Alpha Food Wine... member for 39 weeks 4 days Send a message

I like unique things. From people, to where I visit and I eat, I look for "unique" experiences. With so many "five star" this and "five star" that, you have to be on the look out for the ones that fly under the radar. There is one restaurant that has managed to do just that, Pierrot Gourmet! This European-style cafe and wine bar is as quaint as they come. Tucked away next to The Peninsula on Rush Street, you would't really know it existed unless someone told you about it or you were really paying attention to your surroundings. More than likely, you would simply walk on by.

The first impressive quality about this unique cafe is the the seating arrangement, which seats approximately 42 guests. If you are feeling friendly and social then this is the place to eat. With communal seating you are bound to meet some interesting folks and break bread (or tartines) with them. Yep, that's right. You have the option of eating at either of their two larger communal tables or two of their smaller ones with complete strangers. I have done it several times myself and have enjoyed it so much that I have introduced my friends, family and business associates to this secret little place. It has come to be one of my favorite places to eat, have a cup of tea, read a paper and meet people.

The second quality is the food. Don't be fooled by the simple menu, it offers a great selection to make your mind wonder if you are making the absolute best choice (it is run by the Peninsula kitchen). From breakfast to dinner they offer a variety of options to please even the most finicky eater. It is also a bakery too! You must try their fresh homemade soup. Like the cafe, the soups are unique and unbelievably delectable- sure to awaken your taste buds and give them a brand new epicurean experience. In addition, they carry a wide selection of fine wines for the most experienced wine connoisseur to enjoy with their fabulous meal. They also host exclusive wine tasting events, where they bring out some of their best wine and introduce great wine makers. They teach even a novice like myself about the finer things in life!

The setting is cozy and warm. Many of the staff are from abroad and add to the quaintness of the cafe. They are kind and very friendly too. Alfresco dining is available in warmer weather and seperate seating for the not-so-social folks too. So, even if you don't want to share your tartine with a stranger, no need to fret, you can still join in the experience because they do offer private tables too!

It is open seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sundays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. They have breakfast, lunch and dinner and offer a la carte too. This truly is a cafe worth checking out! A great time to really get a sense of the place is on Sunday mornings when you see strangers sharing conversation over a hot meal! Directions and information here; View Their Menu Here

If you want to make a whole day out of it, The Peninsula has one of the most renowned Spa's in Chicago, known as The Peninsual Spa By ESPA. My personal recomendation,:take a girlfriend, your lover, spouse, friend and pamper yourself. Spend the day relaxing with facials, massages, manicures, pediucures and live like a queen. Top the day off with a relaxing, scrumptious meal and some fine wine at the cozy Pierrot Gourmet! You know you want to and you'll be glad you did. You deserve it, baby!