Arrived as a walk-in parent of 4 on a Friday night, waited 1.5 hours but we were surprised to even…read moreget in! Sat out on the patio which was beautiful. The inside is beautifully designed, but the patio was perfect for a summer night. Ordered a round of cocktails and all were well done, the Calabrian dirty martini was actually spicy, which I love! Though, not sure if I tasted the hazelnut in the hazelnut espresso martini but I liked that it wasn't sticky sweet like most espresso martinis. Ordered the panzanella salad which was outstanding, the dressing as so tangy and the bread soaked it up without getting soggy, and the heirloom tomatoes were perfectly ripe. Sleeper hit for sure. Mozzarella sticks were fine, nothing special. We got 3 pastas: farfalle primavera, gnudi pomodoro, and spicy vodka stuffed shells. The gnudi are worth the hype - so pillowy and different. The stuffed shells had a little bit of crisp on the edges which I loved, and the veg on the farfalle was generous. We split 1 four cheese pizza, they are small but very flavorful! You can taste the quality of ingredients for sure. The sauce was maybe sweet-leaning, which I prefer in tavern style pizza! Got 2 desserts, the tiramisu and chocolate cake. Swapped the vanilla gelato for coconut per our server's suggestion and so glad we did! The cake was rich but the mousse layers kept it from being too rich - the slice was a little small, though. The tiramisu was delicious, great balance of espresso flavors and smooth marscapone cream and the cookie on top gave it some nice texture. Great spot, friendly service, very vegetarian friendly, and worth the hype. Definitely will be back!!

Food gets 5 stars. Very unusual but delicious crispy rice squares with tuna, , tuna crudo also…read moreexcellent. The super thin & crispy pizzas were quite good. We had several. We'd go back for the appetizers alone. We shared 3 entrees among 6 of us.... the chicken parm, the cavatelli bolognese and the spicy rigatoni. All were excellent. The cocktails were small & average. Not much of a wine list but the bottle we ordered was good. The restaurant is small so reservations are a must. We made ours well in advance. Perhaps due to size the noise level is an issue especially when the volume of the music is also on the loud size. Hard to carry on a conversation. The service was knowledgeable, efficient & gracious until.....until it wasn't. Dishes had been whisked away quickly as we had appetizers & entrees. We felt a bit rushed. We ordered a post dinner drink as we were having dessert and were told we could not as they needed the table & we had to leave!! They weren't messing around. We got the bums rush before we could fully consume the last of what we had in front of us. We had driven an hour & 15 minutes to meet our friends in the city to catch up & enjoy an evening which was soured by being rushed out the door. All in all fantastic food but quite noisy & don't expect a leisurely pace or to linger over espresso & dessert. They won't hesitate to tell you to leave. Never had that happen anywhere in the decades we have been frequent restaurant diners.

