Wherein the gentlemen explore Petterino’s in the heart of Chicago’s Theater District.

A revolving door ushers guests into a tightly packed mix of the after-work crowd and the pre-theater crowd, sitting and standing around the bar, intermittently dodging servers.

The service was solid, both at the bar beforehand and at our table later in the evening, John did an excellent job. Though the fresh artichoke heart fritters were a little on the bland side, the shrimp de jonghe jumped off the plate. I can heartily recommend the pepper steak. The creamed spinach and a variety of potatoes were all well prepared. The fillet was a little on the petit side at 7oz, but I can’t speak to its flavor.

We’ve been doing this for a few years now. Specials, marked sometimes in red, bold, starred, or set aside in boxes, tend to be the choicest options, the signature dishes. I seek them out as if to ask “What can you do to impress me?” and they have answered to my extreme satisfaction – until Petterino’s bistro steak.

Mr. Glick spoke first, but three of us ordered it, largely on the basis of the ‘special’ nature of the dish. It was disappointing. Tough. Probably the worst piece of meat the three of us had had thus far.

Now, it’s important to note that the manager did the right thing – the bistro steaks were taken care of. And it’s important to note that this was explained as beef shoulder before we ordered it – again, the service and staff were excellent – but making a controversial (“love it or hate it”) dish stand out like this seems like a mistake.

Mr. Ray proposed that those who do not comment on posts in a timely manner (i.e., within two weeks of each review post) split the bar tab before the following steak night. Mr. Glick suggested that this might introduce a chilling effect, so it was further noted that this penalty will be assessed in your absence. Motion seconded and carried.

Rick Ray’s birthday last night. Glick walked free. Again.

Onward to 2010!

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