The Loyalist

One’s an Alinea Vet. One’s a Trotter’s Vet. Together...

They’re Making You Norwegian Trout, Burgers and Whiskey Drinks in the West Loop

By Sam Eichner ·
None 15 Photos The Loyalist
After leaving the office today, you and some friends will head to 177 North Ada Street.

You’ll walk inside an unassuming apartment complex.

You’ll take the stairs on your left down to what appears to be a classic neighborhood tavern called the Loyalist, whose fancier analogue, Smyth, is opening upstairs next month.

It’s nice, sure, with those stained-black, herringbone-patterned walls and all that brick. Spare, too. Just a few tables here and there. Plus a very important bar.

But nothing will strike you as out of the ordinary...

That is, until one of your companions suggests ordering some food, and takes a look at this menu populated with an Alinea vet’s Norwegian trout broiled with sake lees, and roasted beets tossed in creamy pumpkin seed butter before being garnished with coriander blossoms from the garden out back.

Things will get really interesting when you try the Nothing Noble, which is like a whiskey smash spiked with a bitter Mexican liqueur. And when one of your friends samples their blanco-tequila-and-cilantro-oil concoction.

Everyone will be content, if slightly perplexed. After all, you thought this was a simple neighborhood joint.

So... let this be a lesson to you?
Sam Eichner

Sam Eichner likes literature, reality television and his twin cats equally. He has consistently been told he needs a shave since he started growing facial hair.

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