Just celebrated my wife's birthday. Food was fantastic. Some people in our party don't eat meat. The chef made up a vegetarian soup they said was great. The chef made a birthday cake that was wonderful. Great experience. Will definitely go back.
Daniela Salas
The food is AMAZING. Hidden gem in Evanston. Would go back 100%!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Joseph A.
Today was second time visiting Alcove. My fiance and I love this place. The atmosphere and service is outstanding. Food is out of this world. All the food we have ordered has been "wow". We compare meals from Alcove with other restaurants we visit. The staff makes you feel so special when you are there. It is truly a gem of a restaurant. The staff is truly well versed in the choice of wines you like. Today I ordered oven roasted branzino filet and my fiancé ordered cod. Just wow. For appetizers we had roasted beet salad and their soup of the day (potato onion soup). Best food I've ever had. For desert we had the warm flourless chocolate cake and butterscotch and honey crisp apple bread pudding. Just amazing. It goes without saying Alcove is our favorite restaurant ever.
Arlynn Krauss
Everything very nice. Food impeccable. Service not personal and formal. Service much much better at Steakhouses I've been to. No welcome. No name. Just 'can I get you a drink'. Strange. So that was disappointing. Service should be impeccable as well.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 3
Live4food
Wow. Everything was done beautifully and with style. The Swordfish dinner was one of the best fish dinners I've had in years. Do NOT miss the desserts. Warm dark chocolate flourless cake was incredible.
Caitlin T.
In pursuit of culinary exploration across the United States, I have frequented numerous fine-dining establishments to sample the diverse gastronomic offerings of the nation. Drawing upon my background as a former restaurant manager and chef, I meticulously select venues based on culinary acclaim and reputation. Thus, it was my discerning choice to celebrate my 40th birthday at this particular establishment. Regrettably, upon arrival, my guest and I encountered a disconcerting lack of hospitality and professionalism. Initially, we endured a protracted 25-minute wait without acknowledgment from our assigned server. Subsequently, when attended to, the interaction was marred by discourtesy, exemplified by inappropriate addressing and an absence of customary pleasantries. Notably, the delay in beverage service, compounded by inadequate communication regarding its cause, further exacerbated our dissatisfaction. Moreover, the subsequent lapse in delivering our cocktails, attributed to ingredient unavailability, resulted in chilled appetizers and a conspicuous disregard for our dining experience. Despite our efforts to seek clarification, the lack of acknowledgment or rectification from the assigned server was conspicuous and disappointing. As a seasoned professional adhering to the industry-standard '10-minute greet rule', such oversights are markedly below acceptable standards. Admittedly, the culinary offerings, particularly the entrees, salvaged the dining experience, showcasing seasonal variety and culinary finesse. However, the prolonged wait for dessert, lasting an additional 20 minutes despite the restaurant's diminished patronage, underscored systemic service deficiencies. While appreciative of the gesture to comp our beverages and birthday dessert, it is disconcerting that such remedial measures were necessitated by subpar service rather than proactive attentiveness. A sincere apology from the server or the front-of-house manager would have been a more fitting acknowledgment of the shortcomings encountered. In summary, while the cuisine itself was commendable, the overall dining experience was marred by lapses in service and professionalism. In particular, the casual and insensitive terminology employed by the server reflects poorly on the establishment's commitment to excellence. As discerning patrons, such shortcomings prompt reflection on the suitability of the staffing choices and the alignment with the establishment's purported standards of hospitality and refinement.
LeslieM
We went on a Saturday night. We got to our table a little early and were seated, but no one came to our table for 20 minutes. I flagged someone down and she said she would wait on us. Basically we were there for almost 30 minutes before we got a drink. The restaurant was crowded but not full. They were obviously short staffed. The food was outstanding. Once we ordered, our appetizers and dinner came on a timely basis. Our server was lovely and apologetic about the initial wait to get to us. The decor is nice enough and it isn't loud, which is a nice change from so many other restaurants. I would give it 5 stars for the food, but only 3 stars overall because of the huge time up front that no one came to our table.
