Erwin (Now Closed)

Erwin’s location is kind of strange — a pretty empty (restaurant-wise) area on Halsted. The restaurant is worth making the trip for however — this place is a culinary gem.

The seasonal vegetables are what really make Erwin shine. I have eaten here twice, and while the protein is awesome (and I love me some meat), the vegetables are the star.

Highlights:

Beet Salad — I have honestly never had beets that good in my entire life. It’s hard to get excited about a beet — but they are so fresh, delicious at Erwin you will end up telling your friends about em. The cheese they serve them with is also a perfect compliment to the sweetness of the beet.

Flank Steak — When I went with the fam my dad ordered this and told me it is one of the best steaks he has ever had (and he is quite a connoisseur). I tried a piece of it with the Chipotle Sauce accompaniment and I have to agree with him. Spicy, smoky, sweet flavor that is explosive but not overpowering, and the steak was cooked to medium-rare perfection.

Mushroom Cake — This meatless wonder was the star of the show. Soft, almost crab-cake like texture inside and a perfectly crispy exterior. I will be coming back for these.

Peanut Butter Mousse Cake — Whoa. This is one of the greatest things I have ever stuck down the ole throat hole. My date and I were both stuffed after dinner but wanted to try something from the desert menu. We practically licked the plate clean, and the slice they gave us was so massive I think it altered the gravitational field around our table.

The service was excellent, the wine list impressive, and the decor rustic, comfortable, and inviting. I should also add that of the two times I have been to Erwin, they gave me a $20 off coupon (applicable to the next visit) both times. Sweet deal.