Pump Room: New Menu

Do you have favorite restaurants based on seasons? I do! There are some places I frequent in the summer but never the winter. And visa versa. Although I love this particular restaurant year round, I especially love The Pump Room this time of year.

Back in the day, it used to be the hottest celebrity filled joint in the country. Think Marilyn Monroe, Mick Jaggar, Audrey Hepburn and so many more. Frank Sinatra used to have his own booth and the restaurant is located right across the street from the original Playboy Mansion (now four very expensive condominiums). Can you imagine State Street back in the day?! (Hence Frank’s famous Chicago song, State Street).

I also designated The Public Hotel ( where you can find The Pump Room) as my out of town guests and bridal party destination. I have such fond memories here and truly a magical place. A great “off the beaten path” suggestion for out of towners too.

I personally find The Pump Room one of the coziest and chicest restaurants in the Chicago and the food is seriously amazing.  I recently tried their new fall/winter menu and I’m telling you it is awesome.

My very, very favorites are:

Bruschetta || Kabocha Squash & Fresh Ricotta: To die for!
Fresh Tagliatelle || Meyer Lemon Cream, Parmesan and Black Pepper: One of the best pasta dishes I have had in a long time. I have already been back for seconds!
Greek Yogurt Cheesecake || Concord Jelly & Figs: Surprisingly light and oh so fresh.

But do not be fooled, there are several other items that will knock your socks off.

I highly recommend getting over to The Pump Room for dinner stat. Afterwards I always head across the lobby for cocktails in The Library. Such a happening seen and their hand crafted libations take you right back to the 1920’s. I especially adore The Daisy. She’s soooo yummy!

What are your favorite spots in Chicago during the winter? Any recommendations? I would love to add something new to my list of places to try.

A huge thank you to The Pump Room for having me. And another thank you to Kit and Maya (my dinner dates) for letting me use their gorgeous photos. You can read their personal reviews on The Pump Room here and here.