Brunch is arguably the best meal of the weekends, and my selection criteria for the perfect brunch spot is pretty particular when it comes to that Sunday afternoon feast.
The restaurant must have good food, an extensive menu with a nice selection of breakfast and lunch items, and great cocktails. The vibe must be appealing, and of course, cost is always a factor. Aside from New York City, Chicago has some of the best hidden gems for brunch when it comes to major cities. I found one such gem -- maybe not as hidden as most -- in the South Loop.
Cuatro Cocina Nuevo Latino has it all when it comes to my stated criteria. Their Bossa Novo Brunch is delectable. The food was bangin’, the cocktails were slammin’, and the vibe was on point. In a nutshell, I liked it a lot.
Executive Chef Edie Jimenez’ menu consists of soulful flavors of Latin America, Caribbean and Mexican cuisine. Brunch standouts include the Tropical Pancakes, Chilaquiles, and Pan Frances (thick french toast with vanilla roasted sweet plaintains and farmers cheese). Cuatro’s 10 Cane rum cocktails were a perfect complement to my meal. Great music adds to any brunch vibe, and Cuatro takes care of that with the lively Brazilian sounds of Bossa Tres, who perform from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Cuatro's brunch is served Sundays from 10 am - 3 pm. Dinner is served Monday - Saturday 5:30 pm - 10:00 pm and Sundays 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm.
Cuatro is located at 2030 South Wabash Ave. (312) 842-8856. Log on to www.cuatro-chicago.com for more information.
