SCALLOPS IN THE WINDY CITY

RL RESTAURANT - CHICAGOWhile the weather outside is still frightful - I'm dreaming of a dish that is delightful!!  On a recent trip to Chicago I found a pleasant surprise in an unexpected venue.   First I must say - I LOVE Chicago.   As a native New Yorker, I'm always suspect of any city, but especially one known as "The Second City".   Well in the food department - Chicago is second to none.   There are so many terrific restaurants offering modern, delicious fare - you would have to visit very often to hit the best spots in town.  On this trip I finally made a reservation for the one spot that I had avoided time and again.  RL.    Now to be clear - I love Ralph Lauren and I'm a huge fan of everything Polo,Lauren, and just about anything with that polo playing logo.   However, with all the great restaurants in town I never felt the need to also eat at Ralph's restaurant - RL.    Then one day I realized, if it's good enough for Oprah (a regular), how can I not give it a try.   I'm glad I did.   The decor is comfortable with a very American brasserie /GRILLED SEA SCALLOPS - RL RESTAURANT - CHICAGO country club feel.   Think stuffed leather club chairs and wood paneled walls.    

I'm a sucker for scallops so when I saw grilled Sea Scallops on the menu, I couldn't resist.   The photo says it all.  They were just tender enough, just grilled enough, with a slightly spicy, tangy, crust.    After a long day of work, this plate of scallops with my favorite cocktail - was just what the doctor ordered.  

If you visit Chicago, RL is a great place to have lunch or dinner.   Sunday brunch is also an institution.   Have your hotel make reservations to ensure a great table!  Also, for the chocolate lovers out there - Valerie Beck's chocolate tour is NOT to be missed.  Ms. Beck is the founder of Chicago Choclate Tours, and she will take you to the most decadent, delicious purveyors of all things chocolate that fill the city! (Who knew?).   click coo coo for Coco to learn more!