The Whale - Chicago
A throwback to the fashionable casinos of the 1940s and 1950s, The Whale is located in Logan Square. The vibrant and colorfully hued venue is owned by Legacy Hospitality, the same team behind The Vig (Old Town) and Welcome Back Lounge.
Its Logan Square location is peculiar, considering the neighborhood mostly caters to craft cocktail and craft beer concepts. But that's probably why it draws a lively crowd on a regular basis. It's much different from its area counterparts.
The scene here is something you'd typically find in the Gold Coast: extremely fashionable groups dining in high style, whether they're imbibing or noshing on hearty portions of grilled lamb chops, steak frites and fried chicken topped with crystal honey sauce.
Other menu highlights may be found on a late-night menu (food is served on weekend nights until 12:30am), such as Korean-glazed short ribs, BBQ jackfruit and a Creole pulled pork sandwich.
During weekend brunch, The Whale rolls just as big. You'll be tempted to bring larger groups for "brunch towers" of 90 ounces to 100 ounces of mimosas, Bellinis or sangria. Menu delights range from fried lobster and waffles to a blueberry muffin skillet.
