Trotter's To Go

10/13/04

Renowned Chicago restaurateur expands his culinary craft with haute-to-tote cuisine for busy gourmets.

by Jennifer Olvera at Citysearch

The Scene
Charlie Trotter's innovative approach intermingles exotic, Ravinia-ready cuisine with a comfortable neighborhood feel, setting it apart from other upscale epicurean delis cropping up throughout the city and suburbs. Considering the dazzling ingredients that go into every dish, a snooty staff might be warranted; instead, employees are approachable and knowledgeable, and encourage taste tests.

The Goods
Organically raised meat and game roast in a wood-burning rotisserie, resulting in tasty items like tamarind-glazed muscovy duck and lavender-roasted free-range chicken. Fresh topiaries and flowers and a color-coded wine selection--grouped into categories like "Muscular, Meaty Reds" and "Bubbles"--set the tone for romance on the run. As expected, Trotter's own luxe line of sauces and kitchenware is available, but you'll also find a generous selection of goods and cookbooks from other notable chefs.