Zagat

2 months ago

10

“Both sophisticated and hip”, this “memorable” West Loop “fine-dining staple” from Paul Kahan and company puts out “thoughtful, precise” New American dishes “bursting with flavor” alongside a “well-rounded wine list” and “unique” cocktails; if the “small”, “minimalist” setting can be “noisy”, that’s just part of its “terrific energy”, and the “bargain” prix-fixe lunch special only adds to its appeal.

Michael Cohen

9 months ago

6

Ate off the a la carte menu. The food was underwhelming for the price and relative to other high end dining spots in Chicago. Maybe they just had an off night

Michelin Guide

1 year ago

10

⭐ | In many ways, an acclaimed restaurant that opened in 1997 may seem like old news, but Chef/owner Paul Kahan continues to enliven this Chicago original with fresh talent and new flavor. The interior is small but packed, right down to the last lunchtime bar stool. Everything feels glossy and white, accented with high-back leather banquettes and orange placemats that pop with color at the bar. Service is sharp, busy and handling it all very well. Begin your unique dining journey here with a warm, poached Maine shrimp salad tossing meaty bacon and pickled walnuts with segments of tangy orange. Then segue into a perfect marriage of salinity and sweetness by way of the ultra-crisp potato-wrapped sturgeon fillet accompanied by tender gnocchi, laid atop a bed of steamed mussels and finished with a luxurious sauce Parisienne. Desserts at Blackbird are equally intricate and inspired, including that divine combination of crunchy apple-cider donuts with creamy cinnamon-laced ricotta, a rich mostarda, as well as a cooling scoop of buckwheat ice cream. Dinner may be served as a ten-course tasting menu that shows just what this capable kitchen can do. Lunch is an astounding bargain.

Fabio Caiazzo

1 year ago

8

Great food quality, but overall menu not too creative

Cristin Pacifico

1 year ago

8

Wonderful service. Great wine program and beautiful food presentation. The duck was delightful!