American Style with a Creative Twist – The Local Chicago

One block from the hustle and bustle of the tourist mecca of Chicago’s North Michigan Avenue, there is a perfect place to enjoy libations from an outstanding bar and elegant food with classic comfort.  That place is The Local Chicago at 198 East Delaware Place.  And yes, locals (many of whom are high-profile with national and worldwide reputations)  frequent this terrific restaurant exuding a menu with a creative American style so many of us long for.

With over twenty years in the restaurant business, most recently proprietors of the popular Chicago Cut Steakhouse, David Flom and Matt Moore are leading the way at The Local Chicago.  Flom shared his thoughts about their newest venture recently at a special media dinner highlighting creative dishes with wine pairings.  He wants this restaurant to be enjoyed by visitors to Chicago, those who work in the area, and of course the local residents who love a neighborhood atmosphere.  Offering a menu  which makes guests think of Mom’s heartfelt  cooking using fresh ingredients and a new twist is one of Flom’s passions.  Lingering over the newspaper with a hot cup of coffee (or Mimosa) and creative morning brunch, sharing a glass of wine or spirit from the top shelf bar with a friend, or feeling  a comfortable warmth after a brisk and chilly walk in the city with a perfectly prepared entrée are the experiences readily available.  Having had the opportunity to take part in a not-to-be-forgotten dinner,  I am happy to write that Flom’s passion is being executed quite effectively by Chef Travis Strickland.  From hors d’oeuvres including Skillet Cornbread to entrees one of which was Dr. Pepper Baby Back Ribs to my favorite dessert of Oreo Mint Ice Cream Pie, these flavors reminded me that there is a part of Chicago that will make you feel a bit at home…and as if you live around the corner!  What dishes and libations did I enjoy that cold Chicago evening?

Hors D’Oeuvres

Skillet Cornbread, Slagel Family Farm Deviled Eggs, Mini Ahi Tuna Burgers

Paired with…

Argyle Brut Sparkling Wine 2009 (This mild 65% Pinot Noir and 35% Chardonnay bubbly from Oregon was a perfect starter~)

Appetizer

Bouquet of Chilled Shellfish (1/2 lobster, shrimp, crab cocktail, and Kumamoto oysters-see picture above and yearn!)

Paired with…

St. Clair Sauvignon Blanc 2011 (A bit of grapefruit and acidity in this New Zealand selection paired with the seafood gave an extra snap to the dish~)

Salad

Burrata and Heirloom Tomatoes served with basil oil and twelve year Balsamic

Paired with…

Landmark Chardonnay 2010 (From Sonoma, this choice showed pear, citrus, and minerality yet with an oaky, buttery finish which worked oh so well with the Burrata and tomatoes~)

Entrees

Bacon Wrapped Shrimp and Grits (creamy Anson Mills grits, Worcestershire and tasso gravy)

Dr. Pepper Baby Back Ribs (slow smoked pork ribs served with coleslaw)

USDA Prime Dry Aged Meatloaf (served with whipped potatoes, mushroom demi-glace and apple-tomato jam)

Paired with…

Andeluna Malbec 2011 (Aromas of flowers and fruit led to tastes of vanilla and chocolate..perfect pairing with the Dr. Pepper ribs~)

Raymond Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 (I loved the warmth, spice, blueberry, dried fruit aromas and flavors with a long finish – wow factor!)

Dessert

Apple Brown Betty (warm cinnamon baked apples, golden raising, brioche crumb topping and vanilla ice cream)

Homemade Semi-Sweet Chocolate Mousse (Callebaut and Valrhona chocolate mousse served with Chantilly cream)

Oreo Mint Ice Cream Pie (Black Dog mint gelato, Oreo cookie crust, fresh whipped cream)

Years ago, I lived a few blocks from 198 East Delaware Place.  None of the local restaurants at which I regularly dined were like this.  Fortunately  I can now experience The Local Chicago and remember how it felt to be a true neighbor to and in a big city.  And you can, too – from wherever you are!

Cheers~ Cindy

 

The Local Chicago

198 East Delaware Place

Chicago, IL  60611

312-280-8887