Happy New Year!

Happy New Year from -16 degree Chicago! My lovely winter break has thus been extended through tomorrow on account of the frigid weather, so I have time to catch up on my food and travel filled fall and winter. My delicious autumn began with a lunch at Au Cheval diner and bar on W. Randolph St. Always very crowded, my mom, brother and I were lucky to get in for an early lunch when they opened. Set in a clubby little space complete with leather booths and a gilded espresso machine, I was impressed as soon as I walked in. Another thing that surprised me was how unapologetically greasy the menu was. This of course makes all food delicious, so I felt like this meal would be good, if only mildly heart stopping! The service was laid back, but still impeccable and we ordered right away. My brother ordered the bone marrow and beef cheek marmalade, which came with Texas toast. I only tried a bite, because I myself had ordered a cheeseburger, but the combination of the rich bone marrow and the tangy marmalade worked very well. When the next part of our meal came, I was greeted with a large steak knife sticking out of my burger. My mom had ordered "General Jane's" honey fried chicken, which was served with chilies and garnished with sesame seeds and cilantro. The chicken was impossibly crispy on the outside, and, surprisingly, very moist on the inside. It packed a surprising strong kick from the chilies too! I was worried it would be too rich, but my cheeseburger was amazing. No single aspect of the burger overpowered any other because there was a perfect patty-cheese-pickle and onion ratio. Despite feeling gluttonous just writing about it, I can happily say my meal at Au Cheval was delicious and impressive. I look forward to going back soon!