Uncommon Ground

Abby T.

Joined 4 days ago

I have been frequenting your establishment for over 2 years since we moved to this neighborhood. Your restaurant has been our favorite and most convenient. We spend over $100 a week with you guys. We have recently decided that we will no longer support your establishment. About a month ago my 21 month old son wanted to watch a male employee fold napkins. I held him at the bar so that he could see what was going on. The male behind the bar said that we had to vacate the premises. That babies were not allowed to be at the bar. My son was simply watching and this arbitrary rule is ridiculous and inconsistent with anything that we have experienced before. This evening my son wanted to look at the piano in the back room. The band had set up shop in the bar area and the back room was vacated. My son poked at the keys of this piano. A male employee came to us and said the piano is only for musicians and that we could not be there. Are you a family restaurant? It doesn’t sound like it. If you truly are a family restaurant then you must understand what families entail. Children. Children are curious. They like to look around. They are harmless. We will never bring out business to you again. We will now walk the extra few blocks to Heartland Café where they support families and children. We are so truly disappointed in your attitude and behavior toward such supportive customers.

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goacanow

Joined 5 years ago

Great Addition to Rogers Park. This was a much needed addition to Rogers Park! The food is out of this world and the martinis are even better. I really hope this place stays open as it is a much needed addition to our changing neighborhood. Make sure and try to Buffalo Rib eye or the Short ribs both are my favorite. For an appetizer make sure to splurge and get the Mac and Cheese you will not be disappointed.

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Valerie Moloney

Joined 8 years ago

The owners of the beloved Wrigleyville cafe tempt with an Edgewater eatery focused on sustainable ingredients and live music.. The Scene
This one-time supper club is more inviting than its Wrigleville sister with its boisterous dining rooms done in exposed brick, wood tabletops reclaimed from Jackson Park trees and a cozy fireplace that opens to both the bar and middle seating area. Judging from the amount of families in the place, Edgewater needed this, but its barnhouse chic theme appeals to couples, too. A small stage hosting live music acts provides a chill nightlife option.

The Food
The formula that keeps the Grace Street location thriving translates here to an organic menu driven by local ingredients. Brunch is a strong suit--from a cheesy, spinach- and pepper-stuffed chicken breakfast burrito to a grilled crostini piled with flaky buttermilk tuna salad and white cheddar. A dollop of cream tops hearty, steamy vegetarian chili brimming with red beans and zucchini. Helen's grilled chicken sandwich is the only misstep; the sprouts lack freshness.

Hits
Servers and hostesses don't miss a beat, remembering names and engaging in just the right amount of chat without sacrificing efficiency.

Misses
The bar serves as the restaurant's only waiting area, but if you have a stroller--as many diners from this neighborhood do-- forget about it. Leave the Graco outside. The ottomans and armchairs are quickly snatched up and leave little room for much else.

(Photo by Jasmin Shah)