Thursday 21st of October 2010 10:53:41 AM

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Owen & Engine is a new British-style gastropub on the outer edge of Logan Square.
It's in the vein of The Publican and Longman & Eagle, but more casual.

The main draw for me was the 4 beer engines behind the bar, which the place is partially named after. Their niche is decidedly English, but the beer list is well rounded with an equal number of choices from the UK, US, Belgium, Germany, and others. An imperial pint of Two Hearted on cask is always a fail safe option too. We had Batemans XXXB and Fullers 1845 with dinner. A few things on the list you don't often see, like Leelanau and Meantime London Porter, mixed in with local classics like Daisy Cutter and Krankshaft ($5). The beverage director Andrew stopped to talk beer with us, and mentioned they will be sending out casks to be filled, so look for a rotating selection in the future.

Food was really great, very hearty and tasty. The burger was a blend of short rib, brisket, and ground beef, hand formed and served on a homemade toasted brioche bun. It was really unique and delicious. Fish and chips were also tasty, they serve fresh Haddock, which is flown in often apparently. The wings also looked good, I saw several others at the bar enjoying them. 2nd visit for brunch, tried the beef hash and pastry plate and both were great.

Service at the bar was really top notch. Our bartender Tracy was really nice and on top of things. We were offered samples of the cask ales, and I got a freebie short pour of Dupont when the keg had issues mid-pour.

The atmosphere was pleasant, lots of wood trim and leather. The bar chairs had a nice rest on the back, and they were comfy. It felt like being in the study or drawing room of a British estate, with somewhat high ceilings and chandeliers. It was Colonel Mustard in the library with the candlestick! Upstairs the room was smaller, with a fireplace and leather chairs in addition to a smaller bar for 6-8. 4 cask engines upstairs (same casks) and ten drafts.

O&E is destined for greatness. They are doing it right, and have their own niche. The odd location makes it more of a destination, and I hope it doesn't get overrun like Kuma's or Hopleaf. Time will tell...

10-01-2010

Wednesday 20th of October 2010 03:44:37 PM

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Owen and Engine just opened up and presents and upscale English pub style. The building is brand new thanks to a tear down of the dreadful building that used to sit on that land. There are two floors, complete with dining in the first floor with a bar and the second floor has some tables, some couches, and a fire place.

The location is across the street from a movie theater and I believe the owners are banking on people stopping in before or after movies.

The food is definitely upscale, but done very well. Nothing is really cheap (cheapest beer is $5), but you are paying for and getting quality. The beer selection is really extensive with many imports and a ton of brands I had not had the opportunity to try before.

The staff is very knowledgeable about everything on the menu, so if you have a question just ask.

Best way to sum up: you pay for quality.

Nothing is cheap, but everything you order (beer or food) is high quality and generally worth the money. Go in with those expectations and you'll have a great experience.