9.08.2008

Chicago's Custom House Restaurant


Sweetbreads
Glazed Bacon/White Polenta
Button Mushrooms

I want to share the experience of dining in Chicago, one of my favorite food towns. It's not just about the food, but also the big personality of this metropolis and the service, ambiance, architecture, and lights of the Windy City.

Chef Shawn McClain's Custom House is located at 500 S. Dearborn, on the edge of the Loop. In the 1890s, the area was called the Custom House Levee District, known for its bordellos, saloons and pawnshops; hence the name. With its floor to ceiling windows this restaurant has a sleek cool elegance. It features Regional American fare with locally-sourced seasonal ingredients.

Werp Farms Beets
Crispy Lardo/Pistachio
Blue Cheese/Arugula


Standing at 1,450 feet and 110 stories high, the Sears Tower is the tallest building in North America and the third tallest building in the world: seen here from our table.


Heirloom Beans
Soffrito/Oregano

Homemade Tortelli
Buffalo Milk Ricotta/Green Beans
Parsley Walnut Pesto

Horseradish Cream Puffs



Bone In Short Rib

Pommes Anna
Housemade Bacon

Another Order of Horseradish Cream Puffs


Veal Cheeks
Tomato Anchovy Preserve
Bone Marrow Crostini


Artisanal Cheeses


Enjoying the Evening
As the Sun Goes Down

Black and White Ice Cream Float
Chocolate and Wattleseed Ice Cream
Mini Black and Whites


French Press Coffee
End to Another Fabulous Chicago Meal

A friend of mine is on her way to Chicago for business and asked if I had any recommendations for dining in the city. Another of my favorites is Joe's Stone Crabs on the corner of Grand & Rush, which I wrote about in April and, of course, Charlie Trotter's. For an authentic Chicago-Style lunch, don't miss Hot Doug's!



We also love Bistrot Margot, in Chicago's Old Town, a blog post for another time...

Have a great trip, Susan!