Allgauer’s On The Riverfront

[rating=5] Tonight I relived a great deal of my past while enjoying a magnificent dinner. First of all let me explain that due to the current situation ( Covid-19), and having to pick up at curbside the dinner, the presentation is the best that Jane and I could do under the circumstances. Our dinner at Allgauer’s On The Riverfront in Northbrook was perfectly delivered in boxes and a paper bag in compliance with the health rule of today. Holly, wearing rubber gloves came out to my car and placed the bags in the back seat. Before I get to the meal, let me give you some history.

I grew up in Rogers Park, on the north side of Chicago. Located at 6666 N. Ridge Avenue was a very special dining spot,  Allgauer’s. Later they also added a Fireside dining room at 7200 N. Lincoln Avenue in Linclnwood. They were considered fine dining and as the years went on and areas changed, a space became available in the Northbrook area that also had a history of its own. The original home of The Villa Venice, Albert Bouche’s Italian supper club complete with singing gondoliers serenading guests as they floated upon the Des Plaines River. Many felt that this was owned and operated by the “mob”. In 1962, on New Years’ Eve, Bouche presented a special show featuring Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Junio and Dean Martin ( The Rat Pack) and a few other notables. Three shows, the place was filled to the brim. In 1967, the Villa Venice burned to the ground and years later, when a new hotel was being built and seeking a quality restaurant for this space, Allgauer’s On The Riverfront was born!

Enough history! Let us talk about today, April 4th ( 18 days of being home and while Jane has proven to be a quality cook, it was nice to get out and get a different style of food). The selections we opted for allowed us to ample a huge menu. Again, let me stress that each of the items was wrapped or boxed to perfection. We started our dinner with Avocado Toast ( avocado mash, multi-grain bread, boursin cheese, grape tomato & lemon pepper olive oil) and the deviled eggs. Most everyone knows my history with deviled eggs and my love of them, but these have an unusual twist, Crispy Deviled Eggs ( baby arugula, wasabi caviar and smoked paprika). These were by far the best deviled eggs I have ever tasted.

We enjoyed  the Allgauer’s Salad instead of all the fancy choices in order to leave room for the entree’s. The portions are generous and make for easy sharing. By the way, they also have a number of flatbreads and soups to select from as well as a myriad of sandwiches including one I remember from my youth, the Allgauer’s Black Angus Steakburger. That was my favorite as a kid and one in my budget ( even today, a great value at $14).

Our entree’s were the Grilled 14ounce Berkshire Pork Chop ( served with apple butter/sauce, sauteed greens , corn bread that melts in your mouth) and the Potato Crusted Halibut (served with baby vegetables 0. We also had a huge baked potato and a platter of  bacon roasted Brussels ( to die for!). As mentioned, the portions are huge, so we already know what we are having for lunch on Sunday. The menu is wide- several other seafood items, a chicken chop, a  grilled veggie and grain bowl, ravioli, steaks and Mac’n Cheese. If you can’t find something on this menu, you aren’t hungry.

For dessert, we enjoyed key lime pie with a raspberry sauce. Smooth and lovingly prepared. They also have many choices there as well. Allgauer’s On The Riverfront has been serving the north shore since 1973 from its home located in the Hilton Hotel Northbrook, 2855 N. Milwaukee Avenue . The building is set back a bit and the dining room ( when open) overlooks the water and as you look out, you might imagine the Villa Venice and its gondolas cruising along. You might even hear the Italian tenors who made the experience one if great romance. While they are no longer out there, the dining experience one gets at this beautiful restaurant is one that will remain a part of your history. If you have an occasion and cannot wait for the covid-19 lift, just remember that you can order online at https://allgauers-on-the-riverfront.business or  call 847-664-7999.

They are open for pick-up and delivery every day ( lunch and dinner) and when they re-open, they have a fabulous Sunday Brunch from 11 a.m.- 3 p.m.

Enjoy! I know we did!

Again, please note that the presentations you are seeing are not what they would do, but are how Jane and I were able to “plate” the food after unpacking. I can guarantee , however, that the food was as tasty as it would have been on their plates and in their fabulous dining room.