Father’s Day is just around the corner. And while we’ve gotten more pitches for grills, ties, and toolboxes we can shake a wrench at, we like to think of our pops as more Don Draper than Ward Cleaver. So, this Sunday, we’re eschewing the backyard barbeque and heading to the most debonair restaurant in town: the Tortoise Club.
Modeled after an old-fashioned supper club, the swank spot is all dim lighting, cushy leather booths, and cozy oriental rugs. Add a live pianist and the most beautifully coiffed cocktail servers we’ve ever seen —these ladies sport red lipstick, pearls, and cute black dresses — and Dad will be in retro heaven.
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When it comes to the menu of classic American fare, we’re pretty helpless at choosing our favorites. (Seriously, everything is divine.) Luckily, owner Keene Addington, a daddy himself, came to our rescue. “If the weather remains unseasonably cool, I would order the signature Pheasant Pie," says Addington. "It’s so delicious and manly. If somehow the weather were normal June temperatures, I’d start with a cup of Pea Soup followed by the Wild Alaskan Halibut served with Chef Gray’s fresh peas. I love peas, particularly when they are in season and fresh. Either way I’d follow it up with the warm chocolate brownie and homemade Madagascar vanilla ice cream.” [Ed’s note: If the man insists, so be it! Brownies on Sunday are mandatory.]
So, if you haven't made plans to celebrate the number-one man in your life, well, now you do. The brownies are calling your name!
Tortoise Club, 350 North State Street (at Kinzie Street); 312-755-1700.
Photo: Courtesy of Tortoise Club