Custom House Tavern

500 S. Dearborn St. (Congress Pkwy.) Send to Phone

312-523-0200 | Make Restaurant Reservations

Price

$$$$$

Aaron Deal redefines the tavern concept at this modern-minded seasonal spot.

Cuisine

Open

Lunch & Dinner daily

Features

Private room(s)
Full bar
Reservations suggested
Valet parking
Business casual

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Dining room at Custom House Tavern, Chicago, IL

Shawn McClain has ended his partnership here to focus on Spring and Green Zebra. But don't shed tears! Aaron Deal (ex-Gramercy Tavern) is in the house, and change proves positive. No longer offering a menu about steaks and the sides you expect to go with them, the kitchen’s approach has shifted to emphasize tweaked tavern fare made with ingredients from regional farms and artisanal purveyors. Some highlights include a saddle of rabbit with rabbit sausage, sea island field peas, baby carrots and bacon; and grilled Wagyu sirloin with 8-Ball Stout beer-braised short rib with barley risotto and smoked mushrooms. And don’t worry: the standout burger remains a constant. The Printer’s Row space is awash in warm hues with floor-to-ceiling windows, flagstone accents and a window that allows diners to peek into the hectic kitchen. Service is never snooty and is versed on the menu. The wine list---which focuses on boutique and sustainable bottles---has expanded its by-the-glass offerings. Look for more seasonal, forward-thinking cocktails, too.

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Custom House by Glossyp on 09/28/2009

This is a lovely restaurant and the service was worthy of five stars. The food was quite good though we were disappointed with the signature dish of braised short ribs - they were not particularly flavorful and the horseradish puffs had the merest whisper of that tangy bite one expects. The best dish of the night was the beef tartare which delighted us. The pommes anna with house made bacon was also excellent. The 'Black Chicken' zinfandel was a good match for the meal. Dinner for two plus the wine came to just around $300 - I think we'll try them for lunch next time!