10/23/06

Corner restaurant in Lincoln Square brings an upscale feel to the casual meal out.

by Contributor

The Scene
Brick walls, dark wood floors and chocolate tones tame the dazzling light streaming in from sunsets over kitty-corner Welles Park. An elegant curtain of white sheers separates the cozy bar from the dining room, where 20 tables are set with linens and topped with brown paper. Diners--easily spied from mirrors atop the wall of banquettes--are a diverse mix of well-heeled neighborhood types.

The Food
The contemporary American menu begins with appetizers like the tasty pulled short rib in a veal reduction and potatoes au gratin with goat cheese. The sides in particular elicit praise; a mouthwatering corn and scallion square with a hint of asiago cheese provides the perfect complement to the tender and moist seared duck, or a potato cake soaked in corn broth hiding under an organic chicken breast. Diners looking to expand their beer palate can ask the knowledgeable wait staff for recommendations from the connoisseur's selection of microbrews.

10/16/06

Great Food and Customer Service

by northcitygirl

I love this place! I went w/a good size group of people and we got the 4 course dinner paired w/4 wines for $44 - and it was amazing. To top it off - our service was phenomenal. The waiter was not intrusive; kept water glasses full; dirty dishes were gone right away and it was seemless. I also liked that they had "Just a Bite" option for dessert. Just the right size at a great price. The owner stopped by and he was a very gracious host and made us all feel very welcome. I will be back for sure.

09/21/06

Great food! Great Service!

by mrsbouquet

I tried the 4-course prix fixe menu with wine pairings and loved it all. All the courses were well executed and presented. The wine pairings were right on point! Didn't have any room for desert but will definitely try the next time I return. This is definitely one of my new stand-bys.

• Pros: Good food, good wine, good service!
• Cons: None

09/07/06

Fantastic food and fun!

by bd1234

Service was friendly and attentive. Food was fantastic. Presentations were beautiful and creative. Every wine that was paired with the meal was really good. And, it wasn't a bank-buster. Great place for dates or getting together with friends. I can't wait to go back--and, soon!

• Pros: food, wine, atmosphere
• Cons: I can't even think of one--it was that good!

08/30/06

Nice menu selections-executed well.

by illy7

Nice wine list, Rick Spiros in the kitchen is a GREAT thing!! Creative and daring, with staples that we all love (mac -n cheese), Chef Spiros does a wonderful job. Great neighborhood as well!