Gilt Bar

Definitely not warranted for 4 stars and not worth $$$. Steak tartare was good; ½ way thru my salmon the inside was rare. Told the waitress and she said that’s the way we prepare it. Really? Maybe salmon sushi not salmon filet. Waitress was pleasant but the level of service overall was not poor compared to the rating this place gets.

This place is just a few steps away from where I live, so I’ve been eyeing it for a bite now… literally, I can see it from my living room window :)
Walk into this dimly lit place. is it a bar, a restaurant, or just a trendy lounge? I think it could be taken for any of the above, but enough tables to just pass for the restaurant scene. The menu consists of French/​American twists serving meats, seafoods, and small plates for sharing. The plates all had amazing descriptions, with simple ingredients enough to elevate the main ingredient to shine. One thing I did notice was that it seemed like all dishes were heavy on the salt.
–Steak tartare: chopped into meaty chunks so you can actually taste the meat, and served with a few cornichons this dish has definite potential. I say potential because the traditional yolk served on top was borderline cooked hard so it made it difficult to mix in, and it was definitely heavy handed on the salt. I’ll give it a try again in the future and hope this was a one-​off experience.
–Asparagus & Farro salad: I was pleasantly surprised on how refreshing this was! Thin cut chilled veggies, and fresh mint really lit up my palette. The fresh lemon juice/​dressing made this dish one of my favorites for the night as it didn’t weigh me down and had such strong bold flavors. Get this for sure!
–Truffle pasta: Strong flavors of truffle with dashes of percorino peppers is what made this dish work! It was just a touch dry but flavors were so on point, it didn’t even matter! Get it!
–Steamed mussels: I’m usually not a mussels fan, but the lemon vermouth and thyme broth really showed the natural flavors of the mussels, working with it and not overpowering them like most mussel dishes! Just make sure you have enough bread because this broth is so tasty, you will want to slurp the whole thing down!
–Grilled farm chicken: Chicken. at a restaurant? Does anyone actually ever order this bird anymore? Well we did, and it was amazing! This chicken was pounded into a thinner style cutlet, and pan grilled with lemon and roasted garlic. What you ended up getting was this savory, tangy, chicken with lightly charred skin giving you a decadent way to eat chicken! If their chicken was this good, I can’t wait to try their other grilled meats!

Came for dinner while in Chicago and a few things weren’t as I had remembered — notably the broth on the mussels was different and there was only one choice. We also ordered the foie gras which had a coagulated layer of fat — I remember it being warm and delicious.
We ordered the rib eye (not on the menu) which was yummy. The best that we ate though were the truffle pasta and the Brussel sprouts — both were so delicious!
The place is super dark but still a fun place to have dinner and drinks.

We were in town for an expo in May so the group of us from my company made reservations at Gilt for dinner the one night. We had a last minute change to our reservation count, and the host was more than kind and accommodating, which was so nice. We were seated on time, in a back booth where it was quiet for us to all talk.
Our waitress was very friendly and knowledgeable about both the food and drink menu. I had a Whiskey Mule first (very good) and then moved on to a bottle of white wine that we split among the table. At the encouragement of our waitress, we ordered the Tenderloin Steak Tartare and Roasted Bone Marrow as our appetizers. Both were good, but I think it was a unanimous vote that none of us would order Bone Marrow again. Personal preference.
Two individuals ordered the Gunthorp Chicken dinner, two ordered the Andouille Sausage and I ordered the Ricotta Gnocchi. We all shared the french fries and roasted brussel sprouts. I highly recommend both the Ricotta Gnocchi and the brussels! Yum!
Ambiance is both relaxing and quiant. A really neat little place to go to and different than the normal big, bustling type places we normally visit when in time!

My number one recommendation for any outsider who asks, «where should I go for dinner?»
One of my favorite places in the city. The food is incredible!!! This place also turned me on to Old Fashions, which are now one of my favorite drinks!
Atmosphere is so beautiful, quaint, and relaxing. Always a great night here.

