Pacific Standard Time Erling Wu-Bower Pacific Standard Time

Pacific Standard Time

141 W. Erie St.
Chicago, IL 60611
312-736-1778
Map
Cuisine: California
It's California dreaming on such a (Chicago) winter's day at this River North restaurant.
Openings: Lunch Mon.-Fri., Dinner nightly, Brunch Sun.

Features

Pacific Standard Time, Chicago, IL


Pacific Standard Time Restaurant Review:



About the restaurant & décor: With a wide open floor plan and all-around windows to let the light flood in, this neutral-colored, wood-heavy restaurant makes for an inviting stop on a dreary Chicago day. That’s the California influence coming through, which doesn’t end there. Diners hole up at two- and four-tops or at the wraparound bar, where they can take in the people-watching or sneak a peek into the exhibition kitchen boasting twin hearth ovens. While the food is upscale, the eatery isn’t stuffy.

Likes: Unfussy atmosphere; stylish food.
Dislikes: Tables might be a little too close for a private conversation.

Food & Drinks: Executive chef Erling Wu-Bower (who opened Nico Osteria) delivers a menu that is inspired yet not bound by West Coast flavors. The hearths play a central role; look for wood-fired pizzas (andouille and shishito is a standout) and pitas laced with marinated ahi tuna, roasted eggplant and beef tartare. Vegetables are solid on their own, from the wood-roasted broccoli with cashew and pearl onions to the citrusy delicata squash. A tempura-fried rockfish breaks through blandness with kimchi aïoli, ginger and cabbage, while dishes such as suckling pig, whole heritage chicken and roasted Slagel Farm rib-eye embrace Midwestern wholesomeness. Desserts aren’t afterthoughts thanks to former Grace pastry chef Natalie Saben. The Huckleberry Sundae tempts with buttermilk cake, spiced meringue, honey ice cream and basil. Naturally, West Coast wines from Oregon, Washington and California complement the menu, along with a sizeable selection from Europe.