Crew Bar & Grill is located in the Andersonville neighborhood of Chicago. After a short time in this comfortable bar, you will feel as if you have been coming to the Crew for years.
Tony frequently talks about the fantastic chicken wings served at Crew. I’ve known him to drive to Crew at 11pm for an order to go! So wings it was for lunch.
We had an order of the “Buffalo Mild” wings and the “Sassy” wings. Each order of the meaty chicken wings had a unique, intense flavor. The chewy/crispy outside gave way to the moist, meaty center. The Buffalo wings were perfectly seasoned with a tomatoey, vinegary, spicy blend of flavors, accompanied by a generous side of chucky bleu cheese and celery sticks. The Sassy wings were my favorite, seasoned similar to the Buffalo wings with less vinegar but more hot & sweet. The side of ranch sauce was excellent with the Sassy wings. The Crew’s menu listing for the Sassy wings is the perfect descriptor… “Just like Friday night’s fling – tasty & HOT!” I agree.
We cooled our palates with a couple rounds of the very soothing, large raspberry lemonade martinis. I know, I know. Put a delicious combination of liquors in a martini goblet and waa-laa, it’s called a martini. No matter the vessel, the raspberry lemonades are a thirst quencher with a punch! Yumm.
The plethora of sports memorabilia, large flat screen TVs, cheerful & friendly staff, and colorful clientele all add up to a great time.
I agree with Tony. These are the best chicken wings I can remember eating!
Mmm, Mmm…
http://www.worldsgreatestbar.com/
$
++++
✦✦✦
Entrée
$ 10
$$ 20
$$$ 30
$$$$ 40+
Staff
+ Stop bothering me!
++ Anyone here?
+++ Stopped when in the area.
++++ As needed and friendly.
+++++ Invisibly perfect!
Overall
✦ “One visit too many!”
✦✦ “Convince me!”
✦✦✦ “I’ll be back!”
✦✦✦✦ “Same table next week!”
Monday, May 28, 2007
PRIMEHOUSE - Chicago
As we were driving through Chicago, I made a comment that I craved “a really great steak.” 2 days later, Tony and I are walking into The PRIMEHOUSE – located in downtown Chicago within the James Hotel. David Burke's Primehouse is a contemporary steakhouse with meats from the Creekstone Farms in Kentucky. The superb beef is dry-aged on premise in a salt-tiled aging room.
We began our dining event with martinis. Isn’t this the appropriate libation when reviewing an incredible menu? Unable to narrow our selection to 1 or 2 choices, we choose to share several selections.
Our first appetizer was the gazpacho. This soup of the day contained the freshest garden vegetables imaginable, including tomatoes, celery, scallions, peppers, cucumber and garlic. The surprise was a mound of succulent chopped crab placed in the center of the soup at the table just prior to serving – slightly chilled. Fantastic!
Our second appetizer was the Surf & Turf Dumplings. These golf-balled sized nuggets exploded with intense, unique flavors. The surf was Lobster Mousse dumplings with a delicately seasoned lemon chive butter. Our turf was Braised Short rib dumplings served with a smoky, slightly sweet barbeque dipping sauce. Both variations of dumplings were wrapped in very thin pasta, resembling a “lollipop.” Delicious.
Yes, we ordered a third appetizer. The indescribable Kobe Beef Sashimi was sprinkled with coarse ground Himalayan salt and mushroom chips. The very thin slices of beef were drizzled with a truffle mayo – unbelievable! This appetizer was the ultimate; it left us wanting more. I highly recommend this as an option for anyone who loves beef.
Before the steak arrived, Tony ordered an amazing bottle of red from California off their extensive wine list. Unfortunately, I can not remember the vineyard.
It was now time for our entrée. We ordered the Kansas City Sirloin; this 14 ounce steak (excluding the bone) was aged for 38 days. This terrific cut had the right amount of marble and was cooked to perfection. No knife necessary to cut the steak into bite size pieces. If that was not enough, we had an 8 ounce lobster tail added to the plate. The very fresh, sweet lobster tail was the ideal size for the 2 of us.
