Ralph Lauren Restaurant Review

                  

                                                                                          Overall:  4/5

http://www.rlrestaurant.com/about.asp

I have to admit I was a bit taken a back finding out Ralph Lauren had a restaurant. I couldn't quite picture it.  However, upon entering, I felt I had inflitrated a very British Club House, gaining assess to an exclusive display of wealth and luxury. Comfort seemed key to this design, with a large fire place at the entrance and large soft leather chairs and booths to relax in. 

The menu was based around American classics such as Caesar and Waldorf Salads, Steak, Crab Cakes and Club sandwiches as well as the all American Burger. 

I went for the Lobster Bisque -$8.50 to try something I never had before and I have to say I would choose it again and again. It was smooth, creamy and full of flavour. My only criticism maybe that I had about one chunk of lobster in it, a couple more would have been ideal. 

I also sampled the Tuna Nicoise Salad- $22, which again was on top form with Tuna was cooked to perfection.

For dessert I shared the Creme Brûlée (Bourbon-Madagascar Vanilla with Seasonal Fruit)- $8, which lived up to my high creme brûlée standards with a nice hard caramel top. 

However, unfortunately I do have to report some negative aspects. Firstly, when ordering we were notified that the restaurant was out of Oysters,which was a disappointment, along with bananas of all things. This seemed strange to us as they could easily have gone down the road to get some (no banana splits for us). 

Secondly, we were served the wrong glass of wine and after disputing that it had to be right, as the waitress saw it poured, she then brought the right glass of wine. I therefore had to mark the restaurant down for these two points. 

Overall I would recommend visiting Ralph Lauren Restaurant for the high quality food and ambience.

Tavern on the Rush

Overall: 4.5/5 

http://www.tavernonrush.com/tavern-on-rush.html

This is a fantastic American Steakhouse.

I have to say, it was the best steak I have ever eaten. I definitely felt I had got the Chicago Steak experience. 

Firstly, before ordering, we were given a masterclass in steaks.

A plate containing the different cuts and an explanation of its whereabouts on the cow, how it is cooked and its texture. 

I went for the Petite Filet Mignon $29.95 - medium rare. It was cooked to perfection- cut through like butter. 

Others sampled the Chateaubriand $38.95 per person (minimum two people)

Carved Tableside – Marinated center-cut beef tenderloin served with grilled vegetables 

and béarnaise sauce and also a 20 ounce steak - I think that may have been a bit much.

The verdict was that the Chateaubriand was the Winner and I would recommend it and Tavern on the Rush to anyone wanting a great steak in Chicago.

After all that meat .... we had a tray worth of desserts brought out. 

I had never tried Key Lime Pie before (middle dessert on the picture) and I have to say it was delicious. 

The Restaurant is seperated on two floors - The Lower Floor contains a horseshoe shaped bar and the upper floor an open kitchen. Both are enclosed with large glass windows allowing great views over the streets of Chicago. 

This is a high quality, great service restaurant and therefore high priced but you definitely get what you pay for.

When on a trip to Chicago, its well worth a visit.