08/29/06

Located along Lake Michigan, this elegant kitchen provides students from Washburne Culinary Institute with experience.

by Jennifer Olvera

The Scene
Located within the dramatic South Shore Cultural Center, the dining room is hushed as servers--many of whom are culinary students--cater to every whim. Waves crash along the nearby shore, affording great views through oversized windows. Awash in shades of green with latticework, botanical prints on walls and eye-catching candle centerpieces on tables, the focal point of the dining room is a namesake bird cage in the center of the room.

The Food
The romantic space features a seasonal menu of luxe, beautifully presented and well-prepared American fare. A vibrant, swirling kaleidoscope of red and yellow tomato gazpacho is accented by a fresh crab and cucumber quenelle, while the sherry vinegar-dressed baby spinach salad contrasts crispy hunks of chorizo with a lightly fried egg. Wild mushroom risotto accented with truffle oil is an earthy delight. Saffron-orange-marinated chicken with zippy roasted potatoes, green olives, fried basil, artichokes and oven-dried tomatoes benefits from the tang of lemon-infused oil.