The Lettuce of The Season
Lady Gem’s Society Papers dish out the latest from the restaurants
Dearest Patrons and Gourmands,
“Bridgerton” has Lady Whistledown, and here at Lettuce Restaurants, you have me, Lady Gem, your most reliable source for the latest whispers and delights from our dining establishments! As we usher in new episodes of our favorite romantic dramedy series (Season 4, Part 2 now streaming on Netflix), my latest edition of “The Lettuce of The Season” has arrived to guide you through some of the most delicious gossip, grand unveilings and magnificent gatherings that have the town humming with anticipation.
Tell us, which one is to be the diamond of the season, in your opinion?
A Star is Born in Nashville: Aba
Allow me to extend the warmest welcome to one of the newest gems in our crown, Aba – Nashville, which breezed into Music City’s Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood last fall and has been dazzling guests ever since. This splendid establishment offers a feast for the senses under the mastery of Chef Partner CJ Jacobson (who I must note quickly followed up this astounding opening with an equally breathtaking debut of Ema – Austin). Indulge in exquisite Mediterranean mezze, raw and grilled shared plates, a robust selection of global wines and elegant cocktails, all served in a lush and sprawling greenery-filled space. To be seen there is to announce, without uttering a word, that one’s tastes are impeccable.
Make a reservation at Aba – Nashville
The Season’s Fullest Dance Card: Crying Tiger
Another fresh bloom of the season, Crying Tiger—much whispered about and even more oft booked—is Chicago’s most coveted seat. We hear you must be formidable enough to endure a reservation system more ruthless than the marriage mart itself (though one well-informed lady-in-waiting tells me to simply reserve 30 days in advance of your desired date). Inside the resplendent environs, conversation hums, chic diners dine, and phones discreetly emerge (for how else shall society know you’ve tasted the buzzed-about Clay Pot Lobster Pad Thai and Crying Tiger Dessert?).
Make a reservation at Crying Tiger
A Most Charming Tavern: Gus’ Sip & Dip
Much like our beloved season 4 bachelor and rake Benedict, Gus’ Sip & Dip has quickly and deftly risen as a beacon of effortless charm. Here the bartenders pour signature freezer door martinis and other classic cocktails with unapologetic confidence, the crowd is discerning but unpretentious, and the atmosphere ripe for casual connections and the occasional raised eyebrow. The Wagyu Beef Dip has been elevated to an object of devotion. Perfect for stealing away for a drink (or two) before (or after) the next society ball.
Gus’ Sip & Dip is walk-in only; no reservations are available
A New Luncheon in Town: Ema – Glenview
The latest chatter amongst the elite is the new luncheon at Ema – Glenview, available Monday – Friday from 11:30 AM – 4:00 PM and Saturday – Sunday from 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM. Especially noteworthy is the Lunch Kebab Special, which includes the choice of Classic or Spicy Hummus, Chicken Kefta or Grilled Chicken Kebab, cucumber and tomato salad, lemon dill basmati rice and choice of house bread or crudite for $18.95, plus tax (available for dine-in, carryout and delivery). And what of the whispers of Sunday Spritz Specials? Return at the weekend to experience these delights!
Make a reservation for lunch at Ema – Glenview | Order carryout or delivery for lunch from Ema – Glenview
The Happiest of Hours: il Porcellino
After stopping at the modiste to place an order for the finest looks arriving from Paris, give in to your mischievous side and duck into il Porcellino Monday – Friday from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM to revel in the joy of their new Happy Hour, where drink specials such as a Negroni of the Month and lovely Italian-inspired snacks will make an excellent accompaniment for poring over the latest edition of the Society Papers and social feeds.
Make a reservation at il Porcellino
Waltz onto the Stage: Bub City
Every Wednesday night, Bub City gives you the opportunity to take the stage backed by your very own live band to charm your beloved or captivate an audience (including that rakish fellow or young lady a little high in the instep who you most certainly do not desire) with songs of love and mischief. With spirits high—fueled by Malört Jell-O shots and Peach Tea—dare to let your voice soar, as every note spins a yarn as enchanting as any ball in “Bridgerton.”
Make a reservation at Bub City – Chicago
A Most Talked-About Pop-Up: Decker’s Sourdough Bagels
Word has reached this author of a most intriguing morning rendezvous—one that inspires queues longer than a debutante’s list of suitors and excitement bordering on the irrational. Decker’s Sourdough Bagels, making fleeting appearances at Wildfire in River North on Saturday mornings, have become an engagement for only the most in-the-know. Anyone hosting a late morning tea or brunch would do well to secure at least a half dozen, along with whipped cream cheese and house-made pastries. News will spread far and wide about your well-informed reputation.
Pre-order Decker’s Sourdough Bagels
Perfect Pairings: RPM Restaurants
RPM Restaurants has introduced a splendid collection of single-vineyard wines made just for RPM Steak, RPM Seafood and RPM Italian, to beguile your taste buds. Each varietal has distinct tasting notes—a velvety Chardonnay that bears the flavors of golden apple, ripe pear, candied lemon and sea spray, a Cabernet Sauvignon with notes of overripe plum, black cherry and vanilla, evoking lush fruit on the palate, and a sultry Pinot Noir with touches of cherries, strawberries, red currants, pipe tobacco and spice. This author would continue but to be quite frank….she’s beginning to blush.
Make a reservation at RPM Steak | Make a reservation at RPM Seafood | Make a reservation at the RPM Italian location nearest you
A Regal Treat: The Cookie Bar by Summer House
In between etiquette and hosting lessons, young ladies would do well to visit The Cookie Bar at Summer House to take note of the elegant and inventive cookies on offer, such as Lemon, Red Velvet Cheesecake, and German Chocolate, that will surely help their tea time tables win over even the most steely-eyed mothers of potential suitors. And in turn, those gentleman might consider sending their love match a Balloon Gift Bag with six cookies from this confectionery to convey his interest, rather than a more traditional display of affection such as floral bouquet…especially if she shares his sweet tooth.
Order from The Cookie Bar by Summer House
Swoon-worthy Soft-Serve: Sushi-san – Nashville
When the air is warm, the company agreeable, and potential love matches are wishing to linger just a moment longer, we’re finding them steering post-promenade towards Sushi-san – Nashville‘s walk-up soft-serve window. Away from the prying eyes of Gunter’s Tea Shop, couples can share some sweet glances along with a sweet treat, with flavors such as Hokkaido Vanilla and Pineapple Whip. Dearest reader, what will melt faster, their cones or their hearts?
Make a reservation at Sushi-san – Nashville
A Magical Marriage Proposal: Miru
When at last it’s time for this season’s crop of Bridgerton debutantes’ beloveds to ask for their hand in marriage, we can only pray that our gentlemen think beyond a mere knee-bending in a quiet corner. No, they must set a scene worthy of Queen Charlotte herself, complete with a candlelit path and floral arch framed by breathtaking, glittering views, one that only Miru at The St. Regis Chicago can deliver. Should they accept, a champagne toast followed by a celebratory dinner at the modern Japanese restaurant will be spoken of in certain circles for many seasons to come.
Book the perfect proposal package at Miru
