Another eatery has opened along the Mag Mileand this gem won't be hidden for long.
Sophie's at Saks Fifth Avenue ( 700 N. Michigan Ave., seventh floor; sophies.com ) is every bit as exquisite as you'd expect an eatery in that store to beand, fortunately, the food backs up the ambiance.
Additional photo spread at the link: www.windycitymediagroup.com/gay/lesbian/news/photospreadthumbs.php .
Sophie's Executive Chef Alex Reyes and Chicago Executive Chef Ron Aleman have created items that exceeded my expectationsincluding the elusive crab cake. Aleman insisted I try the item after my admission that I'm a crab-cake snob, having come from the Chesapeake Bay area. Thankfully, it turned out to be one of the best cakes I've had in Chicago ( with Riva's on that list as well ); however, Aleman's crabs are flown in from Indonesia, he said, and the cake has substantial meat filling in, with just enough breading to hold it together.
However, the other items are no slackers, either. The intimidatingly named "Capuccino of crimini mushroom soup" is a savory concoction that incorporates truffle froth, porcini dust, olive oil and chive crouton. The lobster roll is one of the best around, and the Amish breastwhile not the same size portion one might find at other eateriesis satisfyingly succulent.
Round out your meal with dessert. The coconut bread pudding is a top choice, hitting the spot without being too sweet.
Even the bread service is impressive, as servers offer several different types of bread, along with various spreads ( chutney, tapenade and butter ).
Also, take note that the prices are on par with other establishments on North Michigan Avenue. The lobster roll is $23 and the North Atlantic salmon is $25, to provide a couple price points. However, for $24, there is the "Lunch Break," which covers a starter ( soup or salad ) and an entree.
By the way, Sophie's has something very few other places offer: models. During my visit, a very tall, thin ( and amiable ) model sauntered by in various St. John outfits. Looking fetching in said outfits, she would say things like, "And this is only $1,795"except she said it as "seventeen ninety-five," which I hope doesn't fool someone into thinking the dresses are at Forever 21 prices.
Note: Right now Sophie's is open 11:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. ( with the cocktail menu available for two to three hours afterward, depending on the day ), so plan on a power lunch for now instead of a romantic dinner.