This popular spot is pretty much a staple in our books year-round. Whether we’re parked on the deck during summer months for a cocktail and bar snack, or looking for an escape from the rainy days of winter, Joe Fortes (777 Thurow Street) offers the perfect atmosphere (not to mention top-notch cuisine). The recent launch of their fall/winter menu was more than enough to tempt us in for a night of tasting.
After a peek at the cocktail list (which we’d normally go for), we opted to sip on wines that would work with the suggested dishes new to the menu for the season.
For starters, we ordered the lobster bisque (with Atlantic lobster), poured tableside. To accompany this, we noshed on beef carpaccio served perfectly sliced with crispy capers, roasted garlic, grana padano and grainy mustard. It was seriously melt-in-your-mouth good.
For mains, it was a complete toss-up (and we were already feeling quite full!). Joe Fortes’ menu always features a wide selection of fresh sheet items featuring the markets best seafood, shellfish and more.
New to their menu, the Steelhead Trout caught our eye, though the Arctic Char and Spring Salmon were equally as tempting. Our dining companion opted to go for the classic lamb shank served with perfectly roasted and caramelized root veggies.
As if we needed it (which at this point we truly didn’t), we’d opted for a few ‘sides’ to accompany the main meals and tasted Joe Fortes’ famous creamed spinach and fried pickles – because you just have to!
Post-dinner, we were seriously wishing we’d worn our yoga pants; alas, having arrived to the restaurant directly from the office, that wasn’t the case. However, believe it or not, dessert called and after carefully scrutinizing the dozen or so options we found a sweet solution. Pavlova filled with vanilla custard and piled high with fresh berries and seasonal fruit fit the bill.
Feeling tempted for a foodie fix? Be sure to check out the latest offerings at Joe Fortes this season. With their multiple levels, cozy atmosphere, live music and boisterous lounge-like setting, you’ll all but feel transported to the heart of old-town Chicago or NYC upon entry.
Need more convincing to make Joe Fortes your go-to spot for your next cocktail-infused Happy Hour? Between 4pm and 6pm, their special Happy Hour Menu offers 50% off a variety of eats – not to mention an endless array of new cocktails to try.
