A Guatemalen Gem in Budlong Woods!

***** Finding new restaurants in Chicago is a “piece of cake”. I am very lucky that so many of my readers and listeners take the time to send me the names of newly discovered eateries in their area. I have done many Mexican restaurants, and in my discussions with others, it seems that most Americans think that all Latin dining is the same. They are not! Tonight, Jane, Cary, Frank and I went to a little space on Lincoln Avenue ( I think it may be Budlong Woods area of the city) called Bryannas Restaurant. We were just South of Mather High School and just North of American Blues Theatre’s new home at 5695 N. Lincoln Avenue.

Bryannas is a Guatemalan/Salvadoran menu that the callers said they were Mexican dining. Close, but not the same! I will say that the atmosphere was pleasant. They have two dining rooms and a seasonal outside seating patio. Tonight was not one of those nights. Our hostess/server Olivia was a delight as we expressed interest in learning more about Guatemalan food. Those of you who read me regularly know that by choice I am a vodka drinker, but as the old saying goes, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do!”, I opted to change course tonight and have a rum from Guatemala ( on ice)- smooth and tasty. Frank opted to do one of their beers and the ladies had margaritas.

For appetizers, we shared  the Camarones Empanizados Con Coco (deep fried coconut shrimp) and Nachos Guatemaltecos ( corn tortilla chips covered with black beans, chicken/beef, guacamole and cheese). Both of these were delicious and flavorful- even the side sauces were tasty with a slight zing.

For our entree’s we ordered three plates to share. Carne con Camarones ( an 8 ounce skirt steak that was amazing and grilled to perfection, grilled shrimp, rice, salad and sweet fried plantains). This is just one of over 8 choices that include steak and something else, and the portions are perfect! From the “traditional” side of the menu,  we  ordered the Hilachas (shredded beef with potatoes simmered in Guatemalan creoles sauce that was served with rice) and from the Seafood section, Camarones Puerto Barrios (Shrimp and peppers in a coconut cream bas served with rice, steamed cabbage and sweet plantains)- this was the most amazing shrimp I have ever had, bar none!

There are vegetarian dishes and a huge selection of seafood and chicken dishes from which to select. I would venture to say that you could come here every day for two weeks and never duplicate an item during that period. They do have several soups, a number of beverages that are from their home country and of course, great desserts, of which we enjoyed two. Mollete (Guatemalan style bread pudding) to die for! and something I have never tried before, Rellenitos ( fried plantain dough stuffed with sweetback beans or sweet milk sprinkle with sugar)- we had the beans and they were tasty. Not what I anticipated in a dessert, but well worth trying!

Brannas is located at 5695 N. Lincoln with street parking available, and unlike a lot of other dining spots in the Chicago area, they are open 7 days a week!

Monday- Friday   11 a.m.- 10 p.m.

Saturday   10 am- 11 p.m.

Sunday  10 a.m.- 10 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday offers a brunch menu as well.

Jane and I are planning to take a morning and experience the flavors of Guatemala for breakfast dishes soon!

They have delivery and pick-up available.

Check them out at www.bryannasrestaurant.com

call 872-208-5599 or 773-441-5593

You may have tasted other Latin foods, but the Guatemalan food is a MUST TRY!