On Saturday night, we put on our fancies and went to 8pm dinner reservations at Table Fifty-Two. The restaurant is in downtown Chicago on Elm Street and run by Chef Art Smith and Julie Latsko. Table Fifty-Two calls itself "the home of Southern hospitality in Chicago." Smith was Oprah's chef for many years and has traveled the world learning about different cuisines. I would describe his dishes as fancy "comfort food."
The chef sent out his deviled eggs presented on a small platter. They were tasty but could have used a bit more vinegar but aren't they adorable? The best part? They have tiny potato chips in the dressing on top.
We dined upstairs in the high-ceiling dining room. The decor is very Southern and makes you feel like you are in a Georgian mansion somewhere near the shore. The walls are papered in wide strips that reach to the paneled white chair rail. I was also impressed with the fresh flower arrangements on the tables. Flowers - to me - show a bit of extravagance and allow the patrons to feel pampered while eating.
Casey's sister Jordan met up with us and we even toasted our reunion with Melody with pink bubbly.
I ordered the lightly breaded, fried Catfish. It was beautifully presented but over-salted and lacking layers of taste. The service was wonderful and someone was always on hand to refill our water glasses and we had a charming waiter.
We had a lovely time. The wine was rich and smooth and the atmosphere was such that we could lean in and comfortably talk about life. I don't care for restaurants that play music so loudly you have to shout over your dessert. Plenty of time for girl talk which is what I was hoping for!
2 comments
I really liked my dinner. But I think my favorite item on the menu is the fried green tomatoe salad.
Sorry you didn't like the catfish! We will have to try something else next time.
CC
I HAVE to try that next time. I loved the place - fantastic!
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