[I had a lot to say on this one so forgive the length - TLDR: enjoyed this spot and you should go for special occasion, be aware of a 20% service charge + 3-9% recommended tip]
I decided to go here for a special occasion, sheerly out of the amount of hype this establishment has received since it's post pandemic opening in 2022. By hype I'm referring to the many cover stories and features by "Choose Chicago", "Crains Business", "World Business Chicago", and pretty much every food-centric press in the City - as a must visit black owned business.
The wine selection here is broad but clearly has been well curated and does not overwhelm. The menu features sips from Italy, France, South Africa, Spain, Portugal, Australia and of course California - all of which are from the regions you would expect for each respective Country/State. The only actually wine I had though was the Yalumba Antique Tawny Port which was fine (I wish I would have gone with the affogato for dessert instead).
Despite it being a winery, I opted for the "Uncle Yam's Old Fashioned" which comes garnished with a torched marshmallow and features sweet potato sweetener in it as well as Uncle Nearest Whiskey which is a phenomenal whiskey with a deeply intriguing story to tell...
I found this drink reflected much of what I thought of the winery. It was a sweet, fun, and enjoyable beverage that was presented in an upscale style but didn't take itself too seriously; it was refined and high quality without being inaccessible or unenjoyable for a more casual patron.
For Dinner I split the wild mushroom pappardelle with my partner. It was phenomenal prepared, also it was refreshing to see the use of actual quality mushrooms (I can't remember if they were oyster or enoki) in a "wild mushroom" dish, which at lesser establishments typically just means cremini/button mushrooms.
The interior is refined, well decorated, but still relaxed - no need to where a suit or heels. The price point is maybe a bit higher than other casual dining experiences (you can check for yourself online), but I would argue are actually competitive given the quality of the food. The kicker is the 20% service charge on every bill plus an additional recommendation of a 3-7% tip. This makes it a pretty pricey affair in spite of the lower prices on the menu so be aware of that before stopping in with the family.
I wish there was more clarity on what the service charge is, is it minimum gratuity? does it go to the kitchen and wait staff? is the tip additional? am I tipping 27% or 7%? This was the only sour part of my experience here, as there is just something weird about paying for your meal then paying an additional 20% then paying an additional 7% tip. I know this is quickly becoming industry standard, but it really is annoying - just build the cost into the price of the food/drink and have a normal tipping structure, instead of making your prices look competitive and hitting patrons with hidden fines and fees (typically located in size 4 font at the bottom of the last page of the menu).
At any rate - Overall, I thought the food was great, the drink was excellent, and the ambience was awesome (also a great DJ spinning some smooth vinyl) . All aspects of this restaurant are upscale but approachable which sets it apart from other high-end offerings in the City that might seem to snobby or formal for some (Prime & Provisions, The Cut, Sepia, etc.). I highly recommend this spot for a special dinner occasion. For true wine snobs/afficionados (whichever title you prefer) it will most definitely not live up to your expectations in terms of selection or service that is expected from a standard winery most anywhere else, but is still worth the experience if you find yourself in the area! read more