North Pond

North Pond has been my top 3 favorite restaurant in Chicago, not only for spectacular dinners but also for a truly amazing brunch. Last Sunday we went for brunch with another couple. It was a gorgeous day out. We sat in the front room that offers amazing views of the pond, park and downtown skyline. Our server, Shannon, is probably one of the best we ever had...we always request him when dining at North Pond. He is knowledgeable, personable and shares our passion for food and wine. Truly an all around great guy. We started off with hand crafted cocktails...a take on summer sangria - made with fresh strawberries that have been soaked in late harvest riesling...so good! The restaurant offers a 3 course brunch for $33...with 4 choices in each category...you can't go wrong... I had the Crab/Avocado to start (peekytoe crab with avocado mousse, mint, radish, carrot broth) very refreshing...great starter Also had the Cucumber/Salmon (chilled cucumber melon soup with cured salmon, pumpernickel and serrano for the touch of heat) great take on a gazpacho My main dish was Shrimp/Asparagus (shrimp a la plancha, asparagus, beets, gnocchi,hazelnuts) also a perfect summer dish. For dessert we ordered one of each...my favorite was the Rhubarb/Orange (citrus rhubarb tart with oatmeal crumble and orange blossom ice cream! How cool is that... All the entrees were seasonal; just perfect! Bruce Sherman is a very talented chef and I've never had a bad dish there. I'm always surprised with the creativeness that goes into every plate that he puts out. We enjoyed ourseleves and will definitely be back to try the summer menu. Thanks again North Pond!

This is our favorite restaurant for special occasions. Though it's a bit pricey for us to do on a monthly basis, if we have friends in town, someone is treating or we're looking to celebrate, this is the place to go. Always using the freshest of ingredients, many of the local and/or organic, the chef manages to put together intriguing menus that reflect the best of what's presently available. Service is smooth, presentations are sharp and the flavors are always right on the money.