Kindling | Downtown Cookout & Cocktails
John Starnes · 140 Google reviewsKindling | Downtown Cookout & Cocktails — reliable american in Loop. Come for the food, stay for the energy. [patio]
What 633 diners keep saying
What 633 diners keep saying
verbatim, from Google
“This was only our second time eating at Kindling but it was just as awesome as the first time. Instead of going the traditional route of appetizers, then entree then dessert, we made an entire meal and experience of all appetizers. Zack & Maya our servers were very attentive but not intrusive and Matt the restaurant manager was keeping a close eye on all the diners to ensure everyone had a great experience. We dined at the “Hearth” that overlooks the fire pits where all the meats and other proteins are cooked. It is a very unique and special experience that I highly recommend. There is not one item on the menu that is not phenomenally delicious, but I have to say that the Peruvian-inspired Hamachi was a standout! Find the time to make a reservation and you won’t be disappointed.”
“We loved this Chef Jonathan Sawyer restaurant in downtown Chicago. The good was very delicious and the"smoked" theme throughout the menu was delightful. I think the carrots were the best carrots we've ever had - so naturally sweet and yummy! Beyond the food, Kindling has very comfortable atmosphere with plants and calm decorations. All the employees we interacted with were friendly and were genuinely excited about the food here. Thanks for a great meal!”
“This was my first time visiting Kindling, and let me say everything was a 10/10. My waiter, Luis, was very attentive and kind. I had my lunch outside on the patio, and I loved the greenery and flowers surrounding me. The drinks were 👌🏾—they were made so well that I had to know the bartender’s name. Selena crafted them perfectly. I’m not a big drinker, but my drinks were perfect! I will definitely be back when I visit Chicago in the near future.”
“Lobster bisque here is life-changing. Hands down the best I've ever had. Also tried the brussel sprouts and a bonus burrata. Everything was excellent! Service was delightful, and decor is interesting and pleasnat. Would give 10 stars if I could 🧡 (Forgive that the photos are of almost consumed food 🤣)”
“Food is amazing, atmosphere is great and our server Destinee was truly the best. Wonderful experience”
“I've came two months in a row. I'm half Jamaican and I AM a Chicago native. I've had food from EVERYWHERE in the city. JOHNATHAN IS THE TRUTH! I LOVE food. I COOK! The overall vibe/atmosphere is Amazing! Man thank you bro. I appreciate your cooking skills and what you bring to the cooking/food culture.”
“We loved our stop at the Kindling! The drinks were amazing & perfectly curated! Vince was an amazing bartender with superb recommendations & lively chatter! The scallops were cooked perfectly & the chicken thigh skewer was better than we could have hoped! We will definitely be back!”
“¡Una joya en el Downtown! Si estás buscando un lugar con excelente ambiente, tragos de primer nivel y comida espectacular, Kindling es un must. Fuimos a cenar y cada plato y bebida que llegó a la mesa superó las expectativas. Estuvimos sentados en The Heart (la zona central del lugar), y la vibra ahí es inmejorable: estás justo en el centro de la acción, con una vista fantástica de la energía del restaurante y la cocina a la leña. Esto fue lo que probamos: Confit Chicken Wings: Crujientes por fuera, increíblemente tiernas por dentro y llenas de sabor. No son las clásicas alitas; se nota la técnica y el nivel en la cocina. Chef’s Choice Wood Fired Oysters (Docena): Espectaculares. El toque ahumado de la leña realza por completo la frescura de los ostiones. Definitivamente un imperdible para empezar. Sawyer Style Steak Frites: El corte en su término perfecto, jugoso y con una costra de sellado impecable. Las papas fritas, adictivas. Una ejecución de diez. Twice Cooked Sweet Potatoes: El acompañamiento ideal. Ese contraste de texturas con la doble cocción y el balance de sabor quedó increíble. Para tomar: Old Fashioned: Preparado con maestría. De un gran nivel, con el balance perfecto de amargor y dulzura, ideal para abrir la noche. Tikal Natural Vista Flores 2023 (Malbec/Syrah Blend): Un verdadero poema de vino. Este blend orgánico tiene una estructura y una frutosidad que complementaron de manera espectacular el ahumado de los ostiones y la intensidad del steak frites. La atmósfera del lugar tiene toda la vibración urbana y sofisticada del Downtown sin perder lo acogedor, y el servicio fue atento de principio a fin. ¡Sin duda regresaremos pronto! Altamente recomendado.”
“Excellent service all around from our server Luis & the manager Matt. Can't wait to return!”
“Kindling was a wonderful experience, made even more so by our server Maddie Kay! The food was outstanding, and the ambiance of the restaurant warm and inviting. My only regret was that I had no room for dessert! Highly recommend Kindling for that special evening.”
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