So as a first-timer, I was absolutely delighted that Raphael, the maître d' (well that's a bit of a…read moreformality that's honestly inapplicable in this instance, but humor me), held our table though we were late--very late due to Spot Hero getting us locked inside a garage, but that's a different review! The rocky start continued when our waitress, Martha, was far less than attentive and when arriving at our table 5-10 minutes after we were seated advised that BOTH of the entrées we wanted were sold out--at 6PM! After I thought about it perhaps that's a testament to how good those selections must be--Lamb Chops and Baja Mariscada (fire-roasted shrimp, mussels and maine lobster, smoked and lemongrass infused with lime zest, herbs). I'll return and revisit a review of those dishes. However, "Leña Brava -- 'ferocious firewood'- celebrates Mexican dishes cooked over hardwood fire," is spot on in accurately describing the restaurant, its warm friendly vibe and its remarkably delicious food! (Okay so it took a minute but just wait--your mouth will water in anticipation of dining here). The appetizers and entrées alike were incredible. I suggest that you must have the Leña Guacamole which comes with wood-roasted tomatillos, serranos, and salsa macha. I had BOTH the Chilled Oysters (appetizer) and Roasted Oysters (small plate) and urge you to order both if you're a fan of oysters. Finally, the Fire-Roasted Plantains with crema and queso fresco was the best I've eaten in Chicago. The Bone In Pork Chops had a char on them that I could eat in-perpetuity and the medium-rare Steak & Frites (crispy fries perfectly seasoned) had us sharing plates the presentation was so divine! But the star dish of the night was the Coal-Fired Tacos Gobernador -- "lobster, shrimp, Chihuahua cheese, avocado-habanero salsa, flour tortillas, Oaxacan pasilla butter." Really outstanding and reasonably priced cocktails and wine -- list of offerings pictured with this review -- including an incredibly unique offering called "Papi Diablo:" real del valle tequila, jalapeño, elderflower, ginger, hibiscus and lemon. The 2022 Palafox Pionero Chenin Blanc and 2023 Henry Lurton Sauvignon Blanc, both from Baja, California were well balanced and flavorful. The willingness to make not on the menu mocktails - "Not a Margarita" and "Spicy Fruit Cart" - was a welcomed accommodation, but PLEASE adjust the price when you cut the alcohol guys--otherwise you're just price gouging your customers! The most pleasant surprise was from the "Nightcap Menu" ESPRESSO MARTINI / vodka (or tequila which I don't think constitutes a martini but what do I know), espresso, and coffee liquor. This was a star cocktail despite the fact that they don't sell coffee here!!!!! A BIG NO NO for a quality dining establishment. Finishing with one of the best desserts I've ever eaten saved this restaurant's fifth star!!!! The Tiramisu Tres Leches was moist, sweet, balanced and clearly freshly made in-house. TO DIE FOR!

My experience at Lena Brava was lack luster and quite confusing overall…read more Randolph street is already packed and takes a valiant effort and wallet to participate in. For instance- after looking around my mother was the oldest young lady in the restaurant. There were booths open ... why sit older women in the high tops and not the open booth - only to eventually sit two men at the booth and we're a party of four. Not the bet decision. Then one of the biggest faux paus happened which was a steak at the incorrect temperature. What was even more disappointing was being asked did my guest want to throw it back on the grill with the chimichurri sauce already on. Mind you the bill is easily at 300 for four people with no tax or tip yall. Then knowing that you can see if the steak was cooked correctly before it gets to the table and you still sit it down is wild- and only more so because this is not a budget dinner. Of course the timing threw the dinner and temperature off for everyone and there was another horribly late dish - corn lol smh. Our waitress was kind and inattentive. The most interesting aspect was being asked if we needed anything and the whole table stared at her for 30-45 secs with a bunch of empty plates and I had to ask "ummm hey can we have these removed". She should've been the one to offer instead of me asking. Everything else was cooked properly but my fingerling potatoes were tastier than the octopus that sat on top. I can't say I'm up at night craving any particular flavor from here Last but not least after messing up the steak and removing it from the bill.. late corn , lackluster service ... there was an additional 3.25 % restaurant surcharge I had to asked to be removed. I understand bad nights. But there was literally nothing to hold on to here. Other than it's a cute spot.

We have been fans of Rose Mary since the beginning, thoroughly enjoying it as an alternative to a…read moreMonteverde when you want something more elevated and unique. After three or four stellar visits, we had a fairly rocky fifth that kept us away for the better part of two years. I'm glad to say that appears to have been just a brief bump in the road, and that Rose Mary remains an excellent spot for Italian/Croatian fusion. Everything is fresh and many dishes are seasonal, like the wonderful eggplant fritters with pesto dipping sauce. The batter on the eggplant wasn't too thick, nor was the fry too oily. Similarly excellent was the peach stracciatella, a combo I've never had before but will now crave, the brightness really shining through. But, the true star of the show was another seasonal dish, the chitarra with crab, corn, and truffle. This was a perfect dish, with every ingredient balancing each other out wonderfully. Just when the crab and sauce might be getting too much, you're hit with a pop of fresh corn. When you want a little different flavor, the umami of the truffle kind of steps in from the background. Really, really good. A very nice wine list, attentive service, lovely patio, and fair prices round out an excellent experience.

