We are told that Embeya is having a soft opening. Can there be such a thing, for a highly anticipated restaurant? (To judge by the interest in our slideshow, Embeya has been much more anticipated than we might have, uh, anticipated.) They’re trying; for instance, they’re discouraging food photos this week, which implies they will actually be learning from diners the first week and making adjustments, which is admirable (but also means the first tweeted pics from diners, which will surely be any moment now, will be that much more highly scrutinized). And there will surely be blog posts, followed quickly by a Redeye review (they go first now, like the Iowa caucus), and if newly opened Embeya isn’t up to RIA standards in its first week, there will be gnashing of blog-teeth and rending of reviewer disguises. We suggest taking a deep breath, but in the meantime, here’s the opening menu for Embeya, the new upscale Asian restaurant from chef Thai Dang, and “director” (there’s a new one) Attila Gyulai, both formerly of RIA. As for Embeya, we predict a hot, widely-covered opening few weeks and a long and successful life.
Embeya menu [PDF]
Embeya, 564 W. Randolph, 312-612-5640.
Previously: First Look at Embeya: From Last Night’s Laurent Gras Pop-Up
Danielle Pizzutillo on Making Cocktails For Embeya’s Food, Plus First Look at Embeya’s Drink List