The food is very yummy! The cocktails are great. I got the bees knees. The truffle pasta is TO DIE FOR. Great atmosphere. Very dark and romantic. A cool scene

Gilt Bar met all of my wildest dreams and expectations. I love the décor, which is modern, chic, and of course Edison lights. The service here is awesome! Our server did a great job of making recommendations and explaining everything, splitting the bill, and being attentive the entire experience.
The drink menu is extensive and unique. The Lillet Rose tastes like pink lemonade, it’s super good. They are willing to customize the drinks to the way you like it (more/​less sweet, etc.). The menu his simple, yet delicious. The plates are large enough to share if you want. My friend and I shared the bone marrow with onion jam and a salad. Everything was so flavorful, I’m always a fan of keeping things simple and doing it right.
I do think it’s a little pricey, but the service, atmosphere, and quality of food and drinks makes it worth it!

Great bar. A little pricey on the food, but definitely a place to go at least once. I had the truffle pasta, which was strong in flavour – almost too much so.
The drinks were amazing, however. I would have loved to have gone to the secret bar – they should make it more public/​offer it after your meal.

This is my favorite, favorite, favorite place for pre or post dinner drinks. I love the cocktails and desserts. I had dinner a few times when they opened years ago (maybe in 2008 or 2009). I kind of forgot about this place until about two years ago, when we stopped in after dinner at Bavette’s. I have been coming here EVERY since. We stop in all the time on the way to other places for a drink or two and dessert.
Dessert: Let’s just saw Wow!!! The Toffee Date Cake is ridiculous! Please do yourself a favor and order as soon as possible. My next favorite is the Warm Brownies, which is huge. It also comes with three scoops of ice. I like the cookies n cream, chocolate and vanilla. My husband loves the mint chocolate. The Carrot Cake is very good as well, I would ask for it to be warm up slightly and add vanilla ice cream.
Drinks: They are so good. My favorites are the Old Overholt Old Fashioned, Whiskey Mule, Whiskey Sour made with Old Forester and the Gold Rush (not on the menu). I like for «Claudia» inside joke to make my drinks (she’s has dark hair and typically wears red/​burgundy lipstick). She makes the best drinks there.
Atmosphere: This place is swanky! The vibe is off the chain. It exudes sexiness and swag. I love grabbing two seats at the bar or even better in the Library (downstairs speakeasy), of which both can be hard to come by.

THE HYPE IS REAL.
The obsession is real.
Gilt Bar, you are the real deal.
It was our first time here — and when I made our reservation I mentioned that we were celebrating our anniversary. We were greeted by a warm SMILING hostess who took us to our romantic booth overlooking the magical looking dining area. We felt like royalty. Our server greeted us with two glasses of champagne! Who are we!?!
I was cheesin hard by this point. We both work in the industry so I have to say it was nice for us to be getting taken care of instead of doing the caring.
I got the Tito’s lemon drop martini and my guy got a old fashion — hello boozy. hello perfection.
We shared the balsamic garlic toast to start, and the chicken pot pie and ribeye for our main courses. (these were both specials and delicious!)
I think this is one of the best dining experiences we have had here in Chicago.
Everything truly was flawless from start to finish.
The night didn’t just end upstairs. Using the restroom downstairs is an odd trippy experience, but in a good way. I felt like I was Alice from wonderland since I didn’t really know where the dark hallway was leading me.
There is also a little hidden photo booth downstairs where you can get a strip picture taken for 3 dollars. Worth it.
The experience, vibe, and food all make this place.
Thank you again Gilt Bar for making our night so great!
Bravo.

— House wine. Check +
— Roasted Bone Marrow. Check +
— Truffle Pasta. Check
— Chocolate Cream Pie. Check +++++++++
I love this place! Vibe is awesome! The cocktails/​wine are delicious. Food was tasty. The dessert blew my mind. Go try it!
Try to get seated downstairs, its more intimate and super cool!

My review only had three stars not because Guilt is a bad place but because I was only there such a short period of time and could only get a drink at a packed bar. I came in on a Saturday night which is packed everywhere in downtown Chicago. There was an hour wait for a table much like every restaurant in a several block radius.
The décor inside was very nice and dimly lit for a cozy dinner or relaxing with friends. The menu to my surprise was limited with not much to choose from. If you want to try this place I would definitely recommend making a reservation. Gilt is not very big inside so it fills up quickly.
I will have to come back again to give a better review. For more comfort you may want to try a day of the week instead of a Saturday night.

