Contemporary cuisine for dinner. Stop in for a delectable meal and enjoy the historic ambiance.
The Editor
Contributor
Citysearch
-- CLOSED FOR RECONCEPTING --
Jerry Kleiner transformed a former Al Capone brewery in his signature fashionista-fantasia style: Gonzo damask patterns on the walls, French fabric chairs, a jumbo zebra-framed bar mirror and bordello-on-Venus drum lighting in fuchsia and chartreuse. French doors open onto a lovingly landscaped garden oasis. Light-handed New American updates tweak straightforward steakhouse fare. Pricey prime steaks pair with sauce choices, notably a light, tart balsamic jus. Crisp arancini-style crab risotto cakes swell with succulent crabmeat, sauteed corn and arborio rice, their plate drizzled with Old Bay aioli. Deep-fried chocolate "beignets" with chocolate and peanut butter sauces are great fun.
Photo by Jasmin Shah
User Reviews
Dundies
January 18, 2009
Very typical for a Kleiner restaurant, great food, service, and the decor was awesome. We have been to Room 21 twice, both times sitting in the outdoor patio in the summer, it makes you feel like you are on a mini-vacation away from the city. Both times the service has been great and the food outstanding! The server has explained each dish with great detail, and I mean all dishes. Went there for a romantic dinner with my wife the first time and with a large group the second, which included a two year old, the servers were very willing to accomodate for the little guy which was appreciated! The manager was great and even took us on a private tour of the Capone vault. I will have to say that I was disappointed the second time around with the dessert selection after the departure of their pastry chef, I MISS THE RED VELVET CAKE!! That is the only complaint that I would have, everything else is great!
read full review
Lynnchicago
June 03, 2008
I went here with a group of 12 people on a Tuesday night and the service was AWFUL (although there were probably only 4 other parties there) !!!! The waiter did not come by to refill our water... got our orders wrong... The food was ok.. nothing really spectacular - I definately will not be going here again.
read full reviewAnonymous
February 04, 2008
I ventured into Room21 during a recent visit to Chi-town. The service was awful and the wait time was unbelievable and I only ordered a salad. This place needs to reevalute their purpose in the restaurant business.
read full reviewThe Details on Via Ventuno
Fun Fact:
This building was raided by Eliot Ness ("The Untouchables") on June 13, 1930, supposedly capturing 200,000 gallons of booze.
The Extras:
Ask for a visit to Capone's claustrophobic escape passage, unearthed during construction, that led onto 21st St. (the door was marked Room21).
Where to Sit:
For intimacy, request the small, cozy back dining room.
What to Drink:
Numerous premium champagnes by the glass are a highlight of the broad, moderately-priced wine list.
Category:
Payment Methods:
American Express, Visa, Discover, MasterCard
Restaurant Special Features:
Local Favorite, Special Occasion Dining, Celeb Hangout, Fine Dining, Outdoor Dining, People Watching, Business Dining, Date Spot, Group Dining, Fireplace, Bar Scene
Cuisine:
Message from Via Ventuno
- Contemporary Cuisine
- Former Capone Brewery
- European Garden Patio
Chicago's ROOM21, an American Bistro, is Kleiner's interpretation of a parlor-bordello, mixing modern materials with European accoutrements. Through an eclectic array of antiques and hand-made pieces, he puts a sexy spin on the building's checkered past.
ROOM21's 6,000 square foot interior welcomes 180 guests for dinner and cocktails, while the 6,000 square foot luxurious European garden patio seats 120. The garden is enhanced by oversized ceramic pottery, 40 foot evergreen trees, brickwork, rolled canopies, metal entrance gates and cream stone fireplace.
Executive Chef Fred Ramos (Pili Pili, Printer's Row, Gioco) presents American Contemporary cuisine for dinner. Stop in for a delectable meal and enjoy the historic ambiance.
