Swim Over to The Diver

The Diver, located at 601 N Wells St., is a recently opened seafood focused restaurant in the River North area. Inspired by tropical enviroments, the decor has a beachy feel to it that pairs well with the cuisine offered inside this modern establishment. The open air concept with large windows and a small outdoor patio works well in The Diver's favor, especially during times like these, where we are at times stuck indoors.

Many will recognize this hot spot as the previous home of the Flamingo Rum Club. Co-owners Adolfo Garcia and Phil Stefani have transformed the space into this new concept and the mural outside of flamingos will soon be painted over by original aritst JC Rivera. Being on the corner of Ohio and Wells, this bungalow-styled dinner and brunch restaurant is easy to find and locatd in a bustling part of Downtown Chicago.

Guests are transported to an exotic getaway at The Diver thanks to a menu that is fresh and tasty. Cocktails are a big focus at The Diver, so feel free to explore. The Pacific Rose combines vodka with wild berry puree, basil, agave syrup and jasmine bitters. That's a drink will make you want to take a midnight swim!

Mezcal is used in several drinks such as the Tulum Mio and Night in Oaxaca, where just the right libations are paired together to give diners a lift to their spirits. The Diver's maragaritas bring tastes of citrus, mint or watermelon as part of the recipe to mix with tequila and create a refreshing beverage to wash down the seafood bites.

The guacamole served with chips is good all on its own or add some lobster, crab or pork belly to the flavor for dynamic results. Another good starter is the lobster quesadilla with my favorite cheese of them all, chihuahua cheese. This chipotle crema, spicy poblano pepper and pico de gallo stuffed into a tortilla dish was a standout in both taste and execution.

The blue corn tortilla tacos can come with chicken or seafood toppings such as cod, mahi, lobster or shrimp. You can't go wrong with the ceviche on the menu and make sure to try the Mango Aguachile with shrimp, mango, red onions and greens.

Sergio Sanchez and the gang have a way of being confident in the kitchen that shows in the presentation and the assembly of ingredients. This is crucial to this new project and adds to the feeling of being on a vacation when visiting The Diver. As traveling is very limited these days, a restaurant like this one is invaluable after a long day at the office or on a sunny weekend.

Swim over to DiverChicago.com for more information, such as hours and booking a reservation.