My husband and I came in for a lunch reservation and sat at the bar. I had been hearing great things about the burger. When I asked if it was a smash or pub style they said pub style. I asked if I could request a temp-i was surprised they didn’t automatically ask…usually thick cut burgers they do. I requested for a medium rare temp and they assured me it was cooked typically at medium rare. Unfortunately when it arrived it was about medium well-almost well done. My husband really did not want me to say anything or send it back and we were hungry so I left it be. I would just keep in mind, if you’re selling a $23 burger, please temp them. Other than that, the flavors were all there. The caramelized and raw onions, all made for a great burger. If it was cooked properly I would have put it up there with top 5 pub style burgers.
We also ordered the fish sandwich which was really excellent. A super nice crispy piece of fish and the slaw on it was nice and fresh.
The fries, while expensive, were some of the best most properly cooked beef fat fries I’ve had. Proper chips and I loved the melted leek aioli.
Overall a nice experience but I’d like to come try something else.
Now that one of the biggest hurdles to visiting has been cleared—the fact that you can finally make a reservation—there is absolutely nothing stopping you from enjoying this Lincoln Park gem. John's Food & Wine manages to be both upscale and inviting with its decor, though you should probably sit as close as humanly possible to your dining companion if you actually want to hear what they’re saying over the noise level. Whether you’re tucked into a table in the back or perched at the bar, the service is excellent and sets the tone for a fantastic meal.
The menu is a bit of a moving target, but there are some absolute non-negotiables. The beef carpaccio is a mandatory order; if it isn’t officially a signature dish yet, it’s only because the rest of the world hasn't caught up. I was also pleasantly surprised by the Endive Salad, which managed to be a win without a hint of bitterness. While the ever-changing nature of the menu means the seafood pasta we loved might be a ghost by the time you visit, the Snake River Farms Denver Steak is a regular staple for a reason. It arrives perfectly seasoned and tender, accompanied by beef fat fries that are exactly as decadent as they sound.
To wash it all down, the GUAVITO is a brilliant, easy-drinking introduction to the cocktail list that really opens up the palate. That said, major props go to the Ketel Martini; it was delivered with the kind of aggressive saltiness that my "extra dirty" heart requires. If you have any remaining dignity or stomach capacity, the Flourless Chocolate Cake is a rich, delicious way to admit defeat. It’s the kind of neighborhood spot that makes you glad you finally secured a seat.
Delicious food and great atmosphere! Staff was amazing and very attentive making sure everything came out and timed perfectly and our glasses refilled with water between courses. Food was absolutely divine! My friend and I split the bill and had 2 apps and 2 main courses and one dessert as well as some refreshments (2 glasses of wine and 1 soda) and it came out to be a little over 100 each. Which i think is reasonable for the atmosphere and the intimacy of the restaurant. The hamachi crudo and beef carpaccio in my opinion were the highlights of this meal. 10/10 experience.
Absolutely amazing food and service! Their seasonal menu offers incredible local flavors! Their wine list is also outstanding. My favorite dishes are the seasonal salad, the beef fat fries and whatever the seasonal pasta dish is always hits! And don’t sleep on the desserts too.
A gem of a place with absolutely delicious and different fares. Every dish on the menu is creative. I have been there twice and ordered entirely different items both times. I would reorder the entire menu if I could.
