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    Machine Cocktail Bar

    4.8 (39 reviews)
    Closed Closed

    Machine Cocktail Bar Photos

    MACHINE COCKTAIL BAR ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Casual
    Happy hour specials
    Good for groups

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    Recommended Reviews - Machine Cocktail Bar

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    Cute sign in bathroom
    Naba K.

    Such a fun cocktail bar experience! Reminded me a lot of the aviary in terms of experimentation and presentation of cocktails. The restaurant itself is absolutely stunning, decor is gorgeous and the service is great. Everyone was very kind. The location is a little tucked away and it's in the "underground". Was surprised it wasn't more packed honestly because of how cool the cocktails were!

    Naa Adoley A.

    I visited The Machine in Chicago for my birthday, and it turned out to be the perfect place to celebrate. We booked our reservation through OpenTable, which was quick and easy, and from the moment we arrived the staff made me feel genuinely special. The vibe of the bar is what stood out first. It has a grown and sexy atmosphere with dim lighting and a cozy, intimate feel that makes the whole space really inviting. It felt elevated but still comfortable, and the ambiance set the tone for such a fun night. Our waiter was honestly one of the best parts of the experience. He was so kind, attentive, and funny in the most effortless way. He mentioned that he works every day, so if you go, ask for him and tip him well because he truly adds to the experience. The drinks were another highlight. I ordered one that looked like a hanging fish bowl, and it tasted even better than it looked. The cocktail menu is creative, the prices are reasonable for Chicago, and each drink feels thoughtfully put together. And if you're not in the mood for something out of the box they have a bunch of classics on their menu like espresso martinis and margaritas. The music tied everything together. They played a mix of RnB and other hits that gave the space a fun energy without being overwhelming. It was the perfect volume where we could enjoy the music and still have a real conversation and hear each other. As someone who literally can never hear this was perfect! Overall, The Machine delivered great drinks, amazing service, and a really memorable atmosphere for my birthday. I would absolutely come back and would recommend it to anyone looking for a stylish but comfortable cocktail spot in Chicago.

    Priyanka C.

    Hidden gem with literally the best happy hour in Chicago. Beautiful and such creative cocktails with top notch presentations. Our server was also very knowledgeable and helpful in guiding our selections. Would totally come back with friends!

    Garden drink, blue heart
    Natasha M.

    Really cool drinks. First time going since they re-opened and I was really impressed. The cocktails have always been fun, but this margarita garden version was one of the coolest savory cocktails I've had in a while. Service was great, although they didn't have one of the drinks we wanted to try. Ambiance is cute too. Would love if they have more vegetarian food options.

    Ankit S.

    When you walk in you're greeted by the waiter behind the bar. I really liked the ambiance inside which makes it so good. The service was absolutely amazing. The drinks were something else. The one we had with the flower ice cream was really good. It had a Gelato in the drink. They make the drinks here so unique. Definitely have to come back and try more thing off the menu.

    Maxine L.

    Happened upon this place on a little wander through the neighborhood and decided to drop in for Saturday night drinks. We didn't have a reservation, but we were sat at the bar immediately. The vibes here are dark, modern, and upscale. The space itself is pretty large too. I ordered the hanging garden which comes in this little hanging planter. It's so cute and the drink was super tasty. I surprisingly loved the sugar snap peas in the drink because it added a sweet freshness. Overall, 10/10 experience. I loved watching the bartenders make the drinks, loved the vibes, and loved the creativity behind the drinks themselves!

    Bee's Pajamas
    Krystian C.

    Fun, interactive drinks! I'm not a whiskey guy, but enjoyed the Bee's Pajamas. Nice spot for date night or catching up with friends! Server was very friendly and explained the drinks/menu thoroughly.

    Fowl Woodsman
    Andre W.

