Publican, The

Reviewed by MikeandAnnie on 11/14/2009.
Member since September 2009, Total Reviews: 2 (20s, Machesney Park, IL)

Fantastic beer selection, complete with Belgian beers that even my Belgian friends haven't heard of. And Matilda on draft! The food is fantastic, and a great place for bringing a group to share - food comes out as it's ready, so passing and grazing work well here. The Serrano ham takes me to my happy place, and the pork belly rocks. Overall, I'd call it a great representation of Chicago... good beer, and a meal that's heavy in a good way.

Reviewed by a289964 on 11/04/2009.
Member since March 2007, Total Reviews: 15 (Chicago, IL)

All dishes in the menu (which changes daily) are perfectly executed. It's a very fun and lively space, and the service is excellent. If you like Avec, you'll love the Publican as well. The staff is very knowledgeable about the food, beer, and wine, so they can make recommendations regarding what to get and what to pair it with. Overall a solid dinner option!

Reviewed by STWLJW on 10/25/2009.
Member since November 2003, Total Reviews: 21 (Huntington Beach, CA)

We just had brunch there. Way ahead of anything we have seen in LA (home) in new style restaurants. If you love flavor, go there immediately. Plan ahead for dinner reservations. Publican is a reference to the long public style tables where you are next to your neighbors. If you want to have a private meal, ask for a booth (with "pig pen" doors) along the walls Portions are large. And, yes, the pork rinds are a great hot light appetizer.

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Reviewed by 80knots on 10/18/2009.
Member since October 1999, Total Reviews: 245 (Male, 30s, New York, NY)

This place looks like a cross between a German beer hall and a pig pen. Lots of interesting beers on tap. The menu is heavy on the pork products. Food is good and hearty. Not refined and there is no attempt at refinement. Good food on a plate. A bit pricey for what you get.

0 out of 1 people found the following review helpful:

Reviewed by LakeHouse on 10/05/2009.
Member since August 2000, Total Reviews: 9 (Arlington Heights, IL)

Gives new meaning to "Greasy Spoon" - plus expensive and uncomfortable. Food was heavy on grease, low on flavor. Gourmet pork rinds?! Vegies were mushy & bland or barely warmed. Slow service/seating (even with a reservation) made slower when only one dish came at a time for the whole table. Noise levels of a Pearl Jam concert, and community hand-washing was awkward to say the least. Go for a great beer, and then go somewhere else to eat.