Ever heard of a "clubstaurant?"
Well, that portmanteau perfectly describes Joy District ( 112 W. Hubbard St.; www.joychicago.com/ ), which offers everything from inviting eats to multiple spaces to explore.
Housed in what was formerly Epic, Chef Matthew Wilde has unveiled a new menu that Windy City Times was privileged to try as part of a media eventand while there was torrential rain outside, there was nothing but "joy" inside.
The menu involves a mix of influences, with nearly everything having a twist. Tuna poke cones came in crispy waffle cones ( that were savory, as opposed to sweet, Wilde exclusively told WCT ) while the local burrata salad featured roasted baby beets, fig jam and sesame brittle. Even the grilled edamame offered a little spice ( literally ), courtesy of yuzu salt and yukari.
The hits kept coming, thanks to a kicky citrus salmon roll with cucumber, jalapeno, avocado, lemon and cilantro. A tasty roasted chicken coll came with roasted puree and chimichurri and even the butter burger skirted the usual, as it came with black garlic and miso aioli.
However, the food is only part of the reason to visit Joy District. The venue contains various bars as well as club and lounge spaces that sport signs, couches, photos, intriguing lights and other items. Aside from the first floor, there are the chandelier room, first-floor mezzanine, second floor, second-floor mezzanineand the 3,000-square-foot rooftop that can allow for even more dancing.
So, whatever your pleasure ispeople-watching or dancingbe sure to indulge while sampling some of the more impressive menu selections I've tried this year.
Upcoming wine walk
Andersonville Wine Walk will once again invite guests to walk, sip and shop their way through the district on Sunday, May 21, 3-6 p.m.
The Wine Walk will feature 26 of Andersonville's businesses, including Candyality, Kru Strength + Fitness, Jerry's, Martha Mae Art Supplies & Beautiful Things, Andersonville Galleria, Notice, Orange Shoe Personal Fitness, TrueNorth Cafe, and Revive Massage Therapy and Spa.
Tickets to Andersonville Wine Walk include admission, wine tastings and a one-of-a-kind commemorative wine glass. Check-in for the walk will begin at 1 p.m. at the Swedish American Museum, 5211 N. Clark St., on May 21. To purchase tickets or for more information, visit Andersonville.org .
Note: Restaurant profiles/events are based on invitations arranged from restaurants and/or firms.