Henri

We went to Henri as a treat during our visit to Chicago.  In a town with so many high end food choices, we decided to treat ourselves to a world class lunch before visiting a world class museum (the Art Institute, literally across the street.)  Everything we had was phenomenal - from our delicious drinks, to the incredible food, to the stellar service.  We took our time and relaxed into one of the nicest lunches I've ever had.

We were here on a Sunday night, because of the train we were early for our reservations. It was a quiet night most of the patrons were much older then us, and there were not many. The slow night did not reflect the quality of the food or the service. We had the tasting menu with the wine pairings. The food was exceptional and all but the last pairing were spot on. The bright stars were the amuse of main lobster over a brine gele with micro greens, paired with there version of a side car made with Pineau des Charentes and rye whisky. Delightful. The first course of foie gras made my dinner partner melt in front of me. It was paired perfectly with a dry cider form Normandy. The only true negative was the hand soap in the bathroom the sent was very strong, nice but each time I took a bite I could smell it, not I think what the chef wanted me to experience. The server did bring me a cloth and lemon to remove the sent, I very much appreciated the understanding. Over all the quality and experience were far better then the price, and empty dinning room suggested.

Five star dining in a beautiful room without the pretention

The staff at Henri is professional but friendly. Conversation between patrons and staff flows freely while the kitchen prepares exceptional fare and the bar shakes unique drinks

It is imperative to me that I find a chef's tasting menu with wine pairings for my birthday. Last year I flew to Georgetown for that. This year I was happy to discover Henri on Michigan Avenue across the street from Millennium Park

The restaurant is beautiful in its appointments and colors. Beautiful chandeliers hang throughout the space and the soft blue-grey colors create a dining room boudoir-esque feeling that is comfortable but formal. The only miss on the décor is the odd choice of floral photographs on the walls that don't seem to fit with the restaurant or its location
To the tasting menu, I believe I was there the last night of this particular (and incomplete) menu, but it is worth reliving

Foie gras paired with hard cider was a revelation

Black bass was actually trout, paired with Chenin Blanc

Wood roasted squab paired with Pinot Noir (my favorite dish and pairing)

Bison with smoked potatoes paired with Cabernet Sauvignon

A forgettable 'honey' dessert reminscient of a semi-freddo paired with a nice amber dessert wine

Easy to recommend, rather, highly recommended. I would love to return, even if it were just for a few cocktails and a bread basket