Chicago Restaurant Tips by kandl1

Restaurant Name: Carsons Rib's

We're talking old-school BBQ here...not a greasy "down home" place, but a place with tablecoths, waiters as old as the building, complimentary chopped liver (chopped liver????!!) in the bar and plenty of people waiting to get in for those ribs.
It was in walking distance from the hotel so we walked along the river and had a nice time.
Ok, the restaurant is kinda dark but noisy. Yes, there is chopped liver in the bar, along with cream cheese and pumpernickle bread (like I said, old-school) to nosh on while you're waiting, or just drinking.
The waiters were older gentlemen, who didn't smile much, nor say too much, but got the job done smoothly and timely.

Favorite Dish: We had some potato skins, which were pretty good, but still potato skins (stuffed with cheese and bacon)
The ribs were really good, we had the baby backs (pork). Good cole slaw and ceaser salad.

Leave a Comment

Theme: Barbecue
Comparison: more expensive than average
Prices: US$31-40  » Currency Converter
Phone: (312) 280-9200
Address: 612 North Wells Street
Directions: Downtown, just north of the river.
Website: http://www.carsonsribs.com/index.html

Restaurant Name: Frontera Grill / Topolobambo

I had read about this place, and am a fan of Rick Bayless' TV shows and cookbooks, so I felt it was my duty to seek it out and try it for myself.
It's only a couple of blocks from our hotel (The Monaco) so we walked and "only" had to wait for 45 minutes... Oh well, at least we were VERY hungry when we were seated. It is highly colorful place, with plenty to look at while you're waiting. I felt the main room was somewhat smaller than what I was expecting, but once we sat down, it didn't matter at all.
This isn't your typical Mexican food, but much more regional, focusing on the different states, rather than the burrito, taco, enchilada combo plates that you see at most "American" Mexican places.

Favorite Dish: mmm...best torilla soup I've ever had, and I've tried it at many places in the US.
Overall a high quality restaurant, great energy in the dining room, and skillful service. We’d definitely go back.

Oh, I almost forgot. During our meal, Rick Bayless came out and walked around to check up on everybody. He was wearing his chef whites! He was actually cooking that night. He came by to our table and he signed one of his books for us and chatted us up for a few minutes. It was nice to see a "celebrity chef" actually working in his own restaurant.

Leave a Comment

Theme: Mexican
Comparison: more expensive than average
Prices: US$21-30  » Currency Converter
Phone: 312-661-1434
Address: 445 N. Clark St.
Directions: River North
Website: http://www.fronterakitchens.com/restaurants/