Esquire by Cooper's Hawk presents a new visiting chef series

Oak Street shines brighter now that Esquire by Cooper's Hawk has returned to dining room service. To kick things off the popular restaurant chain offered a visiting chef series menu. Now through May 21, 2022 patrons can visit the Esquire to sample Bravo's Top Chef judge Tom Colicchio's work. This James Beard Award-winning chef has curated seven items that are not to be missed. 

Colicchio's selections range from the air to the ocean with lobster and duck dishes for guests to devour through the end of May. Things finally feel like spring in the Windy City thanks to this fresh new menu.

The sea urchin and peekytoe crab fondue is the perfect way to begin your culinary journey. This rich and creamy appetizer is served in a special saucer bowl and is simply out of this world. 

The lamb brought us back down to earth and was served over cranberry beans. It was filling, but not too heavy. The Esquire's regular menu has returned with even more unforgettable and new items thanks to executive chef Nate Henssler. I recommend the mouth-watering trio of prime filet medallions that have a little crunch to them thanks to the scrumptious parmesan encrusted toppings.

For dessert, the firefly has a quirky Italian mix of lemon tartufo, citrus curd, bitter lemon cake and blueberry preserves. That original taste left a lasting impression and paired well with a splash of coffee to wash it down. The seven-layer chocolate cake was also delicious thanks to whipped Valrhona white chocolate and dark chocolate sauce. 

All the dishes can be paired with the numerous wines presented in this iconic establishment that was formerly the Esquire Theater. This is the first restaurant in the chain to be opened with the "by Cooper's Hawk" title. There is a wine tower holding 1,600 bottles from around the world, five private rooms and an outdoor space as well. 

Head over to 58 East Oak Street to sign up for the wine club, take a tour of the wine tower and stay updated on future guest chef tastings. Reservations can be made through Open Table or by calling 312-736-9999.