    I was very much well acquainted with the former Wicker Park location as it was my haven during the summer/fall 2020 pandemic as they had the huge patio to dine and drink on! Loved it! They have now moved to the most northern part of River North and rebranded themselves as a cool and chill cocktail lounge which is right up my alley! Grand opening was recent and I was happy to be one of their first customers. Its located downstairs from Headquarters Beercade (they own it and Dearly Beloved). Walked in to a very dim setting and was greeted by some very lovely ladies. Grabbed a seat at the bar and saw a familiar face...a woman named Tessa that worked at Inkwell previously. She's very awesome and makes great cocktails. Menu looked great and it was hard to pick what I wanted. I started with the Fowl Woodman which is a Tenjaku whisky and Pechuga mezcal based cocktail...my favorite drink of the night! Puts you in the mindset of an old fashioned by the look of it but its so much better than that! Next I went with the Rose Colored Contacts. Tequila and red wine based cocktail that also includes milk and egg whites...fantastic and smooth as hell! Highly recommend! 3rd Cocktail was the Casually Judging which includes tequila and mezcal...comes topped with a chili dried pineapple. A little spicy and was ok...the lesser of the 3 but still decent. Finished my night with a nice Oaxacan old fashioned executed by Tessa! Watched them make other amazing drinks such as the Dirty Little Secret Martini, Arabian Night, Duck Duck Goose, Love is A Fog, Shrimp Cocktail Cocktail (came topped with a shrimp lol) and Pistachio Affogato (comes with gelato). Got hungry throwing these drinks down so I tried the Machine Burger. Its a smash burger with 2 patties with a fried shallot, onion soubise and pickled jalapenos on a brioche bun accompanied by truffle fries. Burger was good but would get it without jalapenos next time as I felt it disrupted the already amazing flavor. Staff here is dope and the setting and ambience is great. Great for solo, date or group outing! Love the new digs!

    Lorraine W.

    I loved the Machine on division (now closed) so I was thrilled when I saw their new concept and couldn't wait to try it out. It did not disappoint! Extremely classy, elevated, intimate environment from the moment you step down the stairs (and perfectly dimly lit), everyone I interacted with was so friendly. I ordered the pistachio affogato, which was beautiful and a very dessert-like drink. I liked that you could either eat the gelato(?) alone or let it melt for a creamier drink. I attempted to take a bite out of the rose but it was extremely frozen, which made it a bit difficult, though I think this was necessary to retain the beautiful rose shape. I do wish I could have tasted a bit more of the cold brew flavor but it wasn't as noticeable as the almond, pistachio, and rose flavors. The rose colored contacts was their taste on a New York sour sans whiskey, with tequila. It was also very good and interesting! I especially thought the cocoa dust on top gave it an added depth of scent and flavor. Really top notch cocktails and I can't wait to come back and try the carrot cake espresso martini. I did also order food and while it wasn't bad, it wasn't anything that wowed me. I do know they're still working out their food menu and it changes often so while I wouldn't reorder the same things, I'd be open to trying it again. I just didn't think it was on the same levels as their cocktails (at this time). An added bonus - they have happy hour during week days -50% off cocktails!!!! An insanely great deal. Definitely come check this out! It's a great happy hour or date night spot.

    Menuuuu
    Rie U.

    TLDR: NOT JUST PRETTY BUT ALSO TASTY The ambience of this place is definitely on point! The cocktails are all very totally photogenic AND super tasty. Honestly, my Duck, Duck, Goose not only came in an adorable ducky bottle but also tasted like a roast duck dinner! And the gooseberry garnish were super tasty too. Wish I could get a bowl of them for dessert. The Hanging Garden was my second cocktail and it was so pretty! Definitely a more herbal and refreshing cocktail compared to the first one, the sugar snap peas and edible flowers gave it a green earthy flavor and the lemon and soda gave it a nice bright touch. Definitely a fun new place to checkout!

    Outside
    Holly M.

    I will say right off the bat everyone from the bouncer to the front desk to every server was extremely kind and welcoming. We had an early reservation to kick off our evening and were seated immediately at the cutest little corner table, tucked away with a perfect view of everything going on. Felt like our own private space. Tried a bunch of things (crudo was excellent and the truffle fries were STELLAR!!) portions weren't giant, I wouldnt say shareable. Every single drink we tried was SO good. I got something with gin, and lit green chartreuse on fire. So so good and was strong. Also LOVED the clear ice. Solid clear ice is a mark of a good bar :) It was so easy to split checks and take care of everything right at the table. Would DEFINITELY come back!!

    Kay P.