Came here while on a trip to Chicago and absolutely loved the food. We came here on a whim and…read morewanted to splurge a little on our last night. Ambiance: Gorgeous and very open interior! The tables for 2 are small but dishes are split into courses as you order so it helps! Service: the front of house and servers were attentive and kind! Food: the lamb saddle was definitely a standout, it is a great size for sharing, I definitely wouldn't eat it alone. The pastas had great texture and flavor - I normally don't reach for Italian food or seek it out but this place may have changed my opinion on that. The street corn was also amazing, though messy to eat. I'd love to go back and try more Croatian dishes since most of these were more Italian!

Wow. Wasn't sure what to expect walking in. Didn't read any reviews, just saw that it was a…read moreformer chef from Oriole. In any case, food was excellent. Really interesting dishes with great flavours. It's a fixed menu where you have options at two of the courses. My friend and I shared everything so we go to try different dishes. But there was a third main we wanted and they let us add it on. Our server Larry did an excellent job. Checked in us enough without making it feel like he was hovering. He also had a good sense of humor which is always appreciated. Drinks were tasty. My only issue was I pressed two drinks, and the first was the old fashioned and it was like three sips. The second drink was a super heavy pour and I was feeling it after drinking it. So they need some consistency there. Will for sure go back. I do expect this place to get popular, and it's not big, so go while you can.

Wow! I had a great experience here for my 1st wedding anniversary dinner. They just opened not too…read morelong ago but I have a feeling they will do good in West Loop. Dining area offers a pre-fixe 5 course menu for $145 or a la carte. 2/5 courses are chosen by you so there is room for choices. The bar area is for walk-ins with a different menu offered. We were greeted with a card wishing us a happy anniversary signed by staff which was very thoughtful. I got the Mallorcan highball to drink. Their drink menu goes from lowest to highest spirit which is helpful. I wanted something light and fruity to drink and the Mallorcan highball is exactly that! Def recommend for the girlys. Course 1: The first bites come on a wooden lazy susan which was so cute. I could've eaten like 20 of those bites. Our fav was the sweet corn bite - tastes like an elote. Course 2: We both chose the Hokkaido scallop. Very light and refreshing. Came with more pieces of fish than I thought. Presentation was great! Course 3: This was a pasta dish with a chicken broth. Came with a grain toast which was great. The pasta paired perfectly with the broth. Very savory. Course 4: My husband chose the ribeye and I got the quail. Both were delicious! The texture and flavor of the quail was top tier!! This course also came with a side of white beans from Italy. Course 5: This was a blueberry cheesecake dessert with a corn cookie and yuzu ice cream. Amazing!! They also brought out mini strawberry cookies. To end the night, we got sent home with some miso sesame snickerdoodle cookies. Such a treat!!

We had a fantastic family dinner at Bracero. We did early evening with a five camera reservation…read moreand the waiter was very good with our kids. Food is excellence.

From beginning to end, everything just hit. Shana was AMAZING and took such great care of us…read more We went all in: Hamachi Aguachile, Wagyu Beef Tartare, Brazilian Fried Chicken, Smoked Chicken, Braised Pork Shank and the Coal-Roasted Sweet Potato. Every dish brought something different, and there wasn't a weak link on the table. The flavors were bold, creative and layered without feeling like they were trying too hard. Brasero was probably our all-around favorite restaurant of the entire Chicago trip - and considering how many incredible places we ate, that is saying a lot.

