chasing michelin stars

People always ask me my top 5 favorite restaurants, Spiaggia will definitely always hold a place in the top 10. Its one of those dining memories that will always be “special” due to the atmosphere, food, location, and the people you dine with. Located on the famous North Michigan Ave, Spiaggia’s cathedral like windows gives you a glimpse of the not-so-clean, but still pretty coastline at night. 

Karen and Curtis - the happy couple. Yes, I am the third wheel. But do not feel sorry for me, my date is flying in after dinner.

Amuse bouche - chickpea salad

Golden spaghetti - cream, dill, caviar, oysters

My starter was almost the perfect bite. The pasta was nicely crunchy and mixture of cream and dill did not over power each other. 

Osetra caviar - with condiments

The perfect bite - blini, caviar, creme fraische, chives

Karen’s starter is one of my absolute top 5 favorite ingredients. So many delicious things compacted into one small bite, talk about serious food envy. Luckily, Karen is very generous and shares. =)

Entrees just hit the table.

 

Risotto.

This is a horrible picture but was so scrumptious!!!!!! The veal sweetbreads and the fried quail eggs were the icing on the creamy risotto. This was one of those, do not eat more than two bites because you will regret it later, moments. However, will power did not prevail here. 

Venison.

Curtis’s entree was one of the highlights of the dinner as well. The meat did not taste anything like game, and was cooked to a perfect medium rare. God bless the sous vide. 

Veal chop.

The perfect dining experience to me if from the beginning to the end. Every bite from the first sip of wine to the last petite four has made some sort of impression on your mind. Three years ago when I went to Spiaggia for the first time, it was a very memorable night. The atmosphere, service, food, ambiance, and company were all perfect. I had veal three years ago that the taste of the meat still lingers in my memories. It would suck if tonight did not live up to my expectations. Luckily, I was not disappointed. Tonight’s preparation was more of a traditional seared veal chop, but just as tasty. 

Karen and me. Full and buzzing… very happy. 

Cheese plate - the perfect dessert. 

Petite fours - truffles and candied orange slices, oh my… 

Spiaggia was a wonderful end to the first Michelin eating day excursion in Chicago. I could not have been more in heaven…