Cmtyrre
In pursuit of culinary exploration across the United States, I have frequented numerous fine-dining establishments to sample the diverse gastronomic offerings of the nation. Drawing upon my background as a former restaurant manager and chef, I meticulously select venues based on culinary acclaim and reputation. Thus, it was my discerning choice to celebrate my 40th birthday at this particular establishment. Regrettably, upon arrival, my guest and I encountered a disconcerting lack of hospitality and professionalism. Initially, we endured a protracted 25-minute wait without acknowledgment from our assigned server. Subsequently, when attended to, the interaction was marred by discourtesy, exemplified by inappropriate addressing and an absence of customary pleasantries. Notably, the delay in beverage service, compounded by inadequate communication regarding its cause, further exacerbated our dissatisfaction. Moreover, the subsequent lapse in delivering our cocktails, attributed to ingredient unavailability, resulted in chilled appetizers and a conspicuous disregard for our dining experience. Despite our efforts to seek clarification, the lack of acknowledgment or rectification from the assigned server was conspicuous and disappointing. As a seasoned professional adhering to the industry-standard '10-minute greet rule', such oversights are markedly below acceptable standards. Admittedly, the culinary offerings, particularly the entrees, salvaged the dining experience, showcasing seasonal variety and culinary finesse. However, the prolonged wait for dessert, lasting an additional 20 minutes despite the restaurant's diminished patronage, underscored systemic service deficiencies. While appreciative of the gesture to comp our beverages and birthday dessert, it is disconcerting that such remedial measures were necessitated by sub par service rather than proactive attentiveness. A sincere apology from the server or the front-of-house manager would have been more fitting!!!
paul j.
We've recently dined at the Alcove two times. Both were great dining experiences. It is a beautiful room with low lighting and no TVs or loud music. The food is absolutely excellent. Everyone ordered something different and each dish was really special. The staff there is super attentive and polite. You can't find any restaurants like this anymore that are quiet, elegant places to have a conversation amongst friends. Will be back often.
4.5 stars overall. Ate here for an anniversary dinner and husband and I enjoyed our experience! - ambiance: it was nice and surprisingly quiet considering its under a train - service: staff were so kind. Service was pretty fast and efficient. - food: for appetizer we had the pan seared foie gras. While it was delicious, we did find the portion size small, especially if we compare to other restaurants that serve foie gras in a similar price point. I had the duck breast and my husband had the lamb and both were delicious! Flavors were there, it was cooked in medium rare, and even the side vegetables were good. For dessert we had the goat cheesecake and it was a surprise hit for us.
Lovely little gem tucked away under the train station. Excellent food with friendly, professional service. Nice to find a place that worked for having a nice dinner out that you can dress up for
S H
Warm, delightful and delicious! This is our favorite spot in Evanston for a delicious and interesting meal. The ambience is romantic and cozy, like a French bistro, with attentive and helpful staff.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Pan Seared Veal Sweetbreads, Tart
Carlos Manuel
It was the WORST experience I have ever had in a restaurant.Once the hosted walked my girlfriend and I to the table, we didn't even were glad by any server in the first 20 minutes. It was a disaster 5-course dinner option, and for us, in order to get the food, we had to wait around 1 HOUR for each of the first 3 courses (3 HOURS in total) and by the way we had to remind our waitress that they have just skipped one of the courses, absolutely awful.The food was good but it was cold once it arrived at our table. At that point, I didn't even care. After all they made us wait, I just wanted to eat.If you want to waste your money and have a nightmare dinner, this is the place you must go.
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 2
Service: 1
PapaJohnny
On a Thursday night: The food was outstanding! The "Old fashion" was average (a lot of crushed ice instead of one large piece). No music. On the check the tip suggestions start with 18% and go all the way to 30% and applied on the after tax and 3% Credit Card surcharge total. Really?
CarlosRZ
It was the WORST experience I have ever had in a restaurant. Once the hosted walked my girlfriend and I to the table, we didn't even were glad by any server in the first 20 minutes. It was a disaster 5-course dinner option, and for us, in order to get the food, we had to wait around 1 HOUR for each of the first 3 courses (3 HOURS in total) and by the way we had to remind our waitress that they have just skipped one of the courses, absolutely awful. The food was good but it was cold once it arrived at our table. At that point, I didn't even care. After all they made us wait, I just wanted to eat. If you want to waste your money and have a nightmare dinner, this is the place you must go.
