Karyn’s on Green is the newest (just opened last month!) of the Karyn’s Chicago vegetarian restaurants. After reading a good review by a non-vegetarian in Time Out! Chicago, an adventurous friend and I decided to give it a try.
Located in Greek Town, the restaurant wasn’t a far drive from downtown Chicago, but definitely not the most convenient location. The atmosphere was just as the website describes – contemporary, stylish and vegan. High ceilings, unique lighting and an upstairs loft lounge finally make vegan Chicago dining cool.
The service was impeccable. As soon as I walked in, someone took my coat, escorted me to my table and pulled out my chair – distinctly not the hippie place that I had imagined. No jeans or Birkenstocks in sight; instead, people were dressed for a night out. Water was waiting on our table, and the waitress was attentive and knowledgeable, but never overbearing.
The website suggests that “the food is served in an atmosphere so chic you’ll forget it’s good for you,” which isn’t really the case. The food is light and tastes healthy, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. The eggplant cannelloni small plate was great; the cannelloni wrap was a bit off texture-wise, but the flavors were great – especially the rosemary cream. My Crispy Chicken Legs came out just as we were finishing our starter, and they didn’t disappoint. My newly vegetarian friend remarked on how close to real chicken the texture was. However, the Sweet Potato Hash and Swish Chard with Kentucky barbecue sauce outshined them. The BBQ Bacon Meatloaf wasn’t as expected; it was more of a veggie patty, but still delicious. After a little debate, Ice Cream Cookies were chosen over Chocolate Terrine and Carrot Cake for dessert. Three types of sorbet; oatmeal, peanut butter and coconut were served with two thin wafers. The wafers could have been left off the plate, but the sorbet was so much better than it sounds – one of the best things I ate there, and like everything else; light and flavorful.
The drink menu is as thoughtful and green as the menu. Diners can pick from a sustainable and organic wine list, or try one of the cocktails or mock tails, sorted by century. I tried The South Side (20th Century), which consisted of gin, fresh lime juice, mint and grapefruit bitters. It was so delicious and refreshing; I could have enjoyed this drink all night. Overall, Karyn’s on Green is going down as one of my favorite restaurants in Chicago.
The Chicago restaurant could easily handle groups; it has an open floor plan. The lofted lounge was modern and hip – a good place for pre-dinner cocktails or private dining. Catering is also available.
Hey! We are having a tweet up Thursday - Travelers Night In #TNI & would love to have you as a host! Theme is Sun & Fun. Let me know!
