A Chicago Favorite - Maple & Ash

Grab a glass and join me for a little restaurant review!

I've been wanting to take a trip down memory lane to Maple & Ash for a WHILE! If you're local to Chicago, I am sure this is one of your favorite spots too. If you've never heard of Maple & Ash or aren't sure where to eat while you're visiting Chicago, definitely add this to your list of culinary experiences! The head of the kitchen at Maple & Ash is a two-time Michelin-starred CUTIE named Danny Grant. It won't take you very long after diving into your first dish to discover why he's earned those titles. It also doesn't hurt that the restaurant’s entrance and ambiance enhances the enjoyment of your experience here!

I think anyone that has been to Maple & Ash could go on for hours about their menu because there are so many delicacies that it can be hard to decide on the perfect full course meal. If you are truly struggling with the decision making process, don't fret! They also have unique menu option for indecisive eaters that is called the "I Don't Give a F*@k" where they take care of your unknown, inner foodie desires for $200 per person. It sounds wild, but it's a steal! If you'd like a few personal recommendations on what to try while you're dining at this chic spot, keep on scrolling!

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Without falling victim to traditional appetizers like steak tartare or a wedge salad, be sure to try some of these fan favorite items on the menu instead! I can almost always recommend their WOOD GRILLED SPANISH OCTOPUS served with alsify, meyer lemon, cured olive & salsa verde! If you want an alternative to a seafood starter option, the ROASTED BONE MARROW with parsley, tropea onion, lemon & brown butter brioche is beyond savory!

You all probably know by now that I love oysters, and Maple & Ash's never disappoint! They tend to disappear from the shell very quickly! If you’re tired of hearing about oysters, you’ll be excited for what’s coming up NEXT!

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There are so many things that I could recommend to you guys but my absolute FAVORITE FAVORITE FAVORITE thing to order here is FIRE ROASTED SEAFOOD TOWER!

I have NEVER had a seafood tower that is this mouth watering! I dream about losing myself in between bites of the scallops and crab! What makes it so special and memorable to your taste buds?

>> The collection of seafood that you choose for your tower is roasted in the hearth and finished with a garlic butter and chili oil! The chili oil is definitely the kicker ingredient here! It’s so warm and flavorful that it blows all other seafood towers out of the water! Don't even order seafood towers anywhere else except for Maple & Ash and BLVD in Chicago... (unless you're in Spain or Portugal - that changes things a little haha).

We ordered ours with a side of their whipped & buttered potatoes and it was the perfect combo to finish off our meal after all of the starters that we ordered. I love how this tower is served! You can totally build it even more elaborately, but this gave me a very European style vibe! It was the perfect serving amount to truly indulge without being gluttonous. Don't hesitate to get this if you want the ultimate Maple & Ash experience!

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If you still have room for dessert after consuming so much yumminess, I can only recommend the one dessert that I have tried at Maple & Ash. It's a wee bit cliche on paper, but the chocolate cake is generous and heavenly! It's made with layers of coffee mousse and topped candied hazelnuts & vanilla ice cream! It's the ultimate slice of chocolate cake and so easy to share!

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Leave a comment below and share some of your favorite things to order at Maple & Ash if you've been! I love sharing inspiration and recommendations for Chicago locals and new visitors!

Happy Indulging!