    This place reopened from Wicker Park and still has the same great cocktails & group cocktails! They're so unique with wonderful presentation. The decor and ambiance is beautiful, perfect place for date night or girls night out with fun cocktails. Servers are friendly and can help recommend the perfect cocktail! The carrot cake espresso martini is delicious :)

    Caged and Infused
    Mark T.

    I would hope by now my fans know I do everything possible to always keep it real. You may read this review and ask yourself, why, in light of my feedback, I didn't rate Machine a four... or a three, if you incorrectly assume I am tougher and harsher than I really am. Well, I'll tell you... it's because I love Machine Cocktail Bar so freaking much, despite the areas I feel were a little (and I mean very little) shy of what I would call perfection. I had the distinct pleasure of trying: - Hamachi Crudo - Caged & Infused - Kevin Bacon - Breakfast in Bed The Hamachi Crudo: almost excellent. The fish was of very high quality, and the combination of a soy-ginger sauce, the jalapeño mango relish, and the sesame seed topping all led to a wonderful blend of sweet, salty, sour, and umami. However, this balance was offset by the very high acid level of the dish, which overpowered all the other wonderful things the crudo had going on, making them more muted. Caged and Infused: Never before had I been given a cocktail that came with a small hammer! Also, with the butterfly pea infusion, shouldn't it technically be blue? But I digress. This drink had a candy cage on top that almost served as a hat, and the hammer was used to apply gentle violence to break it. The cocktail was appropriately boozy, and the butterfly pea flavors were subtle (as they tend to be even in the tea), but present. Overall, I loved how luscious the drink was. However, my critique, and this is more a personal preference than anything else, is that the drink was very sweet, and this is before the crème de violette candy. While some drinks are supposed to be sweeter, I feel as though the sugar level may have gotten in the way slightly in terms of flavors. Kevin Bacon: A typical cocktail garnish is a lemon, lime, citrus peel, or cherry - all tried and tested, respectable options. An atypical garnish? BACON! I'm not complaining, I am excited! This cocktail was perfection. Unlike the Caged and Infused, while it had some sweetness, it was of an ideal level. The whiskey made itself well known without it feeling like I was drinking it (almost) straight. The other ingredients of persimmon and lemon provided sweetness and tartness, with the soda water adding bubbles and helping the flavors not get in each other's way. Breakfast in Bed (mocktail): In a word, phenomenal! So... the bartender is making a drink and pouring it into a grenade-looking thing. Surprise! This was the breakfast in bed I ordered! The drink itself was flawless in every way: aromatics, sweetness, tartness, a little maple, a little bubbles. It is named just right, truly resembling a breakfast in bed... but one made by a professional chef, not a kid and dad trying to impress mom. Oh, and remember that 'grenade'? While both cocktails and mocktails come with ice, with cocktails, I get at least 1.5 oz of spirit. With mocktails, it too often feels like I am getting a few splashes of liquid and mostly ice. The container was properly filled with liquid, and the glass with ice and bits of cereal (another unexpected and terrific garnish). One is then able to add liquid at their own leisure without worrying that they are being swindled or that the drink is being watered down. The presentation of this mocktail allows for a great transition into talking about their vibe. With a name like Machine, I was expecting a very industrial vibe. What I encountered instead was one of the factors that makes me love Machine so much. The vibe is nothing short of amazing. It is warm, inviting, comfortable, upscale, and classy, with a fantastic use of color, light, branches (!), and sound that is not too loud or too quiet. Everything is well thought out, including the glassware! The final thing that makes Machine so magnetic to me is the service. The bartenders are among the kindest and friendliest folks I have met in my years of going to restaurants and bars. They are not only knowledgeable about the products but also committed to their craft--testing cocktails with the straw-dip-and-plug test to make sure they are producing and serving a quality product. Final Verdict: While considering the acidity of the crudo and the over-sweetness of the Caged & Infused, one could argue that Machine wasn't flawless perfection. With this in mind, it technically wasn't. However, there is so much that is beyond next level that I cannot recommend it highly enough.

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    Thank you for the 5 stars! We hope to have you back into HQ soon!

