After a 3 month hiatus on new fatherhood duty, I was eager to return to Chicago’s finest gentlemen. On 4th of July eve, you never know what you will get. Would there be garage entrapment, bar gymnastics, or perhaps some good old fashion barking?

In a move not often seen, Mr. Glick proposed an early start to the evening, so as to attend a rooftop party – more on this later. Summer in Chicago – hard to beat. This evening was no exception. Having missed the group’s first trip to III Forks in October of 2011, I was eager to try out the fare. On a picture perfect evening, the boys found levity and lively banter atop the III Forks rooftop bar. This gem of a spot overlooks a lovely park, nestled in the area defined as Lakeshore East. Though Mr. Conway claimed technical difficulties in posting on the site; he owned up to the drinks he needed to buy the group and we took the stairs down to our waiting table.

A diamond shaped configuration of seating fit our group of 8 perfectly; missing only Mr. Martin who was off in the hinterland of WI, we settled in for a session of tasty delights.

Our server Anton, who may be a top 10 candidate for all time server in the group’s history, did an excellent job of pacing the night and providing insight and intrigue without being overbearing and annoying.

A hungry group, we dug into individualized crab cakes, beef caroustes, tomato and burata and a main course, turned appetizer of pork belly with octopus. I think it is safe to say, we were all a bit let down by the aps – the tomato and burrata was the clear winner.

Steaks across the board faired well to reviews. The exception being the “house favorite” of the tomahawk ribeye split by Glick and Kid Ray. My NY Strip stood up well and enjoyed the compliments of a “King’s Butter” – a decadent topping that the group shared.

Sides were a chance for more adventure from the group on this trip. A sweet potato hash and 6 cheese potato were changes from our regular fare; coupled with spinach (not creamed) and mushrooms – they rounded us out well.

Desserts were complimentary from Anton and a nice touch on Donald’s real birthday celebration. A chocolate cake, cheesecake and bourbon bread pudding were all good; however, the bread pudding stole the show.

The evening’s conversation covered a wide range of topics including: Iraq, Addiction, Head Injuries, NFL, Hans’ wedding, ankle injuries, the new SportsCenter set – but the focus was on the beautiful game – with the World Cup in the quarterfinal stage, everyone shared steady views of who will prevail and the future of US soccer. Kid Ray walked free after a lively game of credit card roulette.

All in all – III Forks leads first with terrific ambiance, great service and food that is above most. Their location may ultimately be their undoing, or perhaps their greatest asset. Anton affirmed they are not open for lunch and a light dinner group for a holiday evening, might spell trouble, but for the sake of steak night and for the city’s diners, we hope it makes it a long while. As for the evening after, I headed home, but I imagine there was some good old fashion fun had by all…..

Score 7.5

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