***** You have all heard the expression ” A destination restaurant”. We have just found one ( thanks to our readers and listeners) in Highland Park ( just 15 minutes from our home)!
Jane knew about this restaurant from years ago, when they were open for lunch as well as dinner. During Covid, they ceased doing
luncheon, and did dinner by pick-up and outside seating ( depending on weather). They are now strictly a dinner spot and what a fabulous spot they are. Tonight, we were joined by friends Danny and Marla for a Tuesday night out. Surprisingly, the restaurant was packed, and this being in Highland Park, during Passover, I was amazed and surprised to see so many people out. Our server, Tina, was more than amazing. She knows the menu very well, and while we waited for Danny and Marla, Jane and I enjoyed a cocktail ( they do a “happy Hour” from opening until 6 on weekdays)- Jane a glass of wine and I veered away from my usual ( Vodka Martini) because of Passover and instead had an old fashioned ( a divine cocktail).
The menu is very cleverly divided into: Little things:
from this section, we had:
the artisanal cheeses: served with dried fruits, nuts, marmalades and a baguette ( which we passed on as well as the warm bread)
spicy ahi tuna tartare with crispy rice, jalapeno tamari vinaigrette. chili ailoi, scallions and cilantro
roasted beets: goat cheese fritters ( divine), arugula, candied pistachios and both types of beets. I am a beet lover ( growing up in a borscht home, and the flavors of the beets were powerful, amazing and made my evening).
The next section of their menu is the “neither small or large” and from this section, we only ordered the flash fried brussel sprouts (fish sauce caramel, peanuts, cilantro, mint, and gouchugaru ( I am not a lover of Brussel sprouts, but must tell you these were magnificent! )
The last area of their menu is called “Bigger than the rest” – these are the entree’s and what a selection.
we selected:
the pan seared branzino ( braised cannellini beans, baby spinach, tomatoes, apple fennel salad ( to die for!).
Half Roast chicken vesuvio ( with crispy potatoes, English peas, lemon, garlic and butter- amazing flavor and the chicken was as tender as anything I have ever dined on.
Bonelsss beef short ribs with creamy cheese grits, roasted baby carrots ( made to perfection) and an au jus that made this a dream dish
Last, but certainly not least- the 10 ounce NY strip steak & frites with green beans, fries and a bordelaise sauce that is superb.
As it turned out these dishes were more than amazing and the flavors were zestful and made our dining guests wonder how they had not known that this place was where it was. It is a stunning place with a staff that truly cares about its diners. Being a smaller place, we were able to see the kitchen area and see the love that was coming from the kitchen.
This was a Tuesday evening, and there was indeed a full house enjoying their meals. I will say, that I saw several hamburgers go by and they were a “thing of beauty” so next time, I need to try one. Passover will be over, so bread will be back.
For dessert, being Passover, and somewhat limited, we did two scoops of ice cream and one piece of lemon almond flowerless cake.
Roger Williams Avenue is just north of lake Cook Road and South of Central ( Deerfield Road) and the restaurant is East of Green Bay Road. They have plenty of street parking as well as a lot where parking is free. Not sure if Ravinia concert-goers grab those spots during season, but if you are seeking a dynamite meal with a dining room where tastes are king, I believe that abigail’s American Bistro is a spot you need to visit. I will tell you that it is worth the trip and I am glad that it found me, so I could dine there and inform you.
During the warmer weather, they do have an outside patio dinging area, but for you Ravinia people, come here when you are not going to a concert. Go to abigail’s when you want delicious food and a warm dining experience. abigail’s hours are:
Tuesday – Saturday: 5pm – 9pm
Sunday & Monday: CLOSED
Carry out Pickup Times
Limited Carryout Available
Tuesday – Thursday: 4:30 – 8:30
Friday & Saturday: 4:30 – 5:20
Sunday & Monday: CLOSED
Abigail”s Happy Hour 5-6 p.m.
The restaurant is abigail’s American Bistro, on Roger Williams Avenue, just a few blocks north of Ravinia.
reservations:847-780-4862
Fresh, Flavorful Menu
abigail’s was born from the love of pure flavor. Using ingredients at their best, capturing the essence of the season is our mantra. abigail’s goes to great lengths to procure the best products and prepare them with respect; creating menu items with simple appeal and elevated technique.
At the start of this review, I stated that this was a “destination restaurant”, so you have to decide to go there for a wonderful dining experience. I can tell you that it is WELL WORTH THE TRIP!!
More Stories
“The Greek Isles of Arlington Heights”
“Going Back For Seconds”- China Chef-Morton Grove
Asia, Azteca, Comedy and a Bears Victory spell “Fun In Waukegan”