The third installment of the monthly Cocktails & Cufflinks series was held last evening at Nouveau Tavern, located in the swank and trendy River North neighborhood. Nouveau Tavern is a New Orleans-style restaurant in the River North neighborhood of Chicago. Guests are transported to the French Quarter with a serious dining experience in elegant, yet festive, surroundings and with friendly service from welcoming staff. The menu, created by Executive Chef Norman Hargrove, formerly of The Peninsula Hotel Chicago’s Pierrot Gourmet, is inspired by cuisine of the diverse and delicious South. The result is an assortment of traditional New Orleans dishes with a Nouveau twist, a contemporary take on traditional dishes, including “Shrimp And Grits,” “Seafood Gumbo,” and “Nouveau Jambalaya.” The drink program included innovative and versatile selections of the classics, including unique takes on well-known Southern drinks.

Located on Ontario Street in River North just west of Orleans Street, the New Orleans-inspired space was designed by D+K Architects and Interiors. It balances tonal woods and modern metallic elements with a cool, neutral color palette and warm, organic materials to give Nouveau Tavern a kinetic and eclectic atmosphere. As the after-work socials descended, we were treated to an exceptional wait-staff that inclined our pallets with mid-priced entrée’s that came with 3 glasses of wine for a penny. The popular selection was the Nouveau Burger. An 8oz Angus Beef, Aged White Cheddar, Roasted Yellow Peppers, Remoulade, Romaine Lettuce, Tomato and Onion entrée served with Sweet Potato Fries. My wine of choice was a 2010 Malbec. What was supposed to be three glasses, turned into two bottles on the house. As business cards were exchanged, conversations delighted and connections were made. The evening caped with two specialty cocktails. The Sazerac Cocktail, (Hennessy VS, Simple, Peychauds & Absinthe Rinse) and a Basil Hayden (Bourbon). Kudos to the team for another successful event. See ya next month!….Deo