Wood "Where there's smoke"

Wood opened over the summer, apparently from the same people who own Tank Noodle and Sushi. I didn't see any mention of it here, but if there is a thread, please combine this into that one if needed.

Despite the obvious puns (they advertise their brunch as "Morning Wood") the name supposedly came from one of the owners' dads who was a wood worker, and the decor features a lot of wood. They have a wood-fired oven.

We went last night (Saturday) for an early dinner pre-theater. We got there probably around 6 and there were plenty of seats. When we left around 7:30 there were still plenty of seats - perhaps quiet due to the holiday weekend, or maybe they get a bigger crowd later. Despite it being a restaurant, it really has a bar feel, since all the seats are at high-top tables. A plus, the bar seats have backs and cushions.

All the dishes were quite tasty, though I found them all a little sweet. I would have liked some acid, or tangy cheese, or maybe a little spicy heat to vary the flavors. Everything was also soft and creamy, so some crispy/chewy might have helped. I'd go back, for sure, but might try to order a little differently.

Wood
3335 N Halsted St
Chicago, IL 60657
(between Buckingham Pl & Roscoe St)
(773) 935-9663
http://www.woodchicago.com

We went after a showing of Lincoln and before dinner at Elizabeth, had the following:

Sweet Breads – Broccoli, Chanterelles, Wheat Berries
Duck Confit – Wild Mushrooms, Corn, New Potatoes
Country Ham Flat Bread with Kale and Raclette Cheese
Chicken Liver Mousse with Grilled Bread, Pickles, Mustard
Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Mousse and Beet Ice Cream

My blog is invariably behind but all 5 dishes were quite rustic, well prepared, and balanced - particularly the flat bread which was savory, bitter, creamy, and crunchy all in the same plate - very good. Dessert was also excellent and quite large in portion.