Chicago T.
About
We have been in the Chicago food scene for years but have been waiting in the shadows until the time was right to share our passion and knowledge. There are of several contributors here at the Trough but all are seasoned veterans of Chicago and certainly eating. We are all excited to share and are not here to put only negative vibes into cyberspace as some critics seem to enjoy. We hope you like the tips and reviews and get out and enjoy new places and flavors in Chicago. Belly Up!!
Recent Reviews
Kiss me on the Beef Cheeks
Restaurant: Next
For a restaurant that has had more hype than a certain NBA player moving to Miami, this Grant Achatz creation is doing a much better job of living up to it.
Don't get me wrong there was certainly a dish or two on the menu that was an 'air ball' for me but overall it was a slam-dunk. (I'll stop the corny puns now)
Next covers every last detail from the Thai newspaper place mat to the authentic Thai rap music. You have to remember that authenticity is their main goal, not being another Alenia so don't expect every course to be the most amazing thing you've ever had in your life.
I personally loved the Tom-Yum soup and Panang Beef Cheeks. The street food was good but you can find it elsewhere in Chicago. The cheeks were rich and fell apart with the touch of a spoon. The curry sauce was from an old recipe most likely stolen from a monk. The two were cooked separately and combined at service creating flavor memories I can still feel 2 weeks later. I've never had anything like the Thai Beef Cheeks and I'm not sure I ever will again... and that is the appeal of Next.
Con: The wine and alcohol pairings are maybe the most overpriced deal in town. I would much rather pay more for the ticket and less for the pairings. The non-alcoholic should just be included in the price as it was mostly juice and mixers.
Service
Amazing
Decor
Modern
Dishes
Beef Cheeks and Soup
Sides and Sauce
Restaurant: Chicago Q
Resurrecting the space that was once Tsunami sushi, the southern decor and menu are perfectly aligned.
We go for the sides and pulled pork more than the ribs. The ribs are good but a bit pricey for the 'competition ribs'.
For starters, I hate pickles but have found a love of the pickles and chips served to munch while you decide on your entree. They are basically a free appetizer as we typically get a few rounds.
The go-to order is the Pulled Pork Shoulder with Corn Bread on the side, Kobe baked beans and occasionally the fries. The portions are hearty and the Kobe beans have a lot of Kobe brisket.
All the BBQ comes with all 4 sauces on the side and we suggest mixing them up (Spicy and N. Carolina Vinegar).
There is an upstairs for entertaining larger groups and they have a large selection of whiskey, wine and beer.
Service
Great
Decor
Southern
Dishes
Kobe Brisket Baked Beans, Pulled Pork
Hanger Steak
Restaurant: Ruxbin
We have been a few times to this small restaurant on the border of Wicker Park and West Town. The inside space has a cool design but getting a seat can be a challenge.
If you visit Ruxbin and don't get the Hanger Steak, you will probably think this is just an okay place and what's the big deal? The flavor and tenderness of this low-grade steak will stand up to any steak in the city. It's a bold claim but try it for yourself.
Other good items include: garlic fries, flat bread and pork loin.
They have one of the coolest bathrooms in the city as well... don't get lost in there.
Service
Great
Decor
Interesting,Design,Small
Dishes
Hanger Steak, Pork Loin, Flat Bread, Garlic Fries
One word: Snert
Restaurant: Vincent
From the owners of Home Bistro in Boystown, this Andersonville spot is billed as Dutch New American. The space is cute and great for date night.
Apparently the Dutch know the best way to cook peas and it's called Snert. You must get the Haddock with Snert. The rest of the table will have plate envy so be ready.
The Lamb burger is also excellent as BBQ Pork Ribs. You don't see a lot of Indonesian BBQ pork ribs in Chicago and the flavor is amazing.
Snert.
Service
Great
Decor
Quaint,Good
Dishes
Haddock with Snert, BBQ Pork Ribs, Lamb Burger
Underrated Soundtrack
Restaurant: Avec
When someone talks about what they would eat as their final meal on earth, they typically include dishes from several different sources/times.
I would have to put the bacon wrapped dates on my final meal menu. Spicy and satisfying, they remain on a menu that changes seasonally.
The focaccia and pork shoulder are also must gets. There is always a good salad or two but make sure you ask your server to guide you to the best one (they are honest).
The wine list is also unorthodox so ask for guidance there as well.
And lastly, they play some great jams if you can sit close enough to the 'kitchen' area.
Service
Great
Decor
Communal,Seating,Wood
Dishes
Bacon Wrapped Dates, Pork Shoulder, Focaccia
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