After being at the top of my “restaurants to try in Chicago” list or over 2 years now (this list is constantly growing by the way), I finally got to dine at Schwa. You have no idea how excited I get to cross a restaurant off this list (well technically just remove it from the notes section of my iPhone) but this one was especially thrilling.
Over the weekend I dined at the latest Graham Elliot establishment–g.e.b (Graham Elliot Bistro) in West Loop.
With an open kitchen (my favorite!) and loud rock music playing, I was immediately intrigued. The music was interesting because they played everything from Bob Dylan to MGMT and even dubstep (after 10pm). Graham has a whimsical aesthetic when it comes to food and he’s also a little bit “rock ‘n roll.” Both of which I associate with designer, Betsey Johnson. Both Graham and Betsey seem to not care what others think, but they just want to create something fun that people will enjoy…and they do.
After sitting down and realizing the menu was on an old record, I was sold. Didn’t even have a morsel of food yet and I didn’t care…the menu was rad and I knew the food would be even better.
Here’s a look at what I ate…
Beet, burrata and arugula salad
Asparagus, egg and gremolata
Calamari with chickpea and espelette
Chicken with buttermilk and tarragon
Chocolate hazelnut beignets + poundcake with strawberries, rhubarb, basil
This meal was not only delicious but it was just a super fun experience. Although I’ve never attended myself, it seems like Betsey’s shows are the most fun to attend during fashion week. And dining at a Graham Elliot restaurant is always a fun thing to do in Chicago.
Have you dined at g.e.b. yet? Would love to hear what you think!
As per request of many readers, I have officially decided to incorporate food posts as part of my blog. To put the fashion in ChiCityFashion I created a new category called Food Pairings where I pair each restaurant and meal with a designer. So instead of a complimentary Cabernet or a perfect Pinot Grigio, I choose Prada, Proenza or in this case, Marc Jacobs. So with that said…
After making a reservation over a month ago, I finally had the chance to eat at Maude’s Liquor Bar this week. The ambiance is dark, romantic and sophisticated but with a welcoming laid-back feel. The food is French inspired with a focus on seafood, but with a playful American twist. The menu is perfect for foodies looking for exotic offerings like foie gras, bone marrow, and escargot. Of course there are some simpler items like pomme frites, steak, and mussels.
So what did I eat you may be wondering? Well let me elaborate…
Let's start off with some bone marrow, shall we?
Mussels and fries...you can't beat this combo
Roast Farm Chicken...one of the best chicken dishes I've ever had
Only offering one dessert, it had to be good...Creme Brulee. Dig in!
So, where does Marc Jacobs come into play? He’s the first designer I thought of when I really took in the atmosphere, the restaurant’s aesthetic and the food overall. Marc Jacobs is a well known American designer who is also the creative director for one of the most famous French design houses, Louis Vuitton. His designs are sophisticated and tasteful but always have a subtle playfulness…just like Maude’s.
Marc Jacobs Spring 2011
Louis Vuitton Spring 2011
So wear your favorite Marc Jacobs dress and bring your Louis Vuitton Speedy for a delicious night out at Maude’s.
