April 2016 - PREPARED WITH PASSION Since it opened in late July 2015, The Finery and Blacksmith Bar has been receiving rave reviews as a notable culinary institution. This new, come as you are, fine dining restaurant in Saint Charles has built up such a reputation we decided to see what it was all about.
Characterized as refined New American flare with a global influence, The Finery & Blacksmith Bar does not disappoint. This unpretentious but polished restaurant is the result of Co-Owners/Chefs David and Juliette Reyes. Both are classically trained in French cuisine with international credentials. Juliette has worked in Chicago restaurants such at Spiaggia; whereas, David worked in France for a 2 star Michelin rated restaurant. His Italian, Spanish and Mexican heritage along with both of their years of experience and passion for food combine to make a creative flavorful menu. Upscale yet casual, the building was once home to the areas first blacksmith shop. The exposed brick walls and wood beams give an intimate rustic mix, welcoming you to an exceptional dining experience. Beginning with prompt attentive service, under the eye of assistant manager John Chandler, the menu cumulates into something that only can be described by Chef Reyes, “I want to cook like I did with my family growing up. Hand picking the food and preparing it with passion.”
Brunch is served from 11:00-3:00 Sunday and Saturday. The creative menu is a selection of the finest ingredients locally sourced. The combination of these bold flavors and exceptional ingredients gives this farm to table some flair.
The creative and delicious menu contains items such as:
• Crème brulee French toast – with pear compote & topped with custard • Biscuits and pork belly – homemade biscuit with melt-in-your-mouth thick crispy pork belly topped with a creamy gravy • Egg and Tortilla Stack – layers of tortillas stacked with in-house smoked pork shoulder, avocado, and salsa Verde that Juliette shared with us is made by David’s mom, topped with an egg • Potato Pancakes with squash - stack of potato pancakes served over diced squash sauce • Banana Walnut French toast – thick toast topped with bananas & walnuts • Tres leches Pancakes – pancakes topped with a coconut caramel sauce
Not only is the food exceptional, but so is the drink menu with artisan cocktails, eclectic wine selection, Midwestern brews, and amazing signature bloody mars.
From the ambiance, top notch service, decadent food, and amazing drinks, we were so thoroughly impressed we had to return the very next Sunday!
The Finery & Blacksmith Bar 305 W. Main St, Saint Charles (630) 940-2380 • www.thefineryrestaurant.com Co-Owners/Chefs: David & Juliette Reyes
ABOUT THE WRITERS Stephanie & Tiffany (left) Schmoker are west suburban sisters who have always shared a love for dining out and they also enjoy cooking together. They came from a family of 7 and grew up on farm with fresh fruits, veggies and more. Watch for their review of a different west suburban restaurant in each issue of Glancer Magazine.