Came by for dinner the other night and it was a tasty experience. S.K.Y. is a Contemporary…read morerestaurant located on the ground level of an apartment building across from Lincoln Park. Valet parking is available and the bus stops a block away, the 156 and 151. Dining is available at the bar, dining room, or on the patio. Check-in with the host is inside the building. Made a reservation and my table was ready upon arrival. They seem to have a chef's counter although I'm not sure how to book that... I did get a weird text, unsure if it was from this restaurant, that the chefs table wasn't available. Was seated at the table in front of the bar, which was rather bothersome with the volume of people walking by and hanging out at the bar. S.K.Y. is featured in the Michelin guide. Vibe from the staff were lit although I found the service rushed, despite the restaurant not being full. Started off with the tuna Tartare 'lumpia' and this was served cold. The egg roll shell was crispy and the ends will topped with chives. This was quite tasty. Moved on to the Maine lobster dumplings and they were quite tasty. Each of the 4 dumplings had plenty of lobster and the buttery sauce that complemented this was heavenly. The S.K.Y. Chicken was highly recommended by my waiter. This was a boneless chicken thigh fried skin on and fried with a popcorn chicken-like batter. This was served with some corn, a creamy sauce, along with some fried basil. The banana Budino that everyone was raving about I didn't fully understand. There was quite a bit of banana and custard that was topped with a ton of nuts... $110/head after tax, gratuity, 3% credit card surcharge for a surprisingly rushed dinner service.

I went here years ago at their old location. It is now located inside of The Belden Stratford…read moreacross from Mon Ami Gabi. They serve Asian and French inspired dishes. The service was great and our waitress was attentive. To drink, we ordered an old fashioned l'orange and a strawberry-rhubarb cosmo. Their cocktail menu is basic but they are known for their wine and have a whole wine and sake menu. They recommend ordering everything at once so they can pace it out. To start, I chose the Sichuan ricotta that came with the garlicky flatbread. The flatbread was so delicious and soft and it was definitely garlicky! I didn't find the ricotta to be spicy at all really. For our entrees, we shared the braised beef short rib and the fried chicken. They are known for their fried chicken that comes with a habanero butter and creamed corn. Personally I liked the short rib better. For dessert, we ordered the brioche bread putting that they make from scratch so you have to order it with everything else. This was probably my favorite thing we ordered it was soo good! We also ordered a scoop of chocolate cherry ice cream--yummy.

Fantastic service! Would never assume this was a newer restaurant with how on top of things the…read morestaff was. Extremely accommodating, friendly, and attentive staff. Food was 10/10. The portion sizes are pretty decent, quality is noticeably great and the prices are extremely reasonable for a Boka restaurant. I would recommend dining here for anyone I know. Looking forward to coming back!

The space always looked cool - so it's been on my list for a while even though it is now the Ives…read more So the ambiance did not disappoint, old school vibe with dark interiors. We ordered the crab dip, my husband ordered the French dip & I had the shrimp. The shrimp had great flavor although I didn't love the texture of the corn pudding. The French dip was great but the fries were the star. I have to take a moment to call out the staff. Quite possibly the friendliest & most attentive staff I've encountered outside a Michelin star restaurant. We'll definitely return.

The atmosphere immediately made a strong impression, with sharp decor and a comfortable vibe, and…read morethe service stayed quick and attentive throughout the meal. The appetizers were decent but didn't stand out. The salad had good flavor, although the chips softened pretty fast and lost the crunch that would have made it better. The naan was solid, but charging separately for the spread felt unnecessary. The entrées were where things picked up--the curried shrimp had excellent flavor despite the rice being slightly too firm, and the branzino was cooked well with exceptionally tender mussels. The sticky date cake stole the show. It absolutely lived up to its reputation and ranks as one of the best desserts I've had.

Walked in at 7:30 on a Wednesday (my birthday!) and got seated at the bar very quickly!! Call it…read morebirthday luck! Each dish was delicious. The naan came hot and seasoned to the max. It pairs well with chutney yogurt spread. Fish and chips were hot and crispy with no residual oil. Delicious chunky chips as a bed. Steak and ale pie was, of course, the main event. It did not let us down. Flaky crust with perfectly cooked, juicy meat and gluttonous marrow? Call that my death row meal. Not pictured: sticky date cake: 10/10 & key lime pie 8/10