Out at Woodfield Mall, we tried City Works based on a Google Maps suggestion. It's a large,…read morecorporate, upscale dining spot. If you're a beer drinker, they have a massive selection on tap (about 90 taps--and no, that's not a typo!). They also have a large patio that looks like a great spot when the weather is nice. Inside, there's a good mix of low-tops, high-tops, banquettes, and booths. All the tabletops feature copper tops with wood trim, and exposure to water and food over time has given each table a unique patina.
We arrived right as they were switching over from the brunch menu to dinner, and the staff made us feel very welcome.
What We Ordered:
Smoked Brisket Reuben Eggrolls: We ordered these special eggrolls for the table. My friend has a shellfish allergy, and since many traditional eggrolls contain shrimp, he was excited to try these. He said they were the best eggrolls he's ever had (though he admitted he doesn't eat them often!). He paired it with a Guinness Zero non-alcoholic draught and was amazed by how close it tasted to the original.
Fish Tacos ($19): Recommended by another reviewer, these come with three cornmeal-battered, fried Mahi-Mahi tacos topped with cilantro lime cream and fresh micro cilantro. They were crispy and very tasty. If you're usually sensitive to cilantro, you might still enjoy these--I mostly tasted a bright, lemony freshness rather than heavy cilantro.
Sides (Broccoli Rabe & Asparagus): I substituted chips for a vegetable side. Due to a mix-up in the kitchen, I got to try the broccoli rabe first, though it turned out way too spicy for anyone at our table. My actual order was asparagus--my absolute favorite--but it was a bit disappointing, as the bottom half of each stalk was woody and fibrous.
Fish & Chips ($21.50): My friend went with this traditional entry. At that price point, he was expecting three fillets, but he couldn't finish the two that were served and took some home. Overall, a solid entrée.
Classic Breakfast ($15.50): My husband got this from the brunch menu. He was very pleased with the scrambled eggs, potatoes, thick-sliced bacon, and sausage links.
Overall, a solid visit with great variety on the menu!