Acadia in Wonderland

We kicked off our extra-long Lollapalooza weekend with a fanciful dinner at Acadia - chef Ryan McCaskey's little South Loop gem. Almost hidden off of Wabash, this one is not to be missed. The evening started off with delicious craft cocktails with house-made ice cubes and a side of edible foliage at the bar. We were then led to our corner table for what evolved into a two-hour culinary kaleidoscope for both our taste buds and our eyes.

We tried many items on the menu - including four different desserts - but the Foie Gras was the best of the first courses...if you're into that sort of thing. The little flaky biscuits with salted butter on the side came compliments of the kitchen just before our main course and they were so good we asked for a second helping.

Although disappointed not to see what has been dubbed McCaskey's "ultimate dish" on the menu - the Yukon potato "Risotto" with leeks and summer truffle (FYI the online menu is not current) - the Stonington Lobster Pie more than made up for it. A deconstructed lobster pot pie with a sour cream pastry and the most tender hunks of lobster were coalesced by the rich and creamy broth our waiter poured into the dish.

All in all Acadia is worth investigating. Though portions are on the smaller side (we ordered four different items for each of the three courses for a four-person dinner), the presentation and flavors will keep you happy. Check out some photos from our dinner below...