This trendy spot in River North has a great atmosphere for small group or date nights, either for cocktails or dinner.
I tried the Tenderloin Steak Tartare, which was surprisingly good quality meat. Better to have with a good gin&tonic — try the Hendrick’s or Martin Miller’s. The warm brownies and the lemon meringue pie are to die for.
Can’t go wrong with this place!

I am between 3 ½ stars and 4 stars, I couldn’t decide due to the fact they were out of rib eye!!! How can you be out of rib eye on a Saturday night? Someone please explain me why an item that’s not on the regular menu is out??? In boggles my mind!!! Instead we had to substitute for salmon and the chicken. The food was pretty tasteful and the mash potatoes were delicious. If this review was solely based on food they would have received 5 stars.
Service: The server never checked up on us after receiving the food nor did he give us the check after finishing. We waited and waited for quite a long time. My patients started wearing thin. Give that it was a Saturday night and also pretty pack I would have understand the inadequate service if he was attentive to us once. Although, he was very observant to the two tables between us. Not sure, why!
I want to give a compliment out the Ryan (the host), he tried to accommodate us downstairs because we wanted to see the underground venue without making prior reservations.
Since this resturant is unique and we loved the ambiance will be back in hopes have a better service experience.

Absolutely everything I had hoped for. Being a fairly regular diner at Maude’s, I continued to overlook Gilt Bar. I stopped by tonight with a friend and we had a splendid night filled with delicious food and beverage.
Can’t beat the lovely vibe. Perfect for a date, night, out with the girls or a special occasion. Trendy, romantic, unique… amazing!
Our waiter Chris was awesome. Shout out to him for being a cool dude.
We started with the Steak Tartare (absolutely perfect), followed by the Arugula and Avocado Salad which was light and just right. Then we shared the Grilled Farm Chicken, Ricotta Gnocchi and Brussel Sprouts. All were so out of this world it’s hard to pick a favorite. Brussel Sprouts were such a highlight.
Beverage list is dope. There’s a plethora of classic cocktails, and a nice list of booze. Can’t go wrong with their Sazarac. Wine list is also plentiful.
Dessert is always a must, so we had to try the Lemon Meringue Pie. My first thought upon seeing this beautiful mountain of sweetness was «holy shit!!» Awesome portion, absolutely delicious crust and fantastic presentation. Easily the best I’ve had.
Thanks for the best night!

I was extremely surprised by how amazing this place is. I went into it not expecting anything, and came out knowing I would be craving my next visit.
I went here with a group of 5 girls for a birthday dinner on a Sunday night (the sunday before MLK day). There were a few people there, but not overcrowded. We got seated in a booth and the service from start to finish was excellent. Very attentive, informative and professional.
The drinks were all so delicious. And THE FOOD. THE FOOD WAS AMAZING. And exceeded all my expectations. We ordered the shared plates to share — The bread with garlic and balsamic (EXCELLENT), bone marrow (UGH SO GOOD), the tartare (I loved tartare to begin with but this was just amazing. and the garlic/​horseradish aoili was really a nice touch), the brussel sprouts (delicious) and cauliflour (very pleasently surprised). Every single item was delicous.
They also accommodated the food allergies in our group (gluten and dairy). Everything was great from start to finish. I would come back in a heartbeat.
It’s a bit pricey, so get ready to dish out some money but it’s worth it. Also, come early or on off times if you can. This place gets crowded.

Patch P. and I picked this place as one of the last dinners to have to celebrate our anniversary. It was quite a walking trek, but we made it! We called ahead as we read it could get quite packed at certain times of the evening, and the friendly staff helped get us RSVP within the 15 minutes!
It was dimly lit inside, but seems like a great place to socialize with friends. Our server explained the menu was all a-​la-​carte and told us about their wine specials for the evening. We shared the coal fired rib eye (MP), side of truffle fries, and the most-​recommended item on the menu, their truffle pasta. We were so full and barely finish the meal between just the two of us!
I thought that the meal was just OK and the meat was kind of tough in some parts. The truffle pasta did not live up to the overhyped aspect. I thought the noodle/​pasta was tough and did not taste as fresh. It also felt quite heavy and didn’t settle correctly in my stomach.
Other than that, service was very friendly and attentive! Our glasses of water were ALWAYS kept full and refilled whenever they saw it go down, even just slightly! This is rare to see, so I highly commend them on this! Overall, the meal and ambiance was great. 3.5 stars, rounded up.

