Chicago 2008 - we

I had always thought the subdued bistro that sits in the W Hotel City Center was a French-sounding, American-spelling play on "yes". However, to my dismay, I learned when preparing to post this entry that the restaurant believes its style to be a homage to a Tuscan-inspired steakhouse "ristorante" (hence the full name ristorante we). Luckily, my disappointment in having incorrectly explained the concept innumerable times to friends does not carry over to my views of the fine "bistro".

When one enters the subtle, rich decor at we and sinks into one of the comfortable banquettes or lounge chairs which ring the oval tables, you feel both ready to relax and enjoy a fine meal and wine. we is a particularly great find when you are wandering around the somewhat-desolate-on-the-weekends Loop district on a cold, wintry afternoon.

The only complaint I have about the comforting decor is that it is somewhat interrupted by a bit too much power in the over table lights. Forgiving this, however, is quite easy when the service staff approaches with the menus.

The staff is incredibly accomodating, and allowed our group to order off both the breakfast and lunch menus. Even just stopping in for food, you feel like a hotel guest. The food, as usual, did not disappoint; innovative and perfectly executed. Beautifully prepared and presented pesto eggs dotted with small boules of hand-crafted mozzarella and a pancetta "moon"; light, thin blueberry pancakes served with crispy bacon; a think and juicey 'steakburger' with scrumptious truffled fries glistening with melted parmesan.

A great standby for the denizens of downtown on the weekend, before a show, or for a fancy "bistro" (no, I won't stop calling it a bistro) lunch during the business week. . .