A DINING DESTINATION ALONG THE FOX RIVER
Tucked next to the Fox River in downtown Yorkville, this quaint delectable restaurant of such caliber will keep you wanting more. Owner and Chef, Kate McNamara started the catering company Ginger and Soul in 2016. With such success the natural next step was to open a dining experience like no other in the area. The combination of the eclectic American fusion menu, ingredients sourced from Kate’s garden, local farms and businesses and the cozy atmosphere makes this a destination dining experience.
We were greeted by our server, Kim Kolkmeyer, who was friendly and attentive. We found a seat by the fireplace and enjoyed the picturesque view of the Fox River. Even though the space is cozy the tables have ample room to relax. Kim recommended a Blackberry Mojito Mocktail that was bursting with berry flavor and an Old Fashioned. We started with the baked Brie that was accompanied with prosciutto wrapped pears, and candied pecans that had an interesting hint of cherry.
Next, we shared an Autumn Salad that was a nice balance of market greens, goat cheese, julienne apples, roasted beets and tossed with a light maple tahini dressing. The warm rolls that came to the table were delicious and the plate was adorned with cinnamon butter flowers. Just when we thought the food couldn’t get any better our entrees arrived. Chefs Kate McNamara, Craig Kierelko, and Jake Merz know their way around the kitchen. Customer Renee Larque recommended her favorite dish the Beef Short Ribs beside creamy polenta with a coriander chutney. The Lobster Roll is simply one of the best we have ever had. A fresh baked roll topped with butter poached lobster. Another favorite combination is the Turkey Gouda on a pretzel bun topped with honey mustard and green apple. The homemade pickles also pack a punch of flavor. A fun find on the menu is the Bibimbap bowl which consists of rice, smoked pork, pickled carrots, roasted zucchini, mushrooms topped with a fried egg, cucumber wasabi dressing and furikake sprinkles. A light dish that layers the flavor.
Our final course was a sweet ending to a delightful meal. A comforting Oatmeal Cream Pie and a slice of Concord Grape Pie were just what we needed to end the evening. Definitely a great find!
Ginger & Soul 131 East Hydraulic Street, Yorkville • (630)440-4017 www.gingerandsoulrestaurant.com Chef/Owner: Kate McNamara Manager: Andrea Hasko-Marx
ABOUT THE CRITICS Stephanie (right) & 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. Invite them to your eatery at editorial@glancermagazine.com.
