There is a Naperville bar and grill that gives new meaning to ordering something “on the rocks.” Black Rock, located at 2740 W. 75th St., specializes in certified Angus beef steaks and seafood delivered to your table on a 755-degree volcanic rock.
Guests do their own cooking on the rock so that every bite is as hot as the first one and done to the exact desired doneness.
“Cooking on a volcanic rock is absolutely wonderful,” Black Rock Bar & Grill manager David Shiminsky said. “A lot of people like their steak a certain way. The stone is a great option because it comes out right, slice by slice every time and it’s hot the whole way through.”
Servers are there to “teach you the whole way through,” he said, offering step by step instructions to ensure things are cooked perfectly. And for those who prefer to leave it to the experts, there’s plenty of menu options that are made from scratch and made to order in the Black Rock kitchen.
Here’s the dish on this new local eatery.
What’s on the menu? Appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches and burgers along with steak, seafood, chicken and ribs round out the comprehensive menu. In addition, there are more than a dozen sides to choose from. Whether you opt to cook your own entree (steaks and certain kinds of seafood) or leave it to the expert chefs, there is something for everyone here. In addition, there are vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options available.
About the owners: The first Black Rock was opened in Hartland, Michigan, in 2010 by the Morganroth family. They have continued to grow the business by adding six locations in Michigan, three in Florida and the inaugural location in Illinois. The Naperville Black Rock is owned by the Schifko family, and Zach Schifko serves as Naperville’s general manager.
Mission statement or philosophy: “Black Rock is more than a meal; it’s an experience. We really excel in our service,” Shiminsky said.
Decor: Black Rock has neutral tones, modern finishes and a sleek interior. An expansive bar offers ample seating and televisions are placed throughout the restaurant so nearly every booth or table has a great view. It’s the former site of the La Hacienda Mexican Restaurant but you would never know it from the interior or exterior.
Food specialties: The Black Rock sirloin, a certified Angus beef steak served on a sizzling stone is a signature item, and comes in four different sizes to match your appetite. The seafood sensation is also a big hit, and includes a 6-ounce ahi tuna steak, two large sea scallops and two jumbo shrimp. The Black Rock chicken is a grilled chicken breast, topped with melted mozzarella cheese, applewood smoked bacon and served atop Yukon gold mashed potatoes. And you can’t miss the sizzling Black Rock volcano, a deep dish homemade brownie with four scoops of vanilla ice cream, a crispy waffle cone, whipped cream, chocolate, caramel and a marshmallow topped with a flaming sparkler.
We’re different because: “What makes Black Rock different from other restaurants in the area is our stone option,” Shiminsky said. “You don’t get that everywhere and it is really unique.”
Extras: Private parties or meetings can be held in the Black Rock board room and they can even create a unique menu for the event.
Price range: A signature 6-ounce sirloin is $16.99 and includes a choice of two sides. Appetizers range from around $10-$13 while burgers, sandwiches and entree salads range from around $10-$12. Seared ahi tuna is $21.99 and a variety of chicken entrees (served with soup or salad) come in around $17. Save room for the tasty desserts which range from $9-$12.
Logistics: Black Rock Bar & Grill is located at 2740 W. 75th St. in Naperville. They are open 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Sundays-Thursdays; 11 a.m.-midnight Fridays and Saturdays. Call 630-445-8648 or go to www.blackrockrestaurants.com.
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