A Family Affair -Rustico Grill

Jenn, Mom, Mia 2.27.2010

Matt and I are still going strong in efforts to stop and taste all 52 Chicago based restaurants in the A La Card deck. I'm starting to think he is totally regretting ever giving me the deck in the first place. Our latest stop was at Rustico Grill in Logan Square, what made this flavorful adventure so amazing is that we were joined by my family! Matt and I usually head to the burbs to hang out with the Baldos in the house and suburb I grew up in, but with the A La Card challenge in the for front of my mind they agreed to join us in checking out Rustico Grill. Family is extremely important to me so having mom, dad and Mia join us meant a lot. I am so lucky to have such a close family who lives so close! We truly enjoy each other's company (most days) and find pleasure in being together.

Rustico Grill is located on restaurant row in Logan Square. This space is just charming; with a

rustic vibe and amazing chandelier that sets the mood in the cozy space. We started the night off with a drink and some appetizers: Empanadas de Chiloris (filled with shredded pork in acncho chile, onion and orange juice), Guacamole, Ceviche de Pescado and Chile Relleno en Escabeche (poblano pepper stuffed with potatoes & choriz) . Hands down the empanadas and the chile relleno were spectacular - they exuded surprising flavors and prepared our pallets for the main event.

We ordered strategically making sure there weren't any duplicates at the table! Honestly, with the unique flavors used on all chef Raul Arreola's dishes you can't go wrong at Rustico Grill. However, don't skip the Callos a la Poblana (grilled sea scallops in a creamy poblano sauce), Camarones al Mojo de Ajo (wood grilled black tiger shrimp with sweet garlic sauce) and Cochinta Pibil (slow roasted pork marinated with achiote and sour orange juice).

Rustico Grill offers a great setting with unique flavors and is definitely worth checking out! They are up for Chicago's Time Out best new Mexican restaurant!

Thanks Baldo family for a wonderful evening of family bonding time and good eats.
With love,
Matt and Jenn