Chicago has always had a vibrant and diverse culinary culture, among which, French cuisine is one of the all-time classics. From the various French restaurants scattered across town, to the famous French market, now, the French-loving Chicagonians have another brilliant location to explore. Say Oh La La, because one of the best new French restaurants — Pomeroy, is coming to the North Shore.
Now Open!
Chicagoans can journey to France without leaving the comfort of the North Shore. Pomeroy, the newest dining destination from Ballyhoo Hospitality, opened in the charming heart of Winnetka at 844 Spruce St. Inspired by the great cafes of France, Chef Jason Paskewitz, a Jean Banchet award-winner and James Beard Foundation Award nominee, will transport guests to Paris with approachable classic French fare.
“Pomeroy is a very special restaurant,” says Ballyhoo Hospitality Co-Founder Ryan O’Donnell. “We are excited to offer the neighborhood, and Chicago alike, something fresh and memorable that feels comfortable yet transportive. Whether guests join us in the dining room, bar, sidewalk cafe or garden courtyard, there is a unique experience for every kind of occasion.”
Menu
Paskewitz designed the menu with craveable options for everyone. An entire section devoted to “…Avec Frites” will feature poulet cajun, steak a la bordelaise, burger royale, and mussels mariniere. The restaurant’s “Plats du Jour” will showcase the chef’s command of the classics, including Salmon Provençal, Filet Au Poivre, and Trout Almondine. The team will source ingredients from Midwest purveyors and the Hudson Valley.
Tucked in the back of the restaurant, an oyster bar will serve oysters shucked daily as well as chilled “Fruits De Mer” seafood platters and towers. The team will only serve the freshest seafood, as they fly selections daily from sustainable purveyors all over the country.
The menu will also feature a section dedicated to “Les Foie Gras,” allowing the technical foie wizard the chance to interpret the luxe ingredient in various ways. Chef Jason aims to utilize the entire liver to enhance flavors and ensure nothing goes to waste, beginning with three variations on foie.
The beverage program will pair perfectly with an extensive selection of French red and white wines, a section dedicated to French bubbles, and sparkling wines that match perfectly with the seafood menu. Craft cocktails are fun renditions of the French brasserie classics such as the White Lavender Negroni, French 75, Le Spritz, and more.
Design
Ryan O’Donnell designed Pomeroy himself. The interiors resemble a classic Parisian brasserie with vintage charm. Upon arrival, guests will feel welcomed instantly by way of the outdoor sidewalk patio and floor-to-ceiling operable windows. Once inside, diners are greeted by a u-shaped, 22-seat marble bar that anchors the space. Featuring patina brass, varnished mirrors, custom fabricated lighting, an antique Brillie clock from Paris, tobacco-stained painted walls, red leather booths and banquettes. The dining room will seat 154. The front sidewalk patio will seat 32, while the private courtyard in the back will accommodate an additional 100.
A major focus of Pomeroy will be events and celebrations. Available for reservations only, the restaurant will feature two private dining rooms, perfect for a wide variety of North Shore gatherings, including Le Cave, a private dining room that will hold up to 16 guests. The Jester Room, a semi-private dining room, will offer views of the courtyard patio, and gives guests access to the private raw bar.
Pomeroy marks Ballyhoo Hospitality’s sixth restaurant opening. Recently, the team has announced their third restaurant on the North Shore, Buck Russell’s Bakery & Sandwich Shop, which will open later this fall. The restaurant group has made a name for its guest-first approach to neighborhood dining throughout the Chicagoland area.
Are you looking to not just dine, but truly have a wonderful experience of elegance, delicacy, and brilliance? Or maybe you’ve run out of ideas when it comes to what to do on the weekend when you just want to get away for a little bit. Then, may we suggest you come to Pompery? Find a cozy corner and get settled in. Order a drink, enjoy your food, and perhaps bring a book to read. That sounds like a beautiful date with yourself.