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Food, family, and Ron Swanson (a fan-favorite character played by Nick Offerman from NBC’s Parks and Recreation). What more could a Chicago foodie ask for? Thanks to Rick Rodriguez and his WHISK {2018 West Chicago Avenue, Chicago; 773.252.9060} team, amazing Chicago food is accessible and welcoming. In addition to their original Wicker Park location, they also have Son of a Butcher by WHISK {2934 West Diversey Avenue, Chicago; 773.687.9709} and a new WHISK location in Wrigleyville {3720 North Clark Street, Chicago; 773.360.8587}. Everyone can get their Swanson on! Rodriguez tells us the secret behind their delicious success.
DiningOut: How did you first come into the food world?
Rick Rodriguez: When I was 15, I started working at McDonalds, then became a dishwasher and busser. Once I started working the line, I never looked back.
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What sets apart your restaurants in Chicago?
We are about simple, good food. No frills. We want to create a welcoming environment to everyone, be it a girls night out or the whole family getting brunch.
What do you want people to feel when they dine with you?
Like they are being welcomed in to someone’s home.
What do you love most about the Chicago food family?
No matter who is who or where you come from, there is a mutual love and respect to all. Its truly a community.
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WHISK is first and foremost a breakfast-focused spot. Why did you focus the restaurant like that?
Because morning food is a totally different culture. Its almost a new world to people outside of Chicago because it is almost a state of mind: to brunch.
You’re also BYOB! What are some alcoholic options you think pair well with your menu overall?
There is no wrong way to drink at brunch, but we like to keep it classic with mimosas.
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One of your more famous menu items is The Ron Swanson Burger. What do you love about Ron?
Everything! But especially because he is just truly himself, which is something we want everyone that come in to feel. We want them to be, well, themselves!
You have a new location opening in Wrigleyville!
This location is going to be a full bar for pre-, post-, and rain out games, as well as brunch from 10am-4pm. Then, we switch to burgers, dogs, and tacos! We still have Ron Swanson all over the walls, but in this location we are adding Leslie Knope (played by Amy Poehler) and Li’l Sebastian (a reference from the series) into the mix!
How is Son of a Butcher alike and different from WHISK?
WHISK has the brunch, but Son of a Butcher is dinner, with burgers, barbecue, and tacos on the menu. We pack in the comfort food! We have a full bar, with crafted cocktails by our head bartender Leah Huff. It’s a great spot for date night, a few drinks and apps with friends, or a full family event.
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What are some of your favorite menu items at each restaurant?
WHISK: chilaquiles, the David Special, and The Ron Swanson Menu.
Butcher: all the tacos, the Pambazo Burger, and the drinks!
Wrigleyville: Lobster Truffle Fries
What else is coming up at your restaurants for the summer?
Right now we are getting Wrigley open and rolling. So keep an eye on specials and possible events by following us on social media!
By Kaleigh Glaza | Online Editor
The post In the Kitchen with: Rick Rodriguez, Owner of WHISK and Son of a Butcher appeared first on DiningOut Chicago.