It's not hard to notice Brendan Sodikoff's influence on Au Cheval: dim lighting, exposed brick, dark booths, candles, and music loud enough to call for elevated voices. The West Loop restaurant, which just opened last week, has the same feel as Sodikoff's other projects, Maude's Liquor Bar and Gilt Bar.

The diner influence is a little more difficult to make out, but you can see glimpses of it in the classic comfort food on the menu, the counter that faces a line of chefs at the griddle, and in the easygoing but knowledgeable servers. From the food to the laid back vibe, this is an establishment that wants you to enjoy yourself.

It's too easy to imagine stumbling into Au Cheval while the world is spinning, lights are blurring, and your stomach growling for greasy food. You'd slur an order, and in no time you would be diving face first into a salty, greasy mess of a burger. But I imagine it's just as satisfying during more sober times.

Take a look at some of the dishes you can sample at this new addition to the West Loop scene.

Au Cheval

800 W Randolph St, Chicago 60607 (map)
312-929-4580
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