There’s been a bit of mystique surrounding the opening of Nightwood; its location—an oasis in a somewhat underdeveloped Pilsen environs—and its namesake the Djuna Barnes novel, apparently an homage to owner Jason Hammel’s literary past. Not left out of the anticipatory buzz has been eager speculation about Nightwood’s menu, especially among Lula devotees.
And now the big reveal: having just recently opened its doors, the buzz is that Nightwood’s dinner offerings, changing almost daily, should satisfy Chicago gourmands and hipsters alike. A sample menu, posted today on the TOC blog, includes deep fried Mississippi prawns, suckling pig and morel ravioli, and wood-grilled trout.
Art and Chelsea of The Pleasant House have already checked it out and proclaimed it a great addition to the neighborhood. Initial Yelp reviews, though still few at this point, have commented on Nightwood’s “delicious” food and the freshness of its ingredients, also citing the “really wonderful service” as “ridiculously attentive.”
Nightwood’s interior features an open kitchen lined with seating for those who wish to observe, and, true to its name, walnut woodwork throughout. There is also a covered patio for dining semi-al fresco.
– Hanna Andrews
