Nathan Ver Beek
Latest Reviews
The Smith
Really enjoyed our brunch at The Smith. We have visited a Smith before in New York City, and we are glad that the Chicago location carries forward the same quality and experience.
Both our dishes were very good. The goat cheese omelette is fluffy and smooth. It does have a lot of spinach, so be prepared for that. The Vanilla Bean French Toast should probably be illegal, it is too good. Every single bite is better than the last, and you can't stop eating until the plate is clean. The side of bacon is very good but a bit pricey.
One awesome note is that for brunch, certain menu items get you a free brunch cocktail. We chose mimosas but there are other options available. This is a nice little perk that makes the value of the meal much more attractive.
We visited right at open and the service was very efficient and pleasant. Absolutely will consider stopping in again next time we are in town.
Both our dishes were very good. The goat cheese omelette is fluffy and smooth. It does have a lot of spinach, so be prepared for that. The Vanilla Bean French Toast should probably be illegal, it is too good. Every single bite is better than the last, and you can't stop eating until the plate is clean. The side of bacon is very good but a bit pricey.
One awesome note is that for brunch, certain menu items get you a free brunch cocktail. We chose mimosas but there are other options available. This is a nice little perk that makes the value of the meal much more attractive.
We visited right at open and the service was very efficient and pleasant. Absolutely will consider stopping in again next time we are in town.
Mertens Rooftop
We've visited Mertens Rooftop before, but had the unique privilege of visiting today with no other patrons. The views and summer breeze are second to none in GR, an excellent experience.
We have not tried the food, so we cannot comment on that yet. If Mertens proper is any indication though, it's likely awesome.
While a bit on the pricey side, the spritzers are unique around here, so it's fun to try the different flavors.
The service was good, even with a trainee on her first day, we were impressed by the speed and attention.
We have not tried the food, so we cannot comment on that yet. If Mertens proper is any indication though, it's likely awesome.
While a bit on the pricey side, the spritzers are unique around here, so it's fun to try the different flavors.
The service was good, even with a trainee on her first day, we were impressed by the speed and attention.
SIDEBARGR
Really enjoyed our visit to Sidebar! This is an excellent place for a cocktail. The bartenders/mixologists are great. Everything we tried was very good and unique, and gave us a big city cocktail feel.
The bar is very small, with seating for less than 20 people, so come prepared to wait. We were very lucky to get right in, but most after us had to wait for an open seat. This only adds to the exclusivity of the place though, and was a welcome change of pace from the usual sports bar type feel.
Update 2023: Everything about SIDEBAR from my original review still applies. I wanted to make a special shout out to the mixologist Drew who was there for both our visits. He was nice enough to make us special custom smoked drinks of his own design, which were excellent!
The bar is very small, with seating for less than 20 people, so come prepared to wait. We were very lucky to get right in, but most after us had to wait for an open seat. This only adds to the exclusivity of the place though, and was a welcome change of pace from the usual sports bar type feel.
Update 2023: Everything about SIDEBAR from my original review still applies. I wanted to make a special shout out to the mixologist Drew who was there for both our visits. He was nice enough to make us special custom smoked drinks of his own design, which were excellent!