deca RESTAURANT + BAR Opens 5/1 On The Magnificent Mile

The Magnificent Mile welcomes a vibrant new neighborhood eatery, when deca RESTAURANT + BAR opens officially on Monday, May 3, 2010 at 160 East Pearson St. (The Ritz-Carlton Chicago). The name says it all...a 2010 approachable concept and sure to be a "10" with its brasserie-influenced cuisine, inviting art deco-inspired décor and engaging, sophisticated bar.

Designed by BraytonHughes Design Studios, the restaurant will evoke a casual, comfortable elegance, from its warm earth tones to its glassware, morning to night. Each table will have an adjustable lamp to create its own atmosphere, (also rechargeable to be eco-friendly), and two iPads will be available to guests for newspaper and magazine reading.

Executive Chef Mark Payne and his innovative culinary team will present authentic menus that celebrate classic dishes with creative, inventive twists and feature locally-sourced and fresh ingredients.

Begin with Steamed Mussels served with French Fries; or Leeks Vinaigrette, with Fourme D'Ambert Blue Cheese and Caramelized Walnuts, to name a handful of appetizers offered. Or, indulge in Fruits de Mer, a dramatic Tower of Fresh Seafood and Shellfish with assorted sauces. Salads include: a fresh Ahi Tuna Confit Salade Nicoise; Green Asparagus with Burrata Cheese, Spring Peas and Basil; and Maine Lobster Salad. Sandwiches stand on their own, with such specialties as Croque Madame, Char Grilled Wagyu Burger and Wild Mushroom Rosemary Focaccia. Among other dishes showcased are: Crispy Boneless Half Chicken; Flat Iron Steak Frite; Mediterranean Roasted Sea Bass; Trofie Pasta with Clams, Parsley, Lemon, Chili and Broccoli Rabe; and Pizzettas.

There will be "Plats de Jour" every day of the week, including such delicacies as Berkshire Pork Chop, Beef Bourguignon and Soft Shell Crab. Side dishes include Mac & Cheese; Yukon Gold Potato Puree; and Truffle French Fries, to name a few.

Like its namesake, there will be a ‘Deca'-dent 10-Layer Chocolate Cake. Also, Pastry Chef Eric Esrella will present such irresistible desserts as: Lemon Tarte with Sable Crust and Fresh Raspberries; Vanilla Ice Cream Profiteroles with Warm Chocolate Sauce; and much more.

The wine list sweetens the deal at deca RESTAURANT + BAR with over 40 wines (50% of the wine list) served by the glass. In celebration of the opening, all bottles (which range from $40 to $90) and glasses will be half-price with a dinner purchase, Sunday through Thursday, from opening day through Labor Day.

The bar is situated behind the famous Ritz sky-lit fountain, with ceiling to floor windows for a captivating view of Chicago's skyscrapers. The chic, yet also engaging deca bar area is furnished with sophistication and ease in mind, with stylized wing back leather chairs surrounding the bar and cocktail tables and upholstered ottomans, all resting on handmade area rugs. Mini Kobe Beef Sliders; Crispy Calamari; Duck Fat French Fries, Chef Payne's own unique version; and Artisan Cheeses served with Preserved Walnuts and Crispy Fruit Bread, are among the very tasty bites on the bar menu.

deca RESTAURANT + BAR is the perfect neighborhood dining spot, day or night. With a versatile menu, friendly setting and attentive staff, dining at deca will be an experience worth repeating. For more information and reservations, call deca RESTAURANT + BAR at 312-573-5160.

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