We selected the quick-grilled asparagus drizzled with lemon as our veggie. A fresh, light side for an amazing meal.
I don’t know how we could have had any room left for dessert, but we ordered the Reverse Root Beer Float. This refreshing choice for dessert offered surprises – the root beer flavor was in the ice cream and the vanilla in the soda. The float was served in a tall, chilled glass – 2 spoons required.
The staff was friendly; our server was outstanding. She offered great suggestions and maintained perfect timing of our evening. Flawless!
This was simply one of the finest dining experiences I have had. Period.
Mmm, Mmm, Mmm
http://www.brguestrestaurants.com/restaurants/primehouse/index.php
$$$$
+++++
✦✦✦✦
Entrée
$ 10
$$ 20
$$$ 30
$$$$ 40+
Staff
+ Stop bothering me!
++ Anyone here?
+++ Stopped when in the area.
++++ As needed and friendly.
+++++ Invisibly perfect!
Overall
✦ “One visit too many!”
✦✦ “Convince me!”
✦✦✦ “I’ll be back!”
✦✦✦✦ “Same table next week!”
We began our dining event with martinis. Isn’t this the appropriate libation when reviewing an incredible menu? Unable to narrow our selection to 1 or 2 choices, we choose to share several selections.
Our first appetizer was the gazpacho. This soup of the day contained the freshest garden vegetables imaginable, including tomatoes, celery, scallions, peppers, cucumber and garlic. The surprise was a mound of succulent chopped crab placed in the center of the soup at the table just prior to serving – slightly chilled. Fantastic!
Our second appetizer was the Surf & Turf Dumplings. These golf-balled sized nuggets exploded with intense, unique flavors. The surf was Lobster Mousse dumplings with a delicately seasoned lemon chive butter. Our turf was Braised Short rib dumplings served with a smoky, slightly sweet barbeque dipping sauce. Both variations of dumplings were wrapped in very thin pasta, resembling a “lollipop.” Delicious.
Yes, we ordered a third appetizer. The indescribable Kobe Beef Sashimi was sprinkled with coarse ground Himalayan salt and mushroom chips. The very thin slices of beef were drizzled with a truffle mayo – unbelievable! This appetizer was the ultimate; it left us wanting more. I highly recommend this as an option for anyone who loves beef.
Before the steak arrived, Tony ordered an amazing bottle of red from California off their extensive wine list. Unfortunately, I can not remember the vineyard.
It was now time for our entrée. We ordered the Kansas City Sirloin; this 14 ounce steak (excluding the bone) was aged for 38 days. This terrific cut had the right amount of marble and was cooked to perfection. No knife necessary to cut the steak into bite size pieces. If that was not enough, we had an 8 ounce lobster tail added to the plate. The very fresh, sweet lobster tail was the ideal size for the 2 of us.
We selected the quick-grilled asparagus drizzled with lemon as our veggie. A fresh, light side for an amazing meal.
I don’t know how we could have had any room left for dessert, but we ordered the Reverse Root Beer Float. This refreshing choice for dessert offered surprises – the root beer flavor was in the ice cream and the vanilla in the soda. The float was served in a tall, chilled glass – 2 spoons required.
The staff was friendly; our server was outstanding. She offered great suggestions and maintained perfect timing of our evening. Flawless!
This was simply one of the finest dining experiences I have had. Period.
Mmm, Mmm, Mmm
http://www.brguestrestaurants.com/restaurants/primehouse/index.php
$$$$
+++++
✦✦✦✦
Entrée
$ 10
$$ 20
$$$ 30
$$$$ 40+
Staff
+ Stop bothering me!
++ Anyone here?
+++ Stopped when in the area.
++++ As needed and friendly.
+++++ Invisibly perfect!
Overall
✦ “One visit too many!”
✦✦ “Convince me!”
✦✦✦ “I’ll be back!”
✦✦✦✦ “Same table next week!”