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    King of Cups

    King of Cups

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    (131 reviews)
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    The best way I can describe King of Cups is to say this place is a VIBE. The theme is all-in on…read moreMedieval, from the lighting to chandeliers, candles, mirrors, chairs, drapes, and even changing digital paintings. It is definitely unique, creative, and a massive differentiator from any other cocktail bar I've been to. Now, let's talk cocktails! The creativity of the interior extends into the menu. Unlike some places that just make variations of existing classics (except for items specifically so named, like the Old Fashioned or Espresso Martini), all of their cocktails are unique and interesting. Time for a punch card? I ordered the Maximillian the Imposter. While I'm not typically a fan of banana (except for banana bread), I thought I'd step out of my comfort zone, and I wanted to try something 'flaming'. Flaming it was! The preparation of the drink involved a surprising amount of fire. I initially thought this was just for show, but no, this translated into a noticeable smoky flavor. Beyond that, the drink was strong, not overly sweet, and an all-around delight. There was one bartender on the night I was here, and while it was busy, I was still able to get my drink in a reasonable amount of time. I also feel as though they have reasonable prices, especially considering the quality and the market rates. King of Cups gets busy, and for good reason: they are an all-around phenomenal place, from the drinks to the vibe, and everything in between. If you're someone who likes a seat rather than fighting through a crowd, get a reservation! See you there!

    What a nice, moody, intimate bar. I came here for happy hour and was pleasantly surprised at how…read moreit's an actual discounted happy hour menu! You know it is these days - most places just knock a dollar off and call it a day. This one is legit! I'd say you should make a reservation for prime time to ensure you'll have a seat. However when it's early no big deal to just pop by. I enjoyed the plum Moscow mule (not too sweet!) and the espresso martini. Both are on draft which made me nervous from past experiences at other places. However, these were great and I LOVED their espresso martini. The bartender was kind and the vibes were off the charts. Check this place out next time you're in Lincoln Park!

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    Geja's Cafe

    Geja's Cafe

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    My friends were wanting to get fondue so we searched online and found Geja's cafe. We came on a…read moreSunday night. The atmosphere was nice and cozy. It was dimly lit inside and there was a guitarist playing music. We decided to do the 3 course Prince Geja's combination. The first course included swiss Gruyère cheese fondue with assorted breads, vegetables and fruits. After that they brought out Prince Geja's combination which was beef, lobster tail, shrimp, chicken breast, and sea scallops which you were able to cook in the boiling hot broth. I really liked how there was 8 different side sauces brought out so you could add some more flavor to the meat and seafood. The last course was chocolate fondue served with marshmellows and a side of fire. It was as if you were making smores because it also came with some graham cracker sprinkles. It also came with some fruits to dip into the chocolate fondue as well. The service was great. It was nice they had a coat check. Our server was very knowledgeable and guided us through the experience.

    A dimly lit, cramped, dark, and friendly space rests a fondue restaurant made for a night out with…read morefriends, date night, or just a desire for melted cheese. A guitarist sits somewhere against a brick wall and plays music lightly but energetically. Service is friendly from start to finish and smiles are on everyone's faces. The menu is pretty easy to understand. You can get a three-course meal, or you can get each entree à la carte. You have two fondue candles in front of you, one for the cheese and dessert, and the other for the oil. We chose the three-course meal, and it was delightful. We started with the cheese appetizer. You get a basket of bread and fruit and we chose the seasonal cheese to dip. The oil for our meat was then left to heat, and we received a massive platter of veggies and meats for our main course. We chose the option for all selections of meat and seafood. After trying all the meats, I would opt for the lobster and shrimp. You can also substitute the oil for a broth. I would like to try the broth for next time. In one of the shakers, Gejas makes their own meat spice mix. It's recommended to put on the meats and even the desserts. It's a mix of tangy and savory and was a great compliment to the meal. We then chose the seasonal dessert, a white chocolate with vanilla cookies. Fruit, marshmallows, and churros to dip. We were so full by the time dessert came, but we enjoyed a few bites and took it home. The three-course meal, with five types of meat, came with about 10 pieces of meat. It doesn't look like a lot of food, but it truly is, with the apps, veggies, etc, your stomach will be full when you walk out of here. They also start the entire course with a mixed salad (so technically it's a four-course meal). It was very fairly priced, as well. Initially looking at the prices, you may think it's expensive, but it truly is a value with the amount of food they serve. This was rated as most romatic restaurant in Chicago. Its ambiance gives you the romantic feel, the guitarist adds to the atmosphere, and the staff is professional and friendly. This really was a great place and we enjoyed our time and meal.