Just celebrated my wife's birthday. Food was fantastic. Some people in our party don't eat meat. The chef made up a vegetarian soup they said was great. The chef made a birthday cake that was wonderful. Great experience. Will definitely go back.
The food is AMAZING. Hidden gem in Evanston. Would go back 100%!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Today was second time visiting Alcove. My fiance and I love this place. The atmosphere and service is outstanding. Food is out of this world. All the food we have ordered has been "wow". We compare meals from Alcove with other restaurants we visit. The staff makes you feel so special when you are there. It is truly a gem of a restaurant. The staff is truly well versed in the choice of wines you like. Today I ordered oven roasted branzino filet and my fiancé ordered cod. Just wow. For appetizers we had roasted beet salad and their soup of the day (potato onion soup). Best food I've ever had. For desert we had the warm flourless chocolate cake and butterscotch and honey crisp apple bread pudding. Just amazing. It goes without saying Alcove is our favorite restaurant ever.
Everything very nice. Food impeccable. Service not personal and formal. Service much much better at Steakhouses I've been to. No welcome. No name. Just 'can I get you a drink'. Strange. So that was disappointing. Service should be impeccable as well.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 3
Wow. Everything was done beautifully and with style. The Swordfish dinner was one of the best fish dinners I've had in years. Do NOT miss the desserts. Warm dark chocolate flourless cake was incredible.
In pursuit of culinary exploration across the United States, I have frequented numerous fine-dining establishments to sample the diverse gastronomic offerings of the nation. Drawing upon my background as a former restaurant manager and chef, I meticulously select venues based on culinary acclaim and reputation. Thus, it was my discerning choice to celebrate my 40th birthday at this particular establishment. Regrettably, upon arrival, my guest and I encountered a disconcerting lack of hospitality and professionalism. Initially, we endured a protracted 25-minute wait without acknowledgment from our assigned server. Subsequently, when attended to, the interaction was marred by discourtesy, exemplified by inappropriate addressing and an absence of customary pleasantries. Notably, the delay in beverage service, compounded by inadequate communication regarding its cause, further exacerbated our dissatisfaction. Moreover, the subsequent lapse in delivering our cocktails, attributed to ingredient unavailability, resulted in chilled appetizers and a conspicuous disregard for our dining experience. Despite our efforts to seek clarification, the lack of acknowledgment or rectification from the assigned server was conspicuous and disappointing. As a seasoned professional adhering to the industry-standard '10-minute greet rule', such oversights are markedly below acceptable standards. Admittedly, the culinary offerings, particularly the entrees, salvaged the dining experience, showcasing seasonal variety and culinary finesse. However, the prolonged wait for dessert, lasting an additional 20 minutes despite the restaurant's diminished patronage, underscored systemic service deficiencies. While appreciative of the gesture to comp our beverages and birthday dessert, it is disconcerting that such remedial measures were necessitated by subpar service rather than proactive attentiveness. A sincere apology from the server or the front-of-house manager would have been a more fitting acknowledgment of the shortcomings encountered. In summary, while the cuisine itself was commendable, the overall dining experience was marred by lapses in service and professionalism. In particular, the casual and insensitive terminology employed by the server reflects poorly on the establishment's commitment to excellence. As discerning patrons, such shortcomings prompt reflection on the suitability of the staffing choices and the alignment with the establishment's purported standards of hospitality and refinement.
We went on a Saturday night. We got to our table a little early and were seated, but no one came to our table for 20 minutes. I flagged someone down and she said she would wait on us. Basically we were there for almost 30 minutes before we got a drink. The restaurant was crowded but not full. They were obviously short staffed. The food was outstanding. Once we ordered, our appetizers and dinner came on a timely basis. Our server was lovely and apologetic about the initial wait to get to us. The decor is nice enough and it isn't loud, which is a nice change from so many other restaurants. I would give it 5 stars for the food, but only 3 stars overall because of the huge time up front that no one came to our table.
