02/26/09

AMAZING, AMAZING, AMAZING

by almcd410

Service: Superior!!! From the moment you approach the hostess stand to the moment you prepare to exit and the manager asks you how you enjoyed your dining experience and introduces himself. Ranks as one of the best service experiences I have ever had in a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere.

Food: Unbelievable!!! Every morsel! Order odds and ends, order traditional salad and entree, do whatever you like. Oh, and if they hear chatter about sharing, the dish will arrive on split plates. We did not even ask! That is the magic of this place - as our server said 'it's a flexible menu. Just tell us what your palate desires'. On your first visit, definitely try a little bit of everything and don't miss the dessert tasting (pistachio brittle - what!!!??). Definitely notable: the skate entree; the chorizo mac and cheese side dish; cobia, crab salad & yellowfin tacos apps. YUM!

Value: CANNOT BEAT IT!

Overall: one of the best restaurants in Chicago without a doubt.

• Pros: The food. The service. The Value.
• Cons: None.

Celebrated chef and TV host Marcus Samuelsson is behind this seafood-centric spot in the Affinia Chicago hotel.

by Jennifer Olvera

To the left of the hotel lobby sits this intimate, sedate gem of a spot with oversized copper "ball" lights that illuminate walls dotted with sepia-toned, seafaring photos. A small lounge and bar with low, comfortable seating is backed by a glassed-in wine cellar. A raised communal table and back dining room allow glimpses into the open kitchen and raw bar. Dishes go beyond the ordinary to include salmon belly with lardo and artichoke and char with foie gras, beets and almonds. Entrees encompass an ever-changing array of fresh fish--grilled, roasted or steamed--paired with salsas, vinaigrettes and seasonal produce.

Photo by Jasmin Shah