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    Gemini

    Gemini

    4.0
    (764 reviews)
    1.6 mi
    $$

    As a Gemini celebrating my birthday season with other Geminis, it only felt right to celebrate at…read moreGemini! When we arrived, I was a bit concerned because we hadn't received our menus. And that's because the menus were being printed with a personalized birthday message! Our server was attentive, knowledgeable, and struck the perfect balance of checking in without being overbearing. The mussels (provençal-style) were delicious and enough to share among three people. The truffle-parmesan fries: We couldn't tell if they were too salty or just salty enough, but somehow we couldn't stop eating them! I ordered the baby wedge salad with chicken, and while the chicken looked small at first, it ended up being a large enough portion to last the salad. We were also surprised with complimentary desserts: the Chocolate Chunk Cookie Skillet and Buck Russell's Cake. Though I'm not a sweet person, my dining companions thoroughly enjoyed them.

    It's Summer Time Chi season in Lincoln Park. Extensive patio at Gemini is super inviting. Jacob our…read moreserver was exceptional in his engagement & making reco's on drinks and food. Even though half my party was late, I never felt rushed. The FKG mocktail was sweet and flavorful. The Spritzer was a good alcoholic next drink. Truffle Parm fries were a table fav. Burrata was smaller than I expected for $18. Enjoyed my beet salad with salmon. Will def be back and highly recommend!

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    Nice view inside restaurant
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    Le Mistral

    Le Mistral

    4.9
    (14 reviews)
    1.9 mi

    The service is just incredible. That's what stands out the most. We came after having a superb…read moredinner at S.K.Y. and out waitress transferred us to Le Mistral for dessert as we were hoping to end the night with another cocktail. The transition was seamless, the walk through the kitchen was very cool, everyone was very friendly and excited to see guests. Our dessert came quickly to Le Mistral instead of S.K.Y. and was superb. Our waiter at Le Mistral was very friendly, gave some good advice on the cocktails, and was consistently attentive. My cocktail was just OK - sherry-based martini. I don't normally like a martini but all the ingredients actually seemed very much up my alley - the sherry, benedictine, rose vermouth. But the olive just overpowered. And definitely not worth the price of $24... Would definitely return and try the food next time as well.

    We popped in on a Monday night for a nightcap after finishing up at Mon Ami Gabi across the lobby…read more Our experience was meh. I don't know if every Monday is Metal night, but it was that Monday - Black Sabbath, Nu-Metal, everything but the live goldfish. Perhaps they should advertise "Monday Metal at Mistral" if that is to be a regular thing. It does flow off the tongue. To be fair, there was a full house and the other patrons did not seem to mind. We were not looking to feel the noize, however, and so stayed for just one cocktail. Mine was a Sazerac adjacent mix, and it was very high quality. The decor is very low light, but the vibe is pretty basic - more Paint Your Dorm Room black than Parisian Opium Den black. A bit of a missed opportunity for romance.

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    Esme

    4.0
    (154 reviews)
    1.7 mi
    $$$$
    Fine dining
    Private events

    Esmé, consistently One of Our Favorites in Chicago…read more We went to Esmé last night on a Monday and were pleasantly surprised to see both an event happening in the bar and a solid number of diners in the dining room. Not many Michelin starred restaurants can pull that off on a Monday, but Esmé always seems to have energy. This place has become one of our most reliable favorites. They change the menu a few times a year in conjunction with rotating local artists, and the restaurant itself feels more like a refined art gallery than a traditional dining room with white walls, clean lines, simple and elegant. Last night was no exception to their usual excellence. The experience is really anchored by Chris Gerber, a longtime Chicago hospitality pro, and his team. They are flawless. This is true hospitality in every sense of the word. They usually keep two signature dishes, and for good reason. The caviar supplement sounds odd on paper, but in your mouth it is absolute perfection. The cod sounds simple, but it is anything but, rich, decadent, and always one of the highlights. Everything new on this menu was also outstanding. Every course had beautifully balanced sauces that made sense with the dish, and the presentations were creative without being gimmicky or over the top. The plating always ties in with the featured artist in a way that feels thoughtful, not forced. One tip. Be careful when choosing your beverage pairing. We did not read closely enough and ended up with the more inventive pairing that included cocktails and a beer. It was fun, but afterward we wished we had gone with the higher end wine pairing instead. Bottom line. Esmé remains one of the most consistent Michelin starred experiences in Chicago. It is not just very good. It is reliably excellent every single time.

