2nd Street Enoteca

Last night, I had the pleasure of dining at the 2nd Street Enoteca, the Italian sister restaurant to the 2nd Street Bistro. Two friends and I arrived at 8:15 with reservations and the place was full. We were seated promptly even though the restaurant was quite busy with a charity event.

My friend brought a nice bottle of Pinot Noir wine to this BYOB establishment and the wine was uncorked - no corkage fee - and poured for us.

We decided to try several dishes and share each one. My friend's wife ordered a salad from the daily specials chalk board. It was a delicious mixture of greens with cranberries, roasted walnuts and a nice vinaigrette dressing. I love mussels and ordered the PEI mussels. The dish was made with Pinot Grigio, garlic and olive oil sauce accompanied by toasted dipping bread. The mussels were steamed to perfection and we all enjoyed them! One could make an entire meal out of the portion provided.

For our entrees, we ordered the chicken ala cacciatore, which is listed on the specials board. We also had the whitefish served on a bed of spinach with a nice white wine sauce, cherry tomatoes and artichoke hearts. The fish was some of the freshest I've had in many years. The chicken was served with a wonderful sauce including mushrooms with green and red bell peppers cooked just right.

Desserts are available and change regularly. The strawberry-rhubarb cobbler we shared was truly wonderful. It can be ordered with a choice of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream. Since it is a seasonal dessert, apple cobbler was available last fall and in the winter, mixed berries cobbler was available. We did not have room for other dessert offerings such as bread pudding, carrot cake, or chocolate cake.

Our server was pleasant, but could have been more attentive. I am sure the management is aware of this and for a casual dining place, it's a minor issue.

Overall we had a fine evening. Owners Bobby and Debbie Dubin should be congratulated for bringing such a wonderful blend of old and new Italian favorites to our town. Also, if you are hungry at lunchtime, I have been told that many of the dinner items are also available (at reduced prices).

Regards,
Grandpa Bob

Location:
1825 Second St.
Highland Park, IL 60035
847-432-6550
http://www.2ndstreetenoteca.com
Hours: Tues - Thurs. 5 to 9 pm, Fri & Sat. 5 to 10 pm

For our entrees, we ordered the chicken ala cacciatore, which is listed on the specials board. We also had the whitefish served on a bed of spinach with a nice white wine sauce, cherry tomatoes and artichoke hearts.

Did they come with a side salad?
(hat tip dave148)