I believe it was two Julys ago now that Bryan and I stepped into Le Colonial for the first time. Having passed the lit awning and smart-looking valets on Oak Street on more than one occasion (and on Rush at their old location), my curiosity had gotten the better of me, and we made a reservation for 2 one evening.
Perusing the menu, I stopped at the sight of garlic noodles, shaking beef, and fun cocktails like lychee martinis, and decided almost immediately that this would be one of my new favorite spots for a quiet meal. I wasn’t wrong.
Each time that we’ve travelled back to Chicago, we’ve made a point to stop in for a fancy lunch. Every visit, we’re surrounded by those who “dress for dinner,” and the atmosphere- while far from stuffy- seems to be one of calm elegance; there are orchids on the tables and fine dish ware being passed.
Our meals have found some constants (like the aforementioned garlic noodles), but each visit, we add something else. The crispy shrimp and pork rolls were a surprisingly good recommendation, and at the whim of the hubs this last trip, we ordered the baby back ribs which were phenomenal. I’m a big fan of their chicken and cabbage salad, dotted with chili crisp, grapefruit sections, and peanuts. Perhaps the most show-stopping item we’ve ever tried was the whole fried snapper, presented by a beaming waiter tableside before being whisked off for de-boning and sectioning. It was a stunningly light and perfect meal to share when we were there with a friend last month.
If you’re lucky enough to grab lunch or dinner at this oasis of a spot while in the Windy City, I’d recommend a table on the veranda. The huge glass windows overlooking Oak Street’s boutiques and century-old architecture contrast the palm-frond interior, but for dinner or a date night, the lounge is a dark, sexy spot with oversized art and dim lighting.
Wherever you sit, and whichever location you visit (Le Colonial now has spots in Delray Beach, Houston, Denver, and more), I hope you enjoy. I’m almost sure you will.
** this post is not sponsored in any way. all thoughts and opinions are my own **
** photos via Le Colonials’ website and social medias **
