Chicago Fine Dining: Tru
For over 10 years, Tru has been considered one of Chicago’s top restaurants for fine dining. Offering “progressive French” food and impeccable service, it’s a “must” for many serious foodies visiting the city.
Tru offers several different styles of dining. You can order a la carte, prix fixe, or a multi-course tasting menu. The $95 3-course prix-fix offers a choice of appetizer like gnocchi in a white veal glaze, or a prime beef tartare with a gold-leaf wrapped quail egg and white truffle; a choice of entree like prime beef ribeye with foie gras and wild mushrooms or herb-crusted spring lamb; and a choice of one of pastry chef Gale Grand’s famous desserts.
In between all these courses, you’ll also be served an amuse bouche, a selection of breads, a palate cleanser, and a cheese course. At the end, you’ll be visited by a dessert cart offering truffles and an assortment of mini pastries. All in all, the 3-course will take anywhere from 3 to 4 hours, depending on your pace.
If you want to get a little more decadent (and have the extra cash), you can opt for the 6-course $110 grand collection, or the 9-course, $145 chef’s collection. Luxury add-ons include a towering “caviar staircase”, a large terrine of foie gras, or a portion of Australian wagyu beef. The wine selection is extensive. Order by the glass or bottle (which range from $35 to well over $1000) or place your drinking fate in the hands of the sommelier, who will pair a half-glass of wine with each dish.
The food at Tru is solid. It’s expertly prepared, using high-quality ingredients, artfully arranged and beautifully presented. It’s not wildly creative and it may not be the very best meal you’ve ever had in your life, but it will be up among the top culinary experiences you’ll ever have, and the reason for that is the service. This is what makes Tru really shine.
From the moment you walk in the door, you’re made to feel as though you are the most important person in the world. Staff never seems intrusive, yet they always seem to know exactly when to appear to answer a question or whisk away an empty plate. As soon as you stand up, someone will be at your side, inquiring if they can be of assistance, or if they may show you to the restroom. They promptly remove your napkin and bring you a new one, and the moment you step back in the room, they arrive at your chair, ready to pull it out for you.
Every detail of service is attended to. Extra chairs are removed from each table, so any table can be a table for 3, or 2, or even 1, with no awkwardness. Plush velvet stools are provided for women to rest their purses on. Guests celebrating milestones receive a special treat and a personalized menu. There are simply no mistakes, no missteps.
Tru also offers a “dessert-only” dining experience: a 3-course dessert tasting (after 9pm) for $40 per person. Small plates and cocktails are available in the lounge. Drinks range from $10-$20 each and small plates range from $11-$24. Reservations are required, and it’s recommended to make them at least 6-8 weeks in advance.