Mt. Beautiful in Chicago

“It is hopeless for the occasional visitor to try to keep up with Chicago. She outgrows his prophecies faster than he can make them.” – Mark Twain, 1883

Chicago* was only 46 years old when Mark Twain wrote those words, but it had already grown more than 100-fold, from a small trading post at the mouth of the Chicago River into one of the nation’s largest cities, and it wasn’t about to stop. Over the next 20 years, it would quadruple in population, amazing the rest of the world with its ability to repeatedly reinvent itself. And it still hasn’t stopped. Today, Chicago has become a global city, a thriving center of international trade and commerce, and a place where people of every nationality come to pursue the American dream.

Chicago’s signature dishes are true American specialties, and although they can be found in various versions and adaptations around the country, classic Chicago-style food is only done right in the Windy City itself. These regional specialties include deep dish pizza, hot dogs, Chicken Vesuvio (chicken sautéed with potatoes, peas, herbs and spices) and Italian Beef and Giardiniera (a variation on the French Dip sandwich – thinly sliced roast beef, sautéed green bell peppers and sauce on a roll).

Chicago is an amazing city with a rich history. We are proud that you can find Mt. Beautiful wines in some of her best restaurants and stores. Read on to learn about some of our favorite restaurant and retail partners in Chicago.

Bandera

Bandera has been a family owned and operated collection of restaurants since 1976.  Genuine hospitality, simple dishes exceptionally prepared, and attentive service are the guiding principles behind their efforts. Along with live Jazz in the evenings and an all-around comfortable atmosphere, Bandera, features an exhibition “kitchen in the round” which lets the preparation of every plate take center stage. Observe the sizzle of their wood-fired rotisserie where slow-roasting techniques are perfected for select entrees. Signature dishes include the Chicken and Spinach Enchilada with Beef Tenderloin, Barbecue Beef Back Ribs, and the House-Made Oreo Ice Cream Sandwiches. Manager, Kristine Lopez ensures that your visit is delicious and totally enjoyable.

Emerald Loop Bar and Grill

Emerald Loop offers lunch, dinner, late night dining and weekend breakfast. Located in the loop at the corner of East Wacker and Wabash in the old Jeweler’s Building…perfect spot to grab a pint with your co-workers after work or for dinner before a show! The menu is large and diverse, but their signature items are the Irish Specialty items including Fish & Chips, Bangers & Mash, Shepherd’s Pie, Fresh Burgers, fresh cut fries and oversized entrée salads. The Vaughan family is happy to share a bit ‘o the Emerald Isle with their guests. Their warm hospitality, coupled with delicious food, wine, beer and full bar keep their customers coming back again and again!

Andy’s Jazz Club and Restaurant

One of Chicago’s best-known and most-respected Jazz establishments, Andy’s offers casually sophisticated dining, with a musical menu of Chicago’s top Jazz artists. Local performers cover a range of styles from Traditional and Swing, to Bop, Fusion, Latin and Afro-Pop. Their “Spotlight Performer Series” events showcase some of today’s most “in demand” musicians in an intimate setting. Owners and Jazz aficionados Jeff and Chris Chisholm love creating unforgettable experiences for their devoted customers featuring the best of food, wine and Jazz.

Red Lion Pub

Andersonville Wine and Spirits

Feel like staying in and picking up a bottle or three for the evening? Check out Andersonville Wine and Spirits! This family owned specialty liquor store has been serving Andersonville and the North side of Chicago since 1990. They pride themselves on exceptional service and great prices. They carry a huge selection of wine, beer, and spirits from the best regions and producers. Their staff tastes through hundreds of products every week and selects items according to taste, value, and knowing what many of their regular customers will like.

We hope you explore these wonderful venues. Stay tuned for more of our travel and restaurant tips.

Have a Beautiful day!

Your friends at Mt. Beautiful

*Chicago history courtesy of http://www.cityofchicago.org.