Rioja

This was my first time at Rioja and what an outstanding experience! I’m a Chicagoan so my standards are high…Rioja was such an invigorating Valentines weekend dinner! This spot is dripping in atmosphere and is so cozy. Their complimentary lavender sourdough and goat cheese biscuits were so tangy, buttery, and a great start. We went with the prickly pear barramundi agua chile and a half order of goat cheese gnudi as appetizers. The gnudi was heavenly and I could easily have eaten an entree size - so pillowy, and smothered in perfectly seasoned lamb ragù. The barramundi was refreshing and as a prickly pear lover the flavor was on point. For our mains we went with the pistachio crusted duck and Thai chili pork. My duck was impeccably cooked and melt-in-your-mouth. We loved the copacetic flavors of the dates and sauces on the dish! The pork was also so juicy and the Thai inspired sauce the veggies are cooked in was excellent. For dessert we chose a valentines special- flourless fudge torte, rose scented whipped mascarpone, strawberry cava consommé. This was one of the best desserts I’ve ever had - every bite of the rich fudgey torte was imbued with a citrus flavor, and the carbonated cava was such a fun pairing! Every bite was like a perfect chocolate covered strawberry with a sip of sparkling wine. We truly loved this meal - the servers were all so kind and attentive too - and I’ll be back soon to try out their lunch!

Absolutely love the food and atmosphere. I have been to Rioja multiple times but this was the first I sat at the chefs counter. Sean was full of knowledge and was able to give me a detailed explanation of each dish he prepped and made. Truly a wonderful experience. Everything cooked to perfection, dessert and wine were spot on and I look forward to my return. Chefs counter was a dining experience like no other. Thank you Sean and the wonderful staff at Rioja. 10/10. I started with the beets and burrata which was insanely good and complemented it with the grilled bavette steak (medium rare) and finished with the dessert special Sumac Strawberry Chocolate Mousse Torte. Glass of Querceto Sangiovese was the perfect match to it all. Thank you again for all of the beautiful creations you make.