When it comes to wine, Amy Mundwiler is a true expert. The Wine Director at Maple & Ash, a steakhouse in Chicago with a serious wine list, Mundwiler has some favorite spots around the city to enjoy a glass of grape.
“When I think about the different neighborhoods I head to for wine, I tend to think of food and wine together—not necessarily a full-on dinner, but a glass of wine and a bite to eat,” Mundwiler tells thirsty. “I’m also a creature of habit. I try to go to the new places in town, but sometimes after a long week I just want the comforts of a bar that I trust.”
And she would know: not only is Maple & Ash helmed by two Michelin star-chef Danny Grant but the wine program has been top rated by Wine Spectator.
Here, Amy’s fave spots in different areas of Chicago for sipping a nice glass of wine – along with her expert food pairings.
Lakeview: Wood
“I can always find a solid glass of wine here, and I always pair it with the chicken liver mousse, which just might be the best in the city.”
3335 N Halsted St. Chicago, IL 60657; 773-935-9663; www.woodchicago.com
Bucktown: Etta
“Ask for a porron of Txakoli from the tap and grab a pizza. Done and done.”
1840 W North Ave., Chicago, IL 60622; 312-757-4444; www.ettarestaurant.com; @ettarestaurant
River North: Sable Kitchen & Bar
“I don’t actually drink wine when I’m at Sable. I know, I know, but their cocktails are incredible! I get a bourbon cocktail and a side of fries.”
4803, 505 N State St., Chicago, IL 60654 (at Kimpton Hotel Palomar Chicago); 312-755-9704; www.sablechicago.com; @sablechicago
Gold Coast: Maple & Ash
“Sometimes when I am done for the day, I’ll head to the bar downstairs to decompress. Right now, I’m drinking our Barolo by the glass. A glass of Barolo and a steak frites is such a perfect dinner.”
8 W. Maple St., Chicago, IL 60610; 312-944-8888; www.mapleandash.com; @mapleandash
West Loop: Maude’s Liquor Bar
“Even after eight years, I still love this restaurant. I love sitting at the bar, having a glass of champagne and eating their bone marrow. It’s an amazing pairing and always cheers me up.”
840 W Randolph St., Chicago, IL 60607; 312-243-9712; www.maudesliquorbar.com; @maudesliquorbar
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