Wow… first time having bone marrow in my life and it was better than I expected. This whole place is just great from the ambience to the food and lastly their awesome hidden speakeasy. Just so intriguing.
The four of us ordered the apple and arugula salad topped with manchego and hazelnut. It was so delicious and had the perfect amount of dressing. Then we got roasted bone marrow with red onion jam with toast. Okay first of all I never knew you spread the bone marrow on the toast kind of like butter. It was absolutely divine! The flavor was so rich and the red onion jam was a perfect sweeter complement to the dish. Finally we also got the gunthrop chicken which came with two huge pieces. It was very tender and had lots of spices. Also got the truffle pasta which was very creamy but it didn’t come with a lot. My fav was still the bone marrow just because it’s such a unique dish.
Their bathrooms are also very clean and old school classic looking. On the way down you pass by a hidden wooden door which actually leads to the entrance of a speakeasy. So clever and secretive! I love restaurants that put thought into design it just makes the dining experience so much dinner:) I love you Chicago!
The only downside is no spaces between tables and very dim can’t take good pics.

I should really create a Unilocal list of all the dimly-​lit restaurants in the city. I think it will help those in need of covering facial imperfections. *Adds to to-​do list*
The ambiance is very sexy and classy. The dimness helped cover the one zit I had on my face, so thank you, Gilt Bar. :D
I came here with a group on a Friday night around 8:30pm without reservations, and the wait was about 35 minutes. During that time, we ordered drinks at the bar located near the restaurant’s entrance. I got the Lillet Rose as recommended by the bartender, which turned out to be amazing. It was sweet and didn’t taste like alcohol.
We decided to order family-​style and split one appetizer, three entrees, and two sides among the four of us. It was just the perfect amount of food. This is what we ordered:
APPETIZER
— Roasted bone marrow, red onion jam: A must try appetizer. It was very flavorful, and the bread was toasted perfectly. Bone marrow and red onion on top of the toasted bread entering your mouth = party in your mouth. You’ll thank me later.
ENTREES
— Orecchiette pasta: This was my favorite entrée out of all three. The flavor was more intense than the other dishes. It wasn’t buttery like the truffle pasta. The pork wasn’t overpowering either.
— Truffle pasta: The pasta was buttery and delicious. It was slightly more heavy than the orecchiette pasta.
— Pork belly: It was like a thick piece of bacon essentially. The pork belly was moist and very tasty.
SIDES
— Charred green beans: The green beans were savory. It complemented the other dishes pretty well.
— Roasted cauliflower: I actually didn’t try this, but my friends liked it.
There is a speakeasy bar located underneath this restaurant called «The Library», but we didn’t get to check it out because there was a long wait list. The restrooms are also located underneath the restaurant, which can almost be classified as a speakeasy restroom since it wasn’t very easy to find. Wouldn’t that be something? Speakeasy restroom, ha.

On a recent business trip to Chicago, I had the pleasure of dining with colleagues at The Gilt Bar. We were seated promptly and our waiter took his time to explain the menu to us, since most of our party, including myself had never been here before.
We decided to order a couple of appetizers and sides so we could enjoy them «family style». We ordered the Classic Caeser salad and the Tenderloin Steak Tartare. Both were very good and flavorful. I decided to solicit our waiter for my entrée selections, since I was torn between a few items. I decided upon the Coal Fired Rib Eye, which was cooked perfectly. The meat was very tender and juicy. My Rib Eye had a bit more fat than I like, but it tasted delicious. We ordered the Mashed Potatoes, Charred Green Beans and Roasted Cauliflower as sides. They were all amazing.
For dessert we ordered the Warm Brownies topped with ice cream and the Chocolate Cream Pie. The brownie was very good, but the Chocolate Cream Pie was awesome. Just the right amount of chocolate for us chocolate lovers with a nice dollop of whipped cream.
The service was very good and the décor inside was decorated nicely. It was a bit dark inside, but the meal was delish!