NUNN ON THE RUN

Bit by the Dragon Ranch

Sat. January 19, 2013 12:00 AM
by Jerry Nunn

Busting out of some of the most highly successful restaurant and nightlife venues is Dragon Ranch Moonshine & BBQ located at 441 N. Clark Street. The newest River North hotspot comes from the creators of Rockit Bar & Grill, The Underground and Sunda New Asian. In some ways this is a combination of the places before it. There are Asian influences, American comfort food and music spinning on the turntable.

Founders Billy Dec, Brad Young, and Arturo Gomez are on a roll with this one. With the help of Chef Shaun Connolly they go over the top. It's obvious that Connolly knows how to mix styles and elements of cooking with his Kendall College degree even spending time cooking in Ireland.
Communal seating on benches makes things cozy and diners either love it or hate it but it is necessary in a venue where people are waiting over an hour to win a seat.

Deviled eggs have become the rage for late night eating and theirs are tangy with bacon, red chilis and wasabi tobiko. The mac n cheese is a must try and already had raves reviews from the people at the same bench. Chinese steamed buns are offered late night with pulled pork or brisket. There is even chocolate bread pudding if you have a sweet tooth.

Moonshines offered include the white Dragon Ranch containing 92 proof or sip on the county lightning version served in a mason jar. Specialty cocktails to try are the cranberry crush with cranberries and moonshine or hit the moonshine sling with fresh pineapple and cinnamon simple syrup. Sake and Japanese whiskey will take guests around the world.

CEO and nightlife guru Billy Dec treated me like family and took time out to chat even though the place was hopping. This was the place to be as everyone seemed to enjoy the atmosphere created by the place.
Currently there is even a brunch at 10:30 am on the weekends. We will see how their biscuits n gravy compares to my southern mother. If the epic bloody mary is part of the meal I'm sure there is nothing to worry about.

Reservations are recommended and can be found under Open Table or by calling 312-955-1900. Delivery is offered through Grub Hub. Visit www.dragonranch.com for more details today.

MORE CONTENT AFTER THESE SPONSORS