It has been a while since I have ventured out to try a new restaurant, so last weekend I made plans with my girlfriend to stay downtown and try something different. We decided to visit The Purple Pig on Michigan Avenue. I had read many positive reviews and decided to check out the buzz.
The restaurant was very busy. They don't take reservations so when we arrived the hostess told us it was an hour wait. We were determined to wait it out and enjoy a drink in the heated enclosed patio area and chatted with some other patrons. The wait was really only about 15 minutes.
Their menu is designed to be served tapas style. I was mostly impressed with the variety of dishes offered. They also have an excellent wine selection and a helpful sommelier.
Our first course was Foie Gras Rillette which was outstanding. It was creamy, smooth and accented with micro greens and reductions that made my taste buds hit every end of the spectrum.
After the rillette, we sampled one of the "smears," a Greek dish called Taramasalata. It was very good, a little lemony with grilled Tuscan bread to dip.
Our third course was a dish of Kobe Beef braised short ribs, which were amazingly tender and packed full of flavor!
We decided to end our night with the house made gyro plate. This was my favorite dish of the night. We will absolutely visit The Purple Pig again. Their menu had so many amazing choices and changes regularly so there is always something new to try.
Leaving a place like this always inspires me to cook at home more. After you visit your next favorite restaurant, consider checking out a cooking class at The Chopping Block. We have classes every day that can teach you how to make dishes just like the ones you enjoy in your favorite eateries! Try French Sauce Workshop or Tapas Party and learn how the pros prepare and present their great dishes. Our just-released March calendar is full of our favorites!
