So I was in Chicago and was craving something different. Different flavours, different atmosphere and I stumbled across Emilio's.
I'm glad I did.
This place F'in rocks!!! I went in with the expectation of getting some Paella for dinner but when I arrived the atmosphere and quality/friendliness of the waitstaff made me want more. I tried some tapa's PLATO DE JAMÓN SERRANO was excellent so that led me to the PULPO A LA PLANCHA which was excellent as well. Full of flavour and the contrasting textures with light dressing on top was a perfect follow up to the white sangria that I tried.
They really knocked it out of the park with the first couple plates.
At this point I was mid way through the test drive and it was time to see what this place can really do so I punched it and went for the PAELLA A LA VALENCIANA with a red sangria. I felt that both were more traditional so I thought it would be a good gauge vs my previous experiences with other Spanish restaurants. It did not disappoint! The paella was so flavourful and the shrimp, chicken, clams over the yellow rice were wonderful. The red sangria was a nice addition as it was fruity but not overpowering. It was all perfect for the hot few days that I was in Chicago.
Let's take a pause here to show some love to the bar. They offer a fully stocked and really nice looking bar area. I was ok to sit there and take in all the pictures and surroundings but it started to cool down in the evening and sitting outside just sounded awesome. Shoutout to the lightning fast bartender too!
They have this super interesting wine list too full of regional selections and traditional varietals. Having worked in the wine industry for 16 years I really wanted to take the wine list for a spin but at the same time I knew I was racking up the miles on my bill as-is so I let that one go. Next time...
Lets recap... Awesome starters with a light sangria, Check! Main event with a red sangria, knocked it out of the park! Any normal person would be like, "Ok, let's call it a day" but I didn't travel 2000 miles just for OK.
For the last leg of my spanish dining trip I ordered a marinated cherry over homemade vanilla ice cream topped with mascarpone and nuts thing. Sorry I forgot the name. That took it over the top. Again, I debated about ordering a spanish sherry or something but held out. I should've though lol. The dessert was so delicious. It was sweet but not overbearing which is perfect for me. The textures of the ice cream and the whipped topping was a really nice touch.
In closing, you can tell that the owner/chef and staff really care about this restaurant. It was an absolute blast of an experience and something that I really enjoyed against the stereotypical Chicago dining experience.
The next time I come back to the 'CHI I will absolutely stop by and you should too!
D J.
Juan Arroyo
Lisa S.
Bea A.
Joanna b.
