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Review Thu Jun 04 2015
The Local Chicago: Comfort Dining in the Loop
Nestled within a cluster of upscale hotels in Downtown, The Local Chicago is a patriotic sort of restaurant. No sleek-font signage or melodic backdrop music--instead, there are wood panels, flags, and star-bedazzled plates that belong in the Civil War era. The menu reflects the ambiance and inspires comfort and familiarity.
Dinner is an assortment of indulgences: braised pork belly sliders (with fennel slaw, fried quail egg, roasted garlic), hot sauce chicken drummettes with blue cheese dressing, ale steamed mussels (with grilled scallions, fresno chilies, chorizo), a tomato seafood stew, beer battered fish and chips, and shrimp scampi linguini. The ale steamed mussels and chorizo were a good combination, though the broth could've used more garlic or an acid component. The tomato seafood stew followed a similar flavor profile, and generous portions of lobster, scallops, and cod were enjoyable.
The shrimp scampi linguini was cooked beautifully al dente, and the parsley and preserved lemon added a refreshing touch. For dessert, we had a decadent chocolate chess pie from Hoozier Mama Pie Company. I'm not fond of overly sweet desserts, and this pie managed to fit the bill.
Overall, portions were American (aka generous) and flavors were innocuous (nothing too salty or sour or spicy). The restaurant's proximity to Michigan Ave is an attractive factor too, if (window) shopping is your thing. Surrounded by more upscale venues, Local Chicago is your low-key and family-friendly option.
All photo credits: Anthony Barlich
The Local Chicago
198 E Delaware Pl
Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 280-8887