Saturday, May 26, 2007
SIGNATURE LOUNGE - Chicago
Prior to spending a long weekend with Tony in Chicago, I had only one request for our first evening together in the city – “libations with a view.” He did not disappoint! Tony took me to the Signature Lounge, located in the John Hancock tower in downtown Chicago.
The Lounge is a quick 53-second elevator ride up to the 96th floor. The infamous Signature Room (restaurant) on the 95th floor is connected to the Lounge by a wide, open staircase. There is a large cut-away between the floors allowing guests to see into both of the wonderful spaces. We scored a table for 2 near the window, looking toward the Pier on Lake Michigan; Midway Airport was off in the distance. From this vantage point, there was nothing between the “heavens” and us. Spectacular!
We had no food while we were at the Signature Lounge, but we certainly enjoyed a couple rounds of “Signature Cocktails”. I sipped Pear Martinis – a sinfully delicious blend of pear infused premium vodka and a splash of pear liquor. Tony raved about his Magnificent Mile Manhattans.
Breathtaking views, fantastic libations, fabulous companion… the perfect start to a wonderful evening.
Mmm, Mmm…
http://www.signatureroom.com/lounge/default.cfm?PID=15
$$
++++
✦✦✦
Entrée
$ 10
$$ 20
$$$ 30
$$$$ 40+
Staff
+ Stop bothering me!
++ Anyone here?
+++ Stopped when in the area.
++++ As needed and friendly.
+++++ Invisibly perfect!
Overall
✦ “One visit too many!”
✦✦ “Convince me!”
✦✦✦ “I’ll be back!”
✦✦✦✦ “Same table next week!”
The Lounge is a quick 53-second elevator ride up to the 96th floor. The infamous Signature Room (restaurant) on the 95th floor is connected to the Lounge by a wide, open staircase. There is a large cut-away between the floors allowing guests to see into both of the wonderful spaces. We scored a table for 2 near the window, looking toward the Pier on Lake Michigan; Midway Airport was off in the distance. From this vantage point, there was nothing between the “heavens” and us. Spectacular!
We had no food while we were at the Signature Lounge, but we certainly enjoyed a couple rounds of “Signature Cocktails”. I sipped Pear Martinis – a sinfully delicious blend of pear infused premium vodka and a splash of pear liquor. Tony raved about his Magnificent Mile Manhattans.
Breathtaking views, fantastic libations, fabulous companion… the perfect start to a wonderful evening.
Mmm, Mmm…
http://www.signatureroom.com/lounge/default.cfm?PID=15
$$
++++
✦✦✦
Entrée
$ 10
$$ 20
$$$ 30
$$$$ 40+
Staff
+ Stop bothering me!
++ Anyone here?
+++ Stopped when in the area.
++++ As needed and friendly.
+++++ Invisibly perfect!
Overall
✦ “One visit too many!”
✦✦ “Convince me!”
✦✦✦ “I’ll be back!”
✦✦✦✦ “Same table next week!”
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
JOE JACK'S FISH SHACK - Puerto Vallarta
Joe Jack’s Fish Shack is located in Zona Romantica (old town area) – like so many of the better restaurants in this jewel of a city!
Joe Jack’s has been open for a short year. I have misplaced my notes from my first visit (lunch) back in November 2006. However, my second visit was as good. This time for dinner.
My libation of the evening was their “Mermaid Martini”. It’s a lip-smacking combination of Alizi, limon, and Absolut Citron. On the menu, it is noted as a double. However, 2 “minis” make one regular for me. Joe Jack’s scores major points for serving the second portion of the double in a small goblet resting on ice. In a city where the average temperature is 80 degrees and often, seductively, humid, this icy touch is most welcomed. I have had few special “martinis” I have enjoyed more!
As I was reviewing their entertaining menu, I nibbled on a complimentary starter of crispy jicama sticks and sliced radishes dusted with cayenne and drizzled with fresh limon. Very refreshing. The subtle heat from the cayenne was the perfect reason to order another Mermaid martini.
