Why We Love El Che
About-
El Che Bar is located in Chicago’s restaurant-centric neighborhood of the West Loop. Chef John Manion of opened the doors to his newest concept last November. While La Sirena is inspired by Manion’s childhood in Brazil, El Che pays homage to Chefs travels in Argentina.
At El Che, the guest will be witness to Manion’s love of outdoor cooking, which is customary in South America. How might you ask, does one salute outdoor cooking in an indoor space? Well, with a wood-fire hearth of course. The hearth itself is a showstopper. Flames roar from the open grill, emanating a heat so intense it can be felt at nearby tables. If you’re lucky enough to be seated near the hearth, you will notice hand-cranked elevators that are used to position food at precisely the right level for optimal cooking. Impressively the cooks seem unfazed, working in a dance like motion around the open kitchen. The 100-seat dining space also includes a well-appointed bar where one can enjoy a refreshing “GINTONIC” without missing out on the action. All and all if you’re looking for a fun and vibrant meal El Che is the place to be.
The Experience-
One of the things that makes the West Loop special is the integration of old and new. Typical to the neighborhood we often find new restaurants in the remains of historical relics. It is a way for the Chefs of today to pay respect to the city of the yesterday.
El Che is housed in the old Checker Taxi building. The teal tile exterior remains untouched, bringing a true uniqueness to the restaurant. The interior is open, making the space feel expansive yet communal.
Dissimilar to La Sirena there is a touch more elegance to the room. Clean lines, modern seating and simple light fixtures give the restaurant a more elevated feel. While the space may feel a bit fancier, there is not an ounce of pretentiousness at El Che. The staff is friendly and laid back. Embracing each and every patron as if they were a guest in their own home. This itself is the truest embodiment of South American culture.
The Food-
Don’t be overwhelmed when dining at El Che. While Chef Manion is deeply inspired by Argentinian cuisine, nothing on the menu is unidentifiable. Mostly, the dishes are a fusion of the South American country, and Midwestern fare. Yes, you will see chorizo and churrasco on the menu, but you will also find beets, sweetbreads and pork chops. Plain and simple, there is something for everyone to enjoy at El Che.
Must Try-
Roasted beets, marinated feta, cilantro, citrus, sunflower seed and pepita granola
Crab salad, hearts of palm, avocado puree, piquillo thousand island, charred little gem
Grilled Delaware oysters, celery root cream, creole remoulade slaw, fried leeks
Chimichurri focaccia, mascarpone green olive goat butter
Veal sweetbreads, market escabeche, cauliflower puree
Head-on prawns, pepita puree, ginger tomatillio relish, sesame, black lime
Spiced quail, jalapeno and coriander salsa verde, saffron cous cous, dried apricots, pomegranate seeds
(Reside with us: 945 W. Fulton Market)
