Wildfire-The Return
Zee German was invading France so I was asked to pinch hit for the October steak night, being the same month as the fall classic a pinch hit seemed appropriate. Since there was less then a week to get a reservation many fine establishments were already booked. Then it hit me, we have not been to Wildfire in years and there were only a couple of people in attendance on the previous group visit, it was time for a return. It was not an epic pinch hit a la Kirk Gibson in the 1988 World Series but it was a good strong at bat.
I arrived with Cizzle about 7:15 and we found Daddy Gimms trying to entertain himself at the bar. The bar area is nice but it was a bit slow to get a cocktail. However this minor inconvenience didn’t stop Daddy Gimms from getting completely inebriated, he had to be drinking before arriving. Cocktail conversation centered on recent trips to Napa, Cizzle’s new gig, how the football pool will go on despite the inability of some in the group to execute their picks and of course where the hell was everybody else. Glick, Cole, and Jevon arrived at 7:55 and we were off and running.
Initially we were seated right by the kitchen at a bad table and Glick didn’t even bother to sit down, instead setting out to fix the situation. All were impressed he got this resolved, not so much that we got a better table but that he had to get off his black berry to accomplish it.
Starters included calamari, baked goat cheese and stuffed shrimp. I also had a crab bisque, which was excellent. Porterhouse medium rare for me with no toppings and it delivered on all fronts. Each steak comes with a side, something that seems to be unique to this place and I had some excellent au gratin potatoes while the group each ordered there go to side. We also had some Mac and cheese for table to share. Great food all around and a very patient waitress who seemed to take the groups antics in stride.
Getting kicked in the nuts. Having Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino as my roommate, being force to listen to Macarena on repeat. All thing I would rather do then have in depth political discussion at dinner. I understand the debates just happened and the election is quickly approaching but there was entirely too much political discussion at dinner. Republican, Democrat, Tea Party all have something in common; they are all full of shit.
Mr. Cole won at credit card roulette and took a victory lap around the dining room. Post dinner drinks were at the Green Door where Scotty Martin joined us. We headed north and had one final beer at Crossing where a legendary WWF conversation took place. Daddy Gimms insisted Kin Korn Karn was the wrestler who used to blow green smoke at opponents. For those not in the know Kin Korn Karn was a character on the Pro Wrestling video game on Nintendo not some one in the WWF but as stated earlier Daddy Gimms was inebriated.
Once again a great evening.
Cheers,
The Drunk Idiot
Filed under: General
So sorry to have missed this event, especially considering Glick was able to solve some dinner problems sans Blackberry. Alas I had an event in town and as noted was able to meet up afterwards for some suds and laughs post dinner. I too saw Old Gimms in good form and maybe would chalk it up to the heavy wine pours at dinner?
Thanks for the call when you went to Crossing. Dicks.
Never had a bad steak at Wildfire – the streak continues. To properly prep for the evening, I had a few cocktails after work. As usual, I arrived promptly at 7pm to meet the group, except this night no one decided to show on time. I was by myself for the first 30 minutes before Crenshaw and Rick arrived (not 15 min, as Reeshard indicated). Naturally, I had 2 more scotches. Regrettably, Wildfire does not carry Oban, so Balvene 12 year was my partner to help pass the time.
The balance of the group trickled at or around 8pm. By this point I was 4 scotches deep and on my way to being inappropriately lubed. The group was shown to a piss poor table that was right next to the open kitchen and maybe fit to seat 4 (I believe we had 6). Needless to say, no one was having it. A request to move was made post-haste (spearheaded by Glick; kudos, Jon) and the staff happily accommodated. Now situated with appropriate seating – the witty banter commenced. Topics ranged from politics, (much to Rick Ray’s dismay! No politics at Steak Night!), health reform and finally to the current steak night pick ‘em situation. Many a steak night attendee tried to weasel their way out of a previously agreed upon wages. Obviously, Kid Ray was having none of that.
Onto the meal….calamari and crab stuffed shrimp (a favorite of mine) – were all quality. The highlight however, is the steak. I usually go for the rib-eye but I find the wildfire blue cheese crust settles better on a filet – so that was my choice, rare plus. Huge success; the blue cheese crusted filet at Wildfire is an original standout in the city.
By this time I was considerably crushed and the specific details of the evening get a little grey. But one thing was crystal clear… there was no way I was winning roulette, because I never win roulette and this Thursday was no different. Post dinner drink showing at Green Door followed by Crossing. In light of my inebriation I didn’t recall the “King Korn Karn” discussion until reading the write – ups. The follow up YouTube sent by Scotty of “Brother Love” Friday Am was a nice touch.
In closing, I will gladly eat a steak at Wildfire any night of the week. 8.5
Any dinner at wildfire is guaranteed to be a success and this dinner was no different. A slight change in table was necessary as a group as cold as us should never be allowed near the kitchen. Politics were the early subject of the night, but I appreciated the groups varied views on the subject. In the heart of Obama land, variant views should not only be encouraged but applauded. As a supporter of the POTUS, I have never been more disappointed by a candidate I’m supporting. (Had to put in one comment as we won’t be convening until after the election – much to Rick Ray’s chagrin).
On to the dinner – apps were ok, steaks were great…only complaint was the major fumble by not making it someone’s birthday or getting the cookie skillet. a meek pumkin pie cheesecake was placed on the table and I could see the tears coming down Mr. Crenshaw’s face.
Rick kept his fashion streak alive sporting an awesome fuzzy pink sweater to go with his jeggings. Where he comes up with these ideas is beyond me, but I give him kudo’s.
Overall: 8
First time, long time. Having never been did not know what to expect, but it came up aces. Great energy, positive move in table placement, strong dinner conversation, and a steak with blue cheese topping – hard to hate on it.
At the next steak night, we will know who the president is, should keep the focus on food and sports.
That is all
Great meat, great time, and my first WALK!!! Loved it all around; well, except for the conversation nazis in the group…this election directly impacts my decision to either stay in Chicago or move to Curacao…did I mention that I walked!?!
Wildfire was solid as usual from what I can remember. Pulled an audible on the table assignment an they were very accommodating. Sides, Steak, Conversation were all great.
Drinks on me. Fuck.