The Chicago Traveler

Bluprint

by Matt B on November 15th, 2007

If you’ve ever been to the Merchandise Mart, you know that along with all the stores and boutiques, there are plenty of places to stop and grab a quick lunch. But if you prefer full-service over fast food, you’re in for a treat. Bluprint offers a design that is just as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate. The epitome of modern design, it is constructed of cool, blue colors; sleek, clean lines; and dark, walnut touches. A brightly lit glass and steel bar area separates the lounge from the dining room.

Relax and “nibble” on truffle and parmesan fries in the lounge. For something heartier, the lunch menu is sophisticated but comfy, as exemplified by the mac ‘n cheese, pulled pork, turkey reuben, and fish & chips. In a rush? The Designer Lunch menu offers a selection of three courses, all of which are served at once within 30 minutes. If you have some time to spare, start your dinner off with baby octopus or kona kampachi. Main entree standouts include the venison chop (served with brown butter pear, rye bread pudding, and cinnamon jus) and the day boat cod (with French lentils, celery root buttons, and chamomile). And what’s a shopping day without an excellent cocktail? I recommend the rough-draft sangria, made with Bacardi light rum, Meyer’s dark rum, pomegranate juice, orange juice, and pineapple juice. I’m also a fan of the “closet organizer”: Malibu coconut rum, Meyer’s dark rum, Frangelico, and pineapple liqueur.

The next time you’re on a spree in the Merchandise Mart, make Bluprint part of your plans.

Bluprint ($$): 222 Merchandise Mart Plaza; 312-410-9800
Lunch
Mon – Fri: 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Dinner
Mon – Thurs: 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Fri – Sat: 5:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Street parking difficult, garage available
Public trans: Bus # 11, 125 or Brown/Purple Line train (Merchandise Mart)
http://www.bluprintchicago.com/

$$, American contemporary, carry out, catering, chicago, chicago river, dinner, downtown, full bar, lounge, lunch, restaurants, river north, river west, spirits, wheelchair access

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