    My rating of a 3 is specifically for the Restaurant Week menu though I'll say it definitely didn't…read moreinspire me to come back. I really wanted to like it; this was a nine-year anniversary dinner. Service was really attentive and friendly and I did appreciate that they brought out specific utensils for me as a left-handed person, never saw that before! The restaurant felt a bit bare and sterile, I think I was maybe expecting a little more decor on the table for a Michelin star restaurant. To echo several of the reviews below, the salad was awkward to share and scanty, the soup was good but the bread served with it felt like an afterthought, the sturgeon wasn't anything special though the sauce was quite good, and we are pretty sure the cut of beef was not wagyu or if it was it was not cooked the right way. The beef was the most disappointing part, I couldn't even chew through all of it. The add-ons were the best part - pasta was great and our dessert was delicious. But the rest of the meal was unfortunately mediocre. Hoping that others have a different experience with the regular menu!

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    Esme
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    Willow Room

    Willow Room

    4.2
    (430 reviews)
    1.3 mi
    $$

    Loved everything. Delicious really great foods. Group of four, zero complaints. The service was on…read morepoint. Nice wine pour. Bright fun atmosphere. I thought for the quality and portions and fair prices this is a really great choice. Looking forward to returning.

    Chicago Restaurant week. I reviewed various dining options in search of a good place for dinner…read more Reddit gave me some ideas. I'd never been to Willow Room and liked that they had a four course dinner menu, with items I liked. I was able to make a reservation for a Saturday night at 8:15pm. PARKING Parking on Halsted on a Saturday night can be a nightmare, and it did take a minute to find street parking. North of the 1800 block is busier because there are several restaurants within a two block radius. Side streets are permit parking after 6pm. Meters on Halsted are $2.50/hr. ATMOSPHERE Willow Room was pretty packed. We had a reservation for 8:15pm and my party of two was seated right away. The restaurant features a full bar, dim lighting and is nice and roomy. They have banquette seating around the perimeter, in addition to tables in the middle. SERVICE Our server, who was very nice and accommodating during our dining experience, came by and gave us our menu's. I had already decided on the RW menu and after review, my friend was interested in the Beef Wellington (not on RW menu). Our server informed us that normally the whole table had to order off of the RW menu if one person does, but said she would check with the kitchen since this was the last day of RW. Luckily, we were able to proceed with ordering from different menu's. FOOD I ordered a raspberry Cosmopolitan. I'm a Riesling/Moscato girlie, but I tasted the Riesling and didn't like it. RW dinner was priced at $60. I ordered: First Course: Caesar Salad (Typical salad, was good) Second Course: Mussels (Tasted fine, came with a baguette) Third Course: Short Rib (Could've been slightly more tender and better seasoned. I've definitely had better. Wouldn't order again.) Fourth Course: Orange Ricotta Donuts (Donuts were very good. Three were served, a few more would have been more filling.) My friend ordered a glass of Pinot Noir and: Truffle Fries (Fries were very tasty. I would order again if I went back.) Beef Wellington (The breading was buttery and very good. The beef could've been more seasoned. I wouldn't order.) Key Lime Pie (Was not sweet and had no taste. When our server came back and saw it was uneaten, she offered to take it off the bill. It should be removed from the menu altogether.) The busboys and server were very attentive. Our water glasses were always filled. OVERALL The atmosphere was nice, our server was great. Of all the food we ordered, I would order the truffle fries and Cosmopolitan again. I did leave full and did take my leftover Short Rib to go. Main dishes needed more seasoning. I would dine here again and try a different menu (brunch/lunch), or Happy Hour if they offer it.

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    Willow Room
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