Steakhouses continue to be the trend for 2015: Maple & Ash, a traditional steakhouse with some tongue-in-cheek cocktails and twists on the usual wine list, is now open at 8 W. Maple St. in the Gold Coast.
Think steak, seafood and stiff drinks, with the opening menu touting a 40-ounce porterhouse steak named in honor of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, who managing partner Brian O’Connor says liked to grill massive steaks over a wood fire, a grilled seafood tower, and drinks from a classic gin martini to the Scotchy Scotch Scotch, a reference to the movie “Anchorman” that blends two Scotches, a bourbon, Grand Marnier and vermouth.
Wine director Belinda Chang, the James Beard Award-winning sommelier, has fun with the wine list, offering traditional pours and some surprises; your bottle might be opened using a flame, a saber or a vintage corkscrew, among other tools.
O’Connor, formerly general manager of Ria restaurant in the former Elysian Hotel, says Maple & Ash will be “a classic Chicago steakhouse” and will focus on cooking over a wood fire.
For reservations or information, contact Maple & Ash at 312-944-8888.
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