Cigar Friendly Restaurants
by Ben Brasilia
 
Spago
 

Perfection has arrived in Chicago. Wolfgang Puck and his crew have opened the doors to one of the best spots in town - new or old. We want to provide the food but more on this subject later. Letís start with Service. From the reception desk to the bus boys everyone smiles and has been properly trained. All wait staff has been educated about the wines and will take the time to discuss your selection. (The stemware is beautiful). The wine list is one of the best in Chicago with a terrific variety from most major wine stores. Not inexpensive but not off the chart. We are not great believers in you have to drink red wine with meat, etc. but the variety of food flavors at SPAGO requires more than a little time in selecting an appropriate wine. This is where your server can be of great help.

The menu changes to some degree every day so expect to find new favorites every visit. The cuisine is eclectic and that is a strong point. Quality standards are the highest and preparation and presentation superb. It is difficult to guide you on specifics but we have sampled three (3) exotic soups including chestnut and all have been great. Entrees cover all bases but if lamb is on the menu go for it. As mentioned, presentation is artistic but not at the expense of generous portions and carefully selected complimentary sauces. The menu has a Pacific Rim feel but there is much to select from.

Dessert selection was as expected - wonderful! Here again imagination rules and choices change constantly. You cannot make a bad choice.

Now for the extra special treat - you quietly walk upstairs and enter one of the finest places in Chicago to enjoy a cigar and drink. This is a cigar lovers paradise - plush- club-like and relaxing. Don't worry if you've forgotten your favorite cigar or just want to try another premium brand. SPAGO'S humidor is filled with all kinds of goodies and not priced out of line. O.K. light up and order! Order your favorite port - single malt - small batch bourbon or whatever. The whatever is the key -SPAGO is the only Restaurant we've discovered that offers - Chateau Dygurm (89) by the glass. If you haven't experienced D'ygurm the $46.00 price will shock you - treat yourself you deserve this liquid manna from heaven.

SPAGO is a complete dining experience. We have only addressed the main Dining Room in this review but don't miss their Grill Room which we will write about in the future.

Reservations are a must! This is where all the hip-ín-beautiful people are coming to be seen as well as to dine in a great setting.

 Valet parking available - Most major credit cards accepted

Main Dining Room open seven days a week for Dinner

Sunday - Thursday - 5:00 - 10:00 P.M.

Friday - Saturday - 5:00 - 10:30 P.M.

Grill open for Lunch daily - 11:30 - 2:30

Dinner - Sunday - Thursday - 5:00 - 10:30 P.M.

Friday - Saturday - 5:00 - 12:00 P.M.

Cigar Ban seven days a week - 5:00 P.M. closing.

SPAGO 520 N. Dearborn St.
Chicago - 312/527-3700

 
FOOD - 4 CIGARS
SERVICE - 4 CIGARS
WINE - 3-1/2 CIGARS
PRICING - EXPENSIVE
 

 
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