Like its Boystown counterpart, Lady Gregory’s is refined in a comfortable way. A “library” adorned with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves sits in the back and dark paneling and comfortable booths line the walls. It’s the ideal setting to sip scotch—and there are about 300 selections. Kyle McHugh, who previously worked at liquor store Drinks over Dearborn, is the beverage director, and he is nothing short of a scotch aficionado. He’s compiled an impressive list, and even designed several scotch flights to introduce newbies to all of the different varieties.
Lady Gregory’s is a fine place to gather for drinks with friends, but after a round or two, the smells coming from the kitchen will probably tempt you to order some food—and you should. There are plenty of light nibbles like the now ubiquitous fancy deviled egg. Lady Gregory’s version is lined with a drop of Thai chili oil and topped with a bit of roasted garlic. Other notable small plates include the artichoke dip, which is upgraded with sharp white cheddar, and a couple of tasty flatbreads, which are a substantial snack for just $6.
If you’re looking for something more substantial, Lady Gregory has plenty of hearty Irish pub fare like shepherd’s pie and a chicken pot pie that is topped with a buttery and flaky puff pastry. Fish and chips are always a solid choice, and Lady Gregory’s version is very well executed. The creamy decadent mac and cheese you may have come to love at Wilde is also on the menu at Lady Gregory’s, but this version has truffle cream, big chunks of lobster and a cornbread crust. It’s happiness in a bowl. Carnivores are in for a treat with several burger choices like one topped with brie and fried onions and another glazed in Guinness. The burgers are delicious, but I do have to say that they were served with a soggy bottom bun on more than one visit.
The dessert menu at Lady Gregory’s is an unexpected pleasant surprise. The Guinness chocolate cheesecake is inventive and tasty, but my top recommendation is the bostok pastry. It tastes like an almond croissant, but in French toast form, and is served with a big dollop of fresh whipped cream on the side. All in all, I think Lady Gregory’s is a welcome addition to the Andersonville neighborhood and does a good job of rounding out the types of cuisine available on the Clark strip.
Lady Gregory’s is at 5260 N. Clark; call 773-271-5050 or visit www.ladygregorys.com.
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