Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad
Beatrix

Beatrix

519 North Clark Street, Chicago, 60654, United States Of America, 60610-4215

Brunch • American • International • Breakfast-brunch


"Beatrix isn't your average restaurant. It's a chameleon, effortlessly shifting from sun-drenched brunch haven to chic bistro as the day melts into dusk. I've popped in for both, and let me tell you, this place has serious charm in every iteration. The menu is a celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients. My go-to? The ricotta and lemon pancakes. They're pillowy soft, infused with a hint of citrus, and practically melt in your mouth. Don't even get me started on the housemade strawberry jam – it's like sunshine on a spoon. As the day deepens, Beatrix transforms into a cozy oasis. String lights twinkle overhead, casting a warm amber glow, and the chatter softens to a gentle hum. It's the perfect setting for an intimate dinner date or a catch-up with friends. The dinner menu is a touch more refined, but still playful. I devoured the pan-roasted chicken with root vegetables and a decadent truffle glaze – it was pure comfort food heaven. And let's not forget the cocktails – the grapefruit Paloma is a tart and refreshing masterpiece. But Beatrix is more than just good food (although, that's definitely a major draw). It's the little things that make the experience special. The staff is friendly and attentive, always there with a smile and a refill. And the open kitchen adds a touch of theater to the whole affair – it's mesmerizing to watch the chefs work their magic. P.S. Don't leave without trying a slice of their famous caramel pie. It's gooey, it's salty, it's perfection. You'll thank me later."

Alta Strada Fairfax, Va

Alta Strada Fairfax, Va

2911 District Avenue Suite 150VA 22031, 22031-2279, Fairfax, United States

Pizza • Italian • Ice Cream • Bar-lounge


"We live next door to Alta Strada and have been there a number of times. When I made the reservation (seven adults one 9 year old) I told them that this was a birthday celebration for six of us who had birthdays that week. The big one (we had balloons and a cake) was my wife’s 70th birthday. I called in advance, told the manager of our upcoming celebration and asked for a particular table. I was told “no problem“. Yet, we were seated in a completely different area. Kenny was our server. He was wonderful; but he was somewhat unsure of the menu and and other things since it was only his second day working at the restaurant. I don’t understand why you would assign a rookie to a large party, particularly one that chose your restaurant to celebrate a special occasion. But, his service was fine. Our food was good. But I must say, the portions are getting smaller and smaller. And through (I believe) no fault of our server, my wife’s meal was missed and ended up coming out significantly after ours were served. Finally, knowing that the restaurant management (that I had spoken to) was on site, and with balloons high in the air to show where we were sitting, how is it that no one other than our gracious server Kenny stopped by to wish us well and ask how things were. I’m sure we’ll eat at the restaurant again, but we’ll plan all our special event get togethers elsewhere."