Patti is an administrative assistant that lives in Frankfort. She loves going out to Italian restaurants and says her favorite dish is the Baked Spinach Ravioli from Rocco's Little Italy. Patti says she knows her food as her friends are always asking her for restaurant recommendations on her train ride to work.
One of my most memorable recent dining experiences took place this past weekend at Eddie Merlot’s in Burr Ridge. Because my husband and I are no strangers to fine dining, we were recommended Eddie Merlot’s and decided to give it a try.
Immediately upon entering Merlot’s, one is visually astounded by the upscale contemporary décor - the lighting is colorful and festive, the stained glass pieces that hang from the ceiling are beautiful, the chairs at each table are “living room” stuffed chairs, which immediately makes you realize you will be comfortably seated in this sophisticated arena. Spacing of tables allows for easy movement around the restaurant and is conducive to privacy in conversation. Although your eyes are roaming to take in all the beautiful décor, the main attraction would have to be the floor-to-ceiling wine “cellar” encased in glass, which takes up the back wall of the restaurant. The “cellar” offers you a rare view of the large selection of the wines that Merlot’s has to offer.
You are escorted to your table by one of several hostesses and your wait staff magically appears within minutes. Our waiter, Jaime, gave a short overview of the steaks for which Merlot’s is known, and when asked, comfortably offered suggestions and comment on our selections. For appetizers, presentation of the calamari was most notable as it is served in an edible “bowl” made to look like an open clam/seashell. Upon our waiter’s recommendation, we also ordered the blue cheese potato chips which were flavorful and delicious, but not heavy. Merlot’s offers several salads, one being a wedge, however, what set Merlot’s apart, was the offer of a maple apple cider vinaigrette, which caused the taste buds to water.
For the steak lover, the bourbon marinated rib eye is a flavor explosion, while the bone-in rib eye with gorgonzola literally melted in the mouth. Sides are perfect for sharing, and the Eddie’s potatoes (diced potato with jalapeno in au gratin sauce) are a great enhancement to any entrée and something apart from the everyday baked potato. The Brussels sprouts with cippollini onions and diced bacon would make a veggie eater out of anyone. They were a taste bonanza. Each course is brought to the table and served by wait staff and managers so that the entire table is served at one time.
Eddie Merlot’s is a fine dining experience geared for the diner who wants to savor and enjoy each course with the perfect down time in between. General manager Jeff Stoltman and his staff are devoted to making you feel pampered. Merlot’s is the perfect place for that special occasion, even if that special occasion is simply because it’s a Saturday!
Eddie Merlot's
201 Bridewell Drive
Burr Ridge, Illinois 60527
(630) 468-2098
I agree! Eddie Merlot's is a great dining experience from the outstanding aged steaks, to the execellent selections of windes to the service and ambiance. They really do a nice job and I too highly recommend! There is another one in Warrenville as well.
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