 The name clues you in at this inviting Lincoln Park restaurant from chef/owner Jason Paskewitz (Gemini Bistro). Dimly-lit and covered head-to-toe in woods, from the floors to the furniture, it features bare walls, candle-topped “chandeliers" and a small back bar that serves a full menu. A romantic-yet-lively place, its dishes are “rustic,” too, from whole farm chickens to suckling pigs and Maple Leaf duck slow-roasted in a glassed-in rotisserie oven that's visible from the dining room. Also on offer are simple, comforting pastas like veal ragoût over house-made pappardelle and such sides as creamed corn brûlée; creamy, three-cheese potato grain; and a broccoli-chile-fennel combination. A decent small-plates lineup can work as starters or mini-meals, be it buttery pork belly with a maple glaze or smoky, wood-charred octopus. Pair up the plates with selections from the thoughtful wine list, which is filled with affordable yet sophisticated bottles and glasses. Otherwise, turn to local microbrews, bourbons, cordials and classic cocktails like the Sazerac. Desserts shine just as bright; most notable is the chocolate soufflé alongside creamy chocolate gelato; it's finished tableside with a pouring of vanilla crème anglaise into its molten center.
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