Jeff J.'s Profile

In summary: the perfect burger and killer fries

My wife and I really wanted for a great burger, and Polkers did not disappoint.  We both had the Bacon Cheddar Burger; I had the curly fries, she had the regular fries (we both though the curly were better). I also enjoyed the IPA beer on tap...yum.

I go to the Grafton about once every two months. I'm always happy with the food. Order a pint of Guiness plus the Grafton Burger w/Bacon, Pepper Jack Cheese and a fried egg on top....and order a side of curry for your fries. Not only will this be one of the best burgers you'll ever eat in the city, but the curry sauce is absolutely killer.

Service is pretty good, but note that this place is often packed so you'll have to wait for a table and standing room is a bit awkward.

Ordered take out this evening. Convenience high (we live a few blocks away), price low, food average.

Orange Chicken is pretty good, and Crab Rangoons are great. Would not recommend Shrimp w/Brocolli as it comes in a weird, jelly like sauce. Potstickers are huge (which is appreciated), but could be more crispy.

My wife and I ate at Cascadia a few years back, and we absolutely loved the place. This was the first restaurant where were able to truly pair up food and wine. I'm surprised the sommelier didn't sit down and eat dinner with us as he spent a good chunk of time with us. The chef also came out and spoke to us between courses, which was nice. Thumbs up all around...can't wait to get back to Seattle and back to Cascadia.

BYOB asian fusion (thai + laotian + japanese + ?) just opened up in September.  In summary:

-Good value
-Great service
-Lots of variety
-Most dishes were excellent (loved the Red Dragon Roll and Spicy Peking Noodles)
-A few dishes lacked in flavor (I have a feeling they are working out some kinks)

Tthere is $1 per bottle of beer charge since they're food is at a lower price point and they don't want people to take advantage of their space (ie - a large group sits down for 3 hours and orders appetizers won't help the bottom line).  That makes a lot of sense to me although it's not going to fly.

I love Essence of India. My wife and I have lived in Lincoln Square for three years, and we have spent a lot of money at Essence, both dine in and delivery. You can always count on Satya and team in delivering a first rate meal. I especially love the Butter Chicken and the Keema Nan. My wife loves the Veggie Korma with added cheese.

We had always wanted to try Vermilion, so my wife got us a reservation there. In summary, take a pass.

Upside:
-The ambience was great (aside from it being dead inside).
-The service was good.

Downside:
-The food was mediocre at best - I was really disappointed as I was confronted with some great smells when we walked in the door.
-The food was terribly overpriced

Save yourself some money, and head to Devon street or Essence of India in Lincoln Square. If you really must have the fusion concept, head to Marigold in Uptown.

I love this place, I can't believe I waited until today to check it out.  The staff is super friendly, and the place has a nice comfy vibe to it.  I especially love the back room.  It's nice to see coffee shops like this, the Grind, Metropolis and Intelligentsia in Chicago.