Theory Chicago

We had a few friends staying with us for New Years Eve which gave us a good excuse to try out a new restaurant, Theory. Theory markets itself as "home away from home." I don't know if I would totally agree with this description. Aesthetically, the upscale sports bar is beautiful. It's small and intimate, lending a nice ambiance upon arrival. However, one of the first things we all commented on was the fact that the bar stools were really uncomfortable. They didn't seem big enough for my 5'3" frame, so the three guys I was with definitely were feeling it. There were plasma TVs every where you looked, so that was a plus. For a sports bar, the menu is pretty upscale, offering everything you'd expect from a sports bar (wings, nachos, sliders, etc) but with a unique gourmet twist. I tried the following:

Better Than Buffalo (wings tossed in homemade hot sauce) - I'm basically obsessed with wings, but not these in particular. I give Theory props for coming up with their own buffalo sauce, but it wasn't really buffalo sauce. It was more sweet/tangy than spicy, but it was still good. If you order these, I'd ask for them well done. I like my wings really crispy and these were not. The blue cheese dressing was delicious - perhaps the best I've ever had. I hid the container of dressing behind my drink so I could dip my super fancy sliders in it. $12 for double order.

Lightweight Tagliata (grain mustard marinated, grilled and sliced NY strip steak served on toasted rosemary ciabatta rolls with caramelized shallots and horseradish cream) - So these were Theory's version of sliders and boy did these exceed my expectations. DELICIOUS. The steak was unbelievably tender and so flavorful. The ciabatta rolls were pillowy soft and fresh out of the oven. The steak was so perfect, I almost think the caramelized shallots were an unnecessary addition. Regardless, these were awesome. They came with a side of homemade sweet potato and regular potato chips. This was an impressive portion for an appetizer. For $9 I'd totally order this again.

Pulled (18 hour cherry and apple wood-smoked pork on a toasted soft roll with a side of their house BBQ sauce) - This was ordered because of the waitress' enthusiastic suggestion. When I think of pulled pork, I think of moist pork that has been tossed in BBQ sauce. This pork came dry with the sauce on the side (as noted in the description) but I think it would have been better pre dressed. I'm only saying that because the pork seemed a bit dry. The pork was very high quality and was served piled high on the roll. The sides were just ok. The coleslaw was fresh and tasty, but the fries were terrible. Fries are almost more important to me then the sandwich itself so I was pretty disappointed in these. They seemed to be fresh cut, but totally under cooked. They were flavorless, stale, and dry. For $14 I was expecting a little more oomph.

Overall, the menu was pretty good. It was limited to appetizers, soups, and sandwiches which I think was a smart move for Theory. They chose a few options and execute well, besides a couple hiccups. I enjoyed my experience, but I believe the restaurant is marketing to older clientele. On that note, I don't believe I will attend Theory for any upcoming games. I think I'll stick to the more casual hole in the wall located directly next door, Mother Hubbards. There is something to be said for Golden Tee during half time and the acceptance of screaming at the TV. Just my thoughts anyway.

http://www.theorychicago.com/