Mercat a la Planxa
Chicago, IL 60605
Phone: (312) 765-0524
- Price:
- $$$$
- Directions:
- Bus: 6 to Balbo
- Hours:
- Sun-Thu 6am-3pm, 5pm-11pm, Fri-Sat 6am-3pm, 5pm-12am
Editorial Review for Mercat a la Planxa – by Fred Schlatter
Photo by Jasmin Shah
In Short
Mercat follows the lead of the Blackstone's draw-dropping overhaul, so in the spirit of upgrade, the space received soaring etched-glass panels, miles of mosaics and a shocking expanse of hanging fixtures responsible for the two-story room's flattering glow. Chef Jose Garces keeps up the fireworks from the giant exposed kitchen. Catalan dishes range from safe bets like Cocas--yeasty dough topped with things like manchego, mushrooms and artichokes--to more adventurous items, like Morcilla-dense blood sausage that arrives fragrant and still sizzling. The "Planxa" part of the equation refers to grilled-to-order items like Uruguayan Filet and head-on prawns.
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Insider Tips
The ExtrasCall two days in advance for the whole roasted suckling pig ($45 per person). The sight of the whole beast hoisted through the room is enough to inspire medieval poetry.
Where to SitBook a private table up on The Veranda, an open tier that looks down to the frenzy below. There's no extra fee--just make sure to call a couple of weeks out.
What to DrinkThe wine program features plenty of Spanish gems perfect for the assertive food but start with fresh cocktails like the De La Boqueria--gin, pomegranate liqueur, fresh sour and mint leaves.
Know Before You GoThose prone to grumble might site the closeness of some tables, but truth told there isn't a bad seat in the house. If you reserve early in the week specify a table in the center of the floor--those banked along the sides tend to be more tightly packed.
User Reviews for Mercat a la Planxa
08/19/2008 Posted by TheAFYears
By far one of the worst meals I have had in this city. Service was SLOW! The food was cold! The prices are out of this world. One shining spot is the atmosphere, energizing. I can not believe how many positive reviews this place gets. There was 6 in our group and no one wants to eat there ever again.
Pros: Atmosphere
Cons: Too expensive for what you get!
06/11/2008 Posted by qamarin
Check this place out. I was simply delighted - where to start. Chef Garcés culinary talent shows: food was delicious! Loved the higos con almendra, cocas de costillas de ternera, and the scallops a la planxa, . Our waiter was very friendly, cognizant of wines, grapes, and regions - they have a great selection of Spanish wines. We arrived over 30 mins early, so we had time to relax and enjoy some sangria on the downstairs bar/lounge. We were treated very well by the staff and left with a desire to return as often as possible. Great way to start the Saturday evening!