My dinner selection was the catch of the day – dorado. The very fresh dorado fillet was seasoned with their secret rub and perfectly grilled, moist center and slightly charred edges. The dorado was plated with wonderfully seasoned rice and beans. Ask for the pico de gallo on the side. The fish is so fresh and flavorful; it does not need the pico de gallo. The pico de gallo has too many white onions and not enough tomato for my taste buds. There was no need for the radishes that came with my dorado.
The service is very friendly and attentive. My first visit to Joe Jack’s was at the start of high season last November. This evening, high season had ended. I understand the staff had more time for each table. Don’t be intrusive; let me enjoy my bit of paradise at the Fish Shack. No complaints, just too much of a good thing.
For those of you inclined to stay in one of the many hotel rooms or condos with a view of the beautiful Pacific, Joe Jack’s delivers to numerous nearby properties.
The restaurant has 2 levels – both with pedestrian views of Basilio Badillo. Request a table with a view of the busy street for additional enjoyment.
Link to another visit to Joe Jack's: http://eatingout411.blogspot.com/2007/11/joe-jacks-fish-shack-puerto-vallarta.html
Mmm, Mmm…
http://www.joejacks-fishshack.com
$$
++++
✦✦✦
Entrée
$ 10
$$ 20
$$$ 30
$$$$ 40+
Staff
+ Stop bothering me!
++ Anyone here?
+++ Stopped when in the area.
++++ As needed and friendly.
+++++ Invisibly perfect!
Overall
✦ “One visit too many!”
✦✦ “Convince me!”
✦✦✦ “I’ll be back!”
✦✦✦✦ “Same table next week!”
Joe Jack’s has been open for a short year. I have misplaced my notes from my first visit (lunch) back in November 2006. However, my second visit was as good. This time for dinner.
My libation of the evening was their “Mermaid Martini”. It’s a lip-smacking combination of Alizi, limon, and Absolut Citron. On the menu, it is noted as a double. However, 2 “minis” make one regular for me. Joe Jack’s scores major points for serving the second portion of the double in a small goblet resting on ice. In a city where the average temperature is 80 degrees and often, seductively, humid, this icy touch is most welcomed. I have had few special “martinis” I have enjoyed more!
As I was reviewing their entertaining menu, I nibbled on a complimentary starter of crispy jicama sticks and sliced radishes dusted with cayenne and drizzled with fresh limon. Very refreshing. The subtle heat from the cayenne was the perfect reason to order another Mermaid martini.
My dinner selection was the catch of the day – dorado. The very fresh dorado fillet was seasoned with their secret rub and perfectly grilled, moist center and slightly charred edges. The dorado was plated with wonderfully seasoned rice and beans. Ask for the pico de gallo on the side. The fish is so fresh and flavorful; it does not need the pico de gallo. The pico de gallo has too many white onions and not enough tomato for my taste buds. There was no need for the radishes that came with my dorado.
The service is very friendly and attentive. My first visit to Joe Jack’s was at the start of high season last November. This evening, high season had ended. I understand the staff had more time for each table. Don’t be intrusive; let me enjoy my bit of paradise at the Fish Shack. No complaints, just too much of a good thing.
For those of you inclined to stay in one of the many hotel rooms or condos with a view of the beautiful Pacific, Joe Jack’s delivers to numerous nearby properties.
The restaurant has 2 levels – both with pedestrian views of Basilio Badillo. Request a table with a view of the busy street for additional enjoyment.
Link to another visit to Joe Jack's: http://eatingout411.blogspot.com/2007/11/joe-jacks-fish-shack-puerto-vallarta.html
Mmm, Mmm…
http://www.joejacks-fishshack.com
$$
++++
✦✦✦
Entrée
$ 10
$$ 20
$$$ 30
$$$$ 40+
Staff
+ Stop bothering me!
++ Anyone here?
+++ Stopped when in the area.
++++ As needed and friendly.
+++++ Invisibly perfect!
Overall
✦ “One visit too many!”
✦✦ “Convince me!”
✦✦✦ “I’ll be back!”
✦✦✦✦ “Same table next week!”
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
