I don't have any pictures to post since it's been disgusting in Chicagoland for the past few weeks. Poor kids are stir crazy and us adults are, well, just crazy.
Anyway, I still wanted to write something, so thought I'd post a quick review of some of the restaurants we've visited as of late. If you live in the city, I always think it's helpful to hear what everyone is raving - or ranting - about in terms of food. And to help with judging, I'm instituting what I'll call the "M Scale." From "meh" to "mmmmmm", here are a few of our recent picks and pans!
Fish Bar
This is a relatively new addition to our 'hood and a place, I'm happy to say, both Dan and I enjoyed. As expected, they specialize in seafood and have a rotating seasonal menu. The overall atmosphere is remniscent of an East Coast oyster bar, complete with Westminster crackers and Tabasco.
Rating on the M Scale: Mmmmmm!
Grahamwich
I've been excited to try this new Graham Elliot outlet for awhile, but am sad to report that I found the actual dining experience disappointing. It's like Elliot spent an afternoon concepting sandwiches, slapped them onto a chalk board and left town. The tuna sandwich I split with my friend was decent enough, but the grilled cheese we both agreed was sub-par. I mean...how do you mess up a grilled cheese?!? That being said, they have truffle oil popcorn that I'm dying to try, although I think that's sort of cheating since adding truffle oil to pretty much anything makes it delicious.
Rating on the M Scale: Meh
Paris Club
I was fortunate enough to enjoy a delicious meal here a few weeks ago with my good friend, Casey. Paris Club is in the space once occupied by Brasserie Joe, which I really enjoyed. It's a fairly straightforward and expected French offering, but the sea scallops I had were absolutely delicious. Not to mention the frisee salad...amazing. I think this place will do well, as evidenced by the crazy crowds we experienced when we went.
Rating on the M Scale: Double Mmmmm
