There are few things my husband (Caleb) and I enjoy more than a long brunch on a Sunday afternoon. This Sunday I was desperate for a nap so I slept well past brunch and was fully into Linner (or Dunch) territory, and that turned out to be a great thing.
My friend Chelsea (chelseamichalart) posted about River North Public House this morning and their menu was enticing enough to make it our choice for the day.
As some of you may remember when it used to be Citizen, the parking situation is a little confusing, but there are plenty of spots behind the restaurant, and the walkway to the front door is fun enough that it felt like a runway (see below).
Not pictured, the many DABs that occurred, corresponding with the Kanye West music blasting from the speakers. .
As we walked in, I felt right at home. The decor is all out, and it feels like the kind of place I could hang out all day (but I’m partial to the gold and navy combo).
The staff was debriefing from a great brunch service when we arrived, and we had the place to ourselves, which couldn’t have been more perfect. They were so friendly and excited about their jobs, and I felt like we were old friends by the end of our meal. Everyone we talked to was excited about the new vision of the restaurant, and we felt genuinely welcome to stay as long as we liked.
They also had happy hour when we arrived, so some beer was priced at a stay-all-day price.
For our appetizer we got the chicken wings. They were dry rubbed with a smoky seasoning that was good on its own, but the dipping sauces put them over the edge. I’m trying to avoid dairy, and the blue cheese ranch was worth a taste for sure!
Pictured above:
Drink service.
Chicken Wings: $9
House special dry rubbed, with buffalo blue cheese ranch and chipotle soul sauce
The appetizers came with our first round of drinks specially chosen for us by the staff. We ended up getting the Unicorn Rum Punch and a custom made Cherry Limeade (with vodka of course).
Pictured above:
Unicorn Rum Punch - $8: Spiced Rum, Coconut Rum, Pineapple Juice, Lime Juice, Blue Curacao.
Cherry Limeade - Not on the menu
For dinner we had the Riverside Burger, which accidentally had cheese on it, but #worthit, and the Beer Battered Cod. They came with the most incredible waffle fries. Usually, in my mind, waffle fries are soggy and disappointing, but these were crispy and perfectly seasoned. Honestly, I would stop by just for an order of fries and to socialize with the staff, and I just might in the future. The portion sizes were definitely enough to fill you up, which is always a win in my book.
Also, it’s worth mentioning that the ketchup they serve is incredible. My Illinois native husband said, “I don’t normally eat Ketchup, but this stuff is so good.”
Pictured Above:
Riverside Burger - $13: Steak Burger, White Cheddar, Bacon Jam, Beer Battered Onion Rings, Fried Egg
Beer Battered Cod - $13: Cedar Springs Beer Battered Cod, True North Fries, Lemon Dill Aioli
For dessert we got an extra special treat, a visit to the kitchen. We ordered the Apple Fritters, and I got to watch them made and talk to the chef. Katelynn Hale works her butt of with the owner to create a wonderful food experience for all, and her passion for what she does really shines. Like the rest of the staff, she really sees the vision and potential this restaurant and owner have, and she is completely on board.
Dessert came with a final round of drinks and another quote from my hard to impress husband.
“That was Yum. “
Pictured above:
Apple Fritter Bites - $8: Fried Apple Fritter Bites, Vanilla Ice Cream, Caramel Sauce.
Katelyn Hale - Head Chef and her Sous Chef
Blushing Sangria - $7: House made with Rose´ and fruit.
“Rainbow Paradise” - Not on the menu
Overall, we will definitely back and you should try it out. I am the queen of positive, but even my husband was super impressed. Any mistakes that may have happened were covered up with excellent service and the positive passion of the staff.
Now, have a picture of my husband, because it’s not a blog post unless I make him uncomfortable ;)
