03/03/08

Great Addition to Rogers Park

by goacanow

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.

• Pros: Food and Service here are top knotch
• Cons: The food is not your standard comfort food make sure you keep an open mind it is worth it!

02/11/08

The owners of the beloved Wrigleyville cafe tempt with an Edgewater eatery focused on sustainable ingredients and live music.

by Valerie Moloney

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)