Café popolari a West Loop

This was a lovely experience! The seating was comfortable, the tables far enough apart to keep noise and claustrophobia away, the food was outstanding, the service charming and kind, the drinks were brilliant. Food: Even simple seeming stuff had complex flavors, the steak was PERFECT, the sauces original. The cocktails had a LOT going on (we ordered what seemed like relatively interesting ones).

Julianne is the best!! Hopefully Starbucks Reserve is paying her well 😁 She is so fun, personable, and knowledgeable. I learned a ton about the art/technique of making an espresso martini!

The restaurant week menu for Publican Quality Meats has to be one of the hidden gems in Chicago. My wife and I really did not know what to expect when we walked in to an empty restaurant, to say I had some misgivings is an understatement but I have to say, this was a thoroughly enjoyable evening. We shared the entire restaurant with another couple and we had a wonderful evening with some excellent food. Each dish was excellent and showed off the Chef's talents. The Pate en Croute was phenomenal and the Beef Bourguignon topped off the evening. My wife and I could not finish the dish so we had it wrapped up and our son devoured the leftovers when he came home from work. Out waiter gave us a handout for the Austrian wine tasting menu and we already purchased tickets for that evening. All I can say to the party of seven that cancelled their reservation that night is that you made a Big Mistake in doing so. You missed out on an excellent meal.

This is a gorgeous spot with incredible food. The space is small, but very atmospheric. I am thrilled to have found this place, I will definitely be returning.

Cool and eclectic atmosphere. Creative but grounded menu. Looking forward to trying at a time when i’m not overstuffed from late lunch.