In pursuit of culinary exploration across the United States, I have frequented numerous fine-dining establishments to sample the diverse gastronomic offerings of the nation. Drawing upon my background as a former restaurant manager and chef, I meticulously select venues based on culinary acclaim and reputation. Thus, it was my discerning choice to celebrate my 40th birthday at this particular establishment. Regrettably, upon arrival, my guest and I encountered a disconcerting lack of hospitality and professionalism. Initially, we endured a protracted 25-minute wait without acknowledgment from our assigned server. Subsequently, when attended to, the interaction was marred by discourtesy, exemplified by inappropriate addressing and an absence of customary pleasantries. Notably, the delay in beverage service, compounded by inadequate communication regarding its cause, further exacerbated our dissatisfaction. Moreover, the subsequent lapse in delivering our cocktails, attributed to ingredient unavailability, resulted in chilled appetizers and a conspicuous disregard for our dining experience. Despite our efforts to seek clarification, the lack of acknowledgment or rectification from the assigned server was conspicuous and disappointing. As a seasoned professional adhering to the industry-standard '10-minute greet rule', such oversights are markedly below acceptable standards. Admittedly, the culinary offerings, particularly the entrees, salvaged the dining experience, showcasing seasonal variety and culinary finesse. However, the prolonged wait for dessert, lasting an additional 20 minutes despite the restaurant's diminished patronage, underscored systemic service deficiencies. While appreciative of the gesture to comp our beverages and birthday dessert, it is disconcerting that such remedial measures were necessitated by sub par service rather than proactive attentiveness. A sincere apology from the server or the front-of-house manager would have been more fitting!!!
We've recently dined at the Alcove two times. Both were great dining experiences. It is a beautiful room with low lighting and no TVs or loud music. The food is absolutely excellent. Everyone ordered something different and each dish was really special. The staff there is super attentive and polite. You can't find any restaurants like this anymore that are quiet, elegant places to have a conversation amongst friends. Will be back often.
4.5 stars overall. Ate here for an anniversary dinner and husband and I enjoyed our experience! - ambiance: it was nice and surprisingly quiet considering its under a train - service: staff were so kind. Service was pretty fast and efficient. - food: for appetizer we had the pan seared foie gras. While it was delicious, we did find the portion size small, especially if we compare to other restaurants that serve foie gras in a similar price point. I had the duck breast and my husband had the lamb and both were delicious! Flavors were there, it was cooked in medium rare, and even the side vegetables were good. For dessert we had the goat cheesecake and it was a surprise hit for us.
Restaurantji Recommends
Lovely little gem tucked away under the train station. Excellent food with friendly, professional service. Nice to find a place that worked for having a nice dinner out that you can dress up for
Warm, delightful and delicious! This is our favorite spot in Evanston for a delicious and interesting meal. The ambience is romantic and cozy, like a French bistro, with attentive and helpful staff.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Pan Seared Veal Sweetbreads, Tart
It was the WORST experience I have ever had in a restaurant.Once the hosted walked my girlfriend and I to the table, we didn't even were glad by any server in the first 20 minutes. It was a disaster 5-course dinner option, and for us, in order to get the food, we had to wait around 1 HOUR for each of the first 3 courses (3 HOURS in total) and by the way we had to remind our waitress that they have just skipped one of the courses, absolutely awful.The food was good but it was cold once it arrived at our table. At that point, I didn't even care. After all they made us wait, I just wanted to eat.If you want to waste your money and have a nightmare dinner, this is the place you must go.
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 2
Service: 1
On a Thursday night: The food was outstanding! The "Old fashion" was average (a lot of crushed ice instead of one large piece). No music. On the check the tip suggestions start with 18% and go all the way to 30% and applied on the after tax and 3% Credit Card surcharge total. Really?
It was the WORST experience I have ever had in a restaurant. Once the hosted walked my girlfriend and I to the table, we didn't even were glad by any server in the first 20 minutes. It was a disaster 5-course dinner option, and for us, in order to get the food, we had to wait around 1 HOUR for each of the first 3 courses (3 HOURS in total) and by the way we had to remind our waitress that they have just skipped one of the courses, absolutely awful. The food was good but it was cold once it arrived at our table. At that point, I didn't even care. After all they made us wait, I just wanted to eat. If you want to waste your money and have a nightmare dinner, this is the place you must go.