1749 N Damen (at Willow)
Out of gas and wanting nothing but comfort last night, we walked to The Bluebird, our favorite neighborhood joint. Might be my favorite, anywhere. This place has everything I want in a restaurant: interesting yet unobtrusive decor, friendly and informed service, good music, a wine and beer list that’s fun to explore, and truly delicious food that’s as good or better than I’d make at home. I love sitting at their bar for a glass and a snack. We recently came for a really fun art+wine+food event. It’s the kind of place where you actually want to linger after dinner. This time, we sat at a table in their quiet back room.
The Husband ordered a Green Flash West Coast IPA and I had a glass of a great Cabernet Franc. Ignoring my yearnings for the hanger steak, I ordered the slightly garlicky and warmly spicy shrimps and the outstanding sauteed green beans, which are really haricot verts served with shallots. Also bits of bacon. The Husband ordered the perfectly-sized burger, which comes with frites. Also topped bacon, I believe.
Complete out-to-dinner perfection. Total was $62.99 because we ordered a second round. So there.