This has been the week of unbelievable finds mostly due to total chance and a bit of luck and mystery. I found myself in Rogers Park for two days for my daughter's freshman orientation at Loyola. Of course, my number one concern after the first day of seminars was to find somewhere awesome to eat that evening. After extensive searching throughout the day, I believed I had settled on somewhere to go... that is until the front desk attendant of my hotel handed me a sheet of recommended places to check out in the area. Normally, I will just explore and research on my own to figure out somewhere to go. Despite the many exciting choices nearby, of which I almost settled on Ethiopian or Cambodian, I stumbled on Le Piano; and my oh my, I couldn't be happier that I did.
Looking at the listed provided by the hotel, Le Piano was in a small section titled "music, food, bar" and specifically labeled as jazz. Taking a minute to hit up their website, I found that night that Gerry Hundt, a blues artist I didn't know was going to be playing. My interest already now piqued, I rushed over to the menu, which is awash in wonderful sounding continental and French classics made local and fit for a jazz bar. The cocktail menu also matches, but is also incredibly extensive and has a very interesting Victorian flair. It was at this point I was sold, and booked a seat immediately to head out that evening.
Arriving, I found this to be one of the coolest spaces I have ever been to for music. Styled perfectly with a dark Victorian-yet-jazzy flair, and intimate, my assigned seat was allowed to be changed to an amazingly worn leather loveseat, like something out of a noir film, with a single taper lighting my table. The bartender and my server made a point of giving me their names, which I believe were Chris and Steven, but I can't remember because my memory is Swiss cheese, but they were both amazing, talking with me and being completely engaged with me as a Chicago newbie.
This doesn't even include the perfect sazerac and jasmine that Chris made to round out the artichoke fritters I ordered. The fritters were outstanding. Barely breaded and flash fried to perfection and one of the best fried dishes I've had in years, as I don't prefer that type of thing. Steven's recommendation was seriously on point. If a spot like this existed near me, I would be there weekly. If I lived in Chicago, Le Piano wouldn't be able to get rid of me. Don't pass on this place and get there now! Enjoy some wonderful music, legendary drinks, and outstanding food! read more