The Smith

The Smith Restaurant Review:

About the restaurant & décor: This River North location of The Smith doesn't have the same intimacy as its New York sisters, but it holds its own appeal, right down to the tiled floors, amber lighting and cozy booths. And while it's big city, no one seems to be trying too hard. Walk in and be comfortable in jeans and a leather coat, or breeze by on a weekend for brunch on the patio in your activewear.

Likes: Service is on point, and it's a fun place to dine with friends.
Dislikes: There's no music in the background, but that could be a good thing. This dining room booms with voices and laughter.

Food & Drinks: Unfussy, yet not unremarkable dishes make this a local's favorite. Seafood is a staple, with fresh Manila clams and oysters available by the piece. Maybe you want a steak without the stuffiness of some Chicago chophouses; you have that in the tender Smith bar steak, a tender cut served with fries or salad and your choice of three sauces (we went with the green peppercorn for kick). Pasta is nicely portioned; a wild mushroom bucatini isn't smothered in sauce. Brunch highlights Sicilian baked eggs, fried chicken and waffles, a Ranchero scramble and breakfast pot pie. Finish with familiar apple pie – crisp and sweet. Global wines come by the glass, carafe or bottle.