Thursday 29th of April 2010 09:48:02 AM

link
Opening night! Finally open after a few months of anticipation.

First impressions were very promising all around. Arrived at 5:30 and hung out at the bar as many more patrons streamed in. Inside there were dark wood floors and a nice dark wood bar in the front room. Table seating between the bar, and booths lined the walls. Exposed brick in places, with red walls in the front, and shades drawn on the many windows that face the Montrose/Damen corner. The room was very comfortable, and it was obvious they paid attention to all the details.

At the bar, two chrome tap towers held 13 taps each, with a free standing Lindemans tap and two beer engines. Tap selection was varied with many import and craft gems. Notably Cantillon Kriek, FFF Topless Wytch, Ommegang BPA, Lagunitas Chicago Fusion, New Holland Envious, and a host of others. Bottle selection was also deep with coverage of many styles. I noticed Drie Fonteinen Oude Gueuze, a Boon Lambic, also a couple from Jolly Pumpkin. As it was opening night, it was draft only for more expedient service. If you've ever been to the Beer School bar at Sheffields, you know you're in capable hands here (same beer guy, Phil).

Service was great at the bar, even as the place filled up with the opening night crowd. Waters were kept full, and there was a crazy selection of glassware. Prices on everything were quite fair, and refreshing to see when so many other "upscale beer bars" tend to gouge.

Food was good, I had the "swine swoon" a pork shoulder sandwich that was very tasty. Frites were crispy and double fried. Hangar steak and pork belly sandwich at the bar looked great too. Hearty food, though they had salads and a couple veg options.

Overall a great new addition to Ravenswood, i'll be going back many times. The rooftop garden will be the place to be this summer...