Did I mention that I love to get brunch? Back to back brunch entries! I had some friend from out of town visit last weekend, so we all went to the Publican in the Near West Side for Sunday brunch. One of my friends said that the Publican was the best place for brunch in Chicago. I will have to admit…hard to disagree. Thinking back on the experience, I have nothing but praise on the entire experience.
We had reservations at noon and only half of the party actually showed up at noon. The staff knew that we were waiting for the rest of the party and brought out a waffle for us, on the house. They said that they had an extra. I had a similar experience with the Publican in the past. I went to the Publican for a birthday dinner once and they were 30 minutes late seating us. Once we finally got our seats, they had provided us a handful of appetizers on the house. I have to applaud them for their desire to make sure their patrons are happy.
So right off the bat, I was extremely happy with the staff at the Publican. The waffle was topped with raspberries and honey butter. It was very sweet and very good. We finished it off pretty fast and just in time because the rest of the party came pretty soon after we finished the waffle.
The menu for brunch isn’t that extensive; maybe 8 to 10 entrees and some side items. My friend and I ordered a side of maple syrup braised bacon (to share) and I went with the grilled pork shoulder sandwich topped with cabbage, bacon, and a fried egg on a ciabatta bun.
The bacon came out first and my god it was the most delicious bacon I have ever had in my entire life. It was a thick piece of pork belly and the meat was tender and full of flavor. You can definitely taste the maple syrup and it went so well with the bacon.
When my grilled pork shoulder sandwich came out, I couldn’t wait to try it. The piece of pork was much larger than I had anticipated (also made it hard to fit into my mouth). The egg was cooked perfectly (it was runny) and the sandwich was a bit of a mess to eat, but so worth it. I had egg yolk, dressing, and oil from the pork all over my fingers, around my mouth, and a little on my nose.
I mentioned in my last entry that I was a huge fan of eggs benedicts. The Publican had their version of one: a red wine poached egg with prosciutto, grilled bread and béarnaise. I was debating getting this dish but was afraid that it wouldn’t be enough. My friend actually ordered it and now I want to go back and try it.
Hand down the best brunch I have had in Chicago yet. For all the brunch lovers out there, go to the Publican…you will not leave disappointed. They are a little pricey; my meal came out to be 23 bucks. Also, there is plenty of free parking in the area.
Eating in Chicago 