It would be almost impossible to not have an enjoyable time at Heritage Restaurant & Caviar Bar ( 2700 W. Chicago Ave.; heritage-chicago.com/ ), a deceptively laid-back spot that's at the junction of East Humboldt Park and West Ukrainian Village.
First, it might be wise to address the sturgeon in the room: Those who may be intimidated by caviar ( simply because it's caviar ) shouldn't be. The staff is more than happy to steer guests through the caviar-related part of Heritage's menu, which includes items such as gold osetra and Siberian sturgeon. ( There are also offerings such as salmon, trout and paddlefish roe for the adventurous. ) I'm not the biggest fan of fish eggs, but the ones I sampled were actually particularly tasty—although people should be aware that the items ( as expected ) are not cheap.
Also, to show the power of the vegan demographic, there is actually vegan caviar at Heritage as well ( spheres with white balsamic and truffle ). I didn't try them, so taste them at your own risk.
However, there is much more to the two-floor Heritage ( and I urge people to check out the basement space ) than roe. Oysters ( of which a variety is served ) come with garnishes of house sea-salt matzo, house mignonette and hot sauce; whitefish crudo is delicate and a spicy; and the king-crab legs ( with flying-fish roe ) is practically heaven on earth.
However, for those who are seafood-averse, there are plenty of choices as well. There's are the Heritage Burger ( shortrib, sirloin and prime ribeye burger with cheddar and garlic aioli ); baby-back ribs with peanuts and mint; dumplings ( like the beef-heart pierogi ) and noodles; heirloom tomato pie with goat cheese and caramelized onions; a savory bone-in pork chop with Carolina Gold grits; and even the Heritage Cobb salad, which comes with coal-roasted chicken, Wisconsin horseradish cheddar and sous vide egg. And, yes, there are desserts here, too, including baked Alaska ( a solid winner ) as well as raspberry-and-vanilla cake and other items.
There's also a pretty nifty wine list as well as a list of ( reasonably priced ) cocktails. I had the Upside Down and a Little Flirty—a heady but tasty mix of Imbue Pearl and Thorn, gin, sparkling wine and Luxardo Maraschino.
( By the way, this spot also serves breakfast seven days a week, with dishes such as ancient grain-and-wild rice oatmeal, fresh baked kolachki, and duck-confit biscuits and gravy. )
Note: Restaurant profiles/events are based on invitations arranged from restaurants and/or firms.
