The Chicago Traveler

Outdoor dining can be a rarity. Chicago is currently experiencing plenty of hot and muggy weather, and in the winter we’ll have nothing but bitter winds and freezing temperatures. Windy City residents and visitors have to take advantage of the few days out of the year when the weather is kind enough to allow for al fresco eating. So if you’re going to do it anywhere, treat yourself to the top-shelf view that Shanghai Terrace has to offer.

Inside and outside, (a block north of the Apple Store) the restaurant serves up elegant French-influenced Asian fare in a lustrous environment with beautiful art and hand-carved woodwork. Hardwood floors grace the small, intimate space (seating for approximately 80) along with comforting music and soft-spoken servers.

Along with the view and the art, folks come here for the sophisticated (and pricey) menu, featuring dishes from southeast Asia. Appetizers include a sashimi platter, Kobe beef roll, and crispy Mongolian eel served with pickled papaya salad and sesame vinaigrette. For dinner, the five-spiced duck breast is simply served with mushrooms and seasonal vegetables, but it is tender and full of flavor. The steamed Cantonese-style cod fish (with ginger, scallions, and coriander soy sauce) is one of their signature dishes, and the wok-fried lobster is a must-have. You’ll be dropping quite a pretty penny for your experience here, so you might as well treat yourself to some dessert. I was a fan of the persimmon date pudding with Brazil nuts and banana milk chocolate ice cream.

Consider this a forewarning: this restaurant is centered on flavors rather than filling. Think quality, not quantity. While every dish will be absolutely refreshing and tasty, those with heartier appetites may not leave quite as full as they’d like.

Photo credit: (c/o Flickr) ulterior epicure

Shanghai Terrace ($$$$): 108 E Superior St; 312-573-6744
Reservations recommended
Lunch
Mon – Sat: 12 noon – 2:30 p.m.
Dinner
Mon – Sat: 5:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Street parking difficult; valet available
Public trans: Bus # 3, X4, 10, 26, 66, 125, 143, 144, 145, 146, 14, 148, 151 or Red Line train (Chicago)
http://chicago.peninsula.com/pch/shanghai-terrace-restaurant.html

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