potatoes and shallots).
From the verduras section
(vegetables): Setas (sautéed
wild mushrooms and cana de
cabra cheese).
Since the dessert menu changes
often, the waiter will let you
know what choices are for any
given evening. We asked for
a recommendation and were
brought a dessert very similar
to traditional an, but with
texture of a cheesecake. It
was downright divine.
Absolute standouts include fried
and stuffed medjool dates medjool
dates are the most prized and used
to be reserved for royalty) and
wagyu skirt steak – tender with
intense marbling and full of avor.
My friend praised the pork cheeks
and we both indulged in the sautéed
wild mushrooms.
I should mention that El Tapeo has
an excellent selection of wines and
champagne, handcrafted cocktails,
and a signature Sangria. Hours are
6 to 10pm Monday through Thursday
and 6 to 11pm Friday and Saturday,
with extended bar hours.
El Tapeo in Le Meridien
Chicago-Oak Brook
2100 Spring Road
Chicago, IL 60523
Phone: (630) 828-2044
www.eltapeorestaurant.com
Meson Sabika
Whereas El Tapeo is one of
Chicago’s newest tapas restaurants,
Meson Sabika is just the opposite;
it has been open since 1990, serving
guests and actively promoting
Spanish culture through food,
music, and art. Located in the
historic Willoway Manor, you feel as
if you are entering your rich Uncle’s
home. The ambiance is elegant, yet
the mood is familial and inviting.
Lace curtains lend a European
gentility and refinement, as do
the ceramics, vases and mosaics.
and food allergies. There appears
to be an overwhelming number
of choices, but that is primarily
because the menu is divided
between cold tapas and hot tapas –
with many choices under each
category. What is particularly
notable is that the menu easily
accommodates vegetarians, as well
as those on a gluten free diet.
These dishes are notated on the
menu. Given the variety of choices,
this is ultimately what we ordered:
Meson Sabika
Patatas con Alioli
Cold Tapas
Escalivada con Queso – Portobello
mushrooms, peppers, onions, fennel,
asparagus, tomato, and fresh
mozzarella cheese on toast points.
Meson Sabika
Pimientos del
Piquillo
Patatas con Alio