I celebrated a special occasion royally
Mar 2019 — Earlier this month I turned 74. I celebrated early by attending the last performance of a comedy show on February 27. No vegetarian restaurants in my neighborhood were close to the show, so I checked www.happycow.net . After perusing menus, I settled on Althea by Matthew Kenney on Michigan Avenue, a little north of the Loop.
Wow! The customer service, atmosphere and food created an unexpected treat. Althea is on the seventh floor of Saks Fifth Avenue. Although I arrived without a reservation, the hostess warmly welcomed me and let me select a table that offered a view of the Magnificent Mile. While waiting I focused on the walls’ artwork and my table’s plant decorations.
After the waiter took my order, the server continuously filled my water glass until she brought the creatively arranged starter and entree, which tantalized my taste buds. I closed my eyes to mindfully enjoy every bite.
Because of the efficient service, I had adequate time to arrive early for the show and mix with others in the audience. Once the performance began, I roared with laughter from beginning to end.
My actual birthday was also the day for The Plant’s monthly indoor farmers market, where I purchased vegetables not usually in my grocery stores. Then I headed for B’Gabs Scratch Kitchen for lunch and a slice of Chef Gaby’s delicious uncheese cake.
I treated myself to avocado toast and pad thai salad, which, like Althea’s fare, were ample and tasty. I was afraid that I would have no room for the pineapple uncheese cake, but I somehow managed.:)
How did the two places compare? Both offer music and display professional artwork; B’Gabs’ is for sale. Both chefs provide creatively arranged, scrumptious raw or cooked dishes from local sources; B’Gabs, larger portions. Althea offers an inviting view of the Magnificent Mile and more efficient service; B’Gabs, half a block’s access to the Metra on a quiet street. Althea charged for atmosphere/location; B’gabs, more reasonable prices/less formal furniture. Althea closes late; B’Gabs, at 3 p.m. and on Mondays.
Fancy Vegetarian/Vegan Restaurants in Chicago
Althea by Matthew Kinney 700 N Michigan Ave; 11-8 M-Th, 11-9 FSa 11-5 Su
Bad Hunter 800 W Randolph St; 11-10:30 Su-Th, 11a-11:30p Fr, 10-2 & 5-11:30 Sa, 10-2 Su
No Bones Beach Club 1943 W North Ave; MWTh 4-10, FSaSu 11-10; no dinner
Have you visited a fancy vegetarian restaurant? What did you like/dislike about it?