Monday, January 30, 2012

Chicago Wine Bars: Telegraph

Recently we checked out a new wine bar in Logan Square called Telegraph. Located directly on the northeast side of the square at 2601 N. Milwaukee Ave. it's actually easy to miss unless you're specifically looking for it. And you should definitely be looking for it! Created by the team behind The Bluebird and Webster's Wine Bar this place has the pedigree and it delivers.

The scene:
Telegraph is very cozy with a rustic modern feel. Reclaimed wood and vintage style lighting make this minimalist space look sleek. I would suggest arriving early as there are not many tables. We sat at the bar and enjoyed it over a table as we could look at all the different liquor selections and chat up the bartender to learn more about the various wines and spirits.











The wine:
Telegraph offers a good selection of reds, whites, and sparklers by the glass. You won't find your typical Napa Cab or Sonoma Pinot Noir on the list. Be prepared to discover some great wines from lesser know European regions like Sicily, Slovenia, and even the Canary Islands. Per their website Telegraph exclusively features "Small family owned European producers who craft their wines as naturally as possible." Sounds good to me. They offer a nice selection of bottles including some with a bit of age. Look for daily specials by the glass too.

Go and discover some great wine that you may have not been familiar with before. Craft beers and liquors are available in case you're with someone who's not feeling like wine.

The food:
This is what makes a good wine bar great, and keeps us coming back. The food at Telegraph is fantastic. I would actually compare it to Longman & Eagle or Bristol....yes it's that good. We started with some oysters which were on special that night. Nothing out of the ordinary but good quality fresh oysters. Our starter of roasted mushrooms was amazing. When done right mushrooms can match the taste and complexity of the best cuts of meat. The chef nailed it here. Next up was a fantastic filet of grilled Rockfish. Sweet and savory at the same time this would make anyone who always orders beef at a restaurant change their tune. Chef John Anderes really knocks it out of the park.

Vine Times Chicago highly recommends Telegraph, check it out and learn about some new old world wines.

Telegraph
2601 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Chicago, IL 60647
773-292-9463
www.telegraphchicago.com