With Labor Day fast approaching, it’s important to make the most of every last minute of our Chicago summer. To do so, we definitely recommend stopping by Le Colonial {937 North Rush Street, Chicago; 312.255.0088} for upscale French-Vietnamese fare on their balcony or outdoor patio. The Gold Coast row house location gives an intimate dining experience that is elevated by a uniquely delicious food and bar program. We spoke with Director of Operations, Sales, and Marketing, Lillian Dembinski, about what to eat and drink this season, and why Chicago is such a premier dining destination…
DiningOut: What do you want people to experience when they dine with you?
Lillian Dembinski: We hope that dining at Le Colonial is evocative of many sensations—great ambiance, company, food, and libations. We love to showcase the culinary traditions of Vietnam, using time-tested recipes and techniques our chefs have honed over the years, all while using fresh, high-quality ingredients. What’s great about Le Colonial is that you can visit for many purposes, ranging from a business lunch to a quick bite while out shopping. Le Colonial is also perfect for a romantic candle-lit rendezvous or a lively night out with friends.
What are some of your favorite menu items right now?
I’ve always loved the Ca Bam Xuc Banh Trang (monkfish) and the Ca Chien Saigon (whole red snapper).
What wine or cocktails would you pair them with?
A Kabinett Riesling from the Mosel or our Lychee Sangria.
How does the bar program enhance the overall dining experience?
We encourage family-style dining by ordering several items off the menu to share at once among the table. Our cocktails explore a range of flavors and are flexible with menu across the board. Sharing is usually inevitable with our cocktails too!
How do you concept new cocktails and beverage pairings?
We keep the season in mind, as well what herbs, spices, and fruits are showing best at the moment.
What are some wines people should be sure to try while summer lasts?
Riesling! It’s such a versatile grape and can make wines ranging from light and lean, to rich and weighty… bone dry to gloriously honeyed… even wonderful sparkling wines. The quality to price ratio is absolutely astounding!
How would you describe the overall Chicago food community?
World-class, convivial, growing, evolving, and incredibly exciting! The camaraderie in Chicago in the food community is exceptional.
Also, diversity in everything: cuisine, style, neighborhoods. There’s truly something for everyone here.
Aside from your restaurant, what are some of your favorite spots in the city?
There are so many! Well, The Girl and the Goat is where I love to take my out of town guests. The food is amazing every time. RM Champagne has the best patio and such great ambiance. In my neighborhood, I stop in at Eight Bar for the best burger in town. That, and upstairs at Maple & Ash, are my go-to spots.
What do you have coming up this fall?
We are working a new Happy Hour and the chef is working on new bar bites for our upstairs lounge.
By Kaleigh Glaza, Online Editor
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