The Coach House by Wazwan — Restaurant Review | Condé Nast Traveler
"What were your first impressions when you arrived? Head to Wicker Park for two dining experiences from James Beard Award-nominated chef Zubair Mohajir—Wazwan, for Southeast Asian-inspired street food, and The Coach House, for those same flavors in tasting menu form. It’s here, in a historic coach house outfitted with urban art and just 22 seats, that Mohajir serves multi-course menus exploring his ancestry and the culinary traditions rooted in South India’s spice roads. What’s the crowd like? You’ll see an array of diners here, including those on dates, with friends, and with family—all looking for a fun evening out with some highly acclaimed fare. What should we be drinking? Award-winning bartender David Mor curates a wine and cocktail pairing to accompany the menus—otherwise, the restaurant is temporarily BYOB and welcomes guests to bring their own wine, beer, or spirits. The team also serves non-alcoholic cocktails. Main event: the food. Give us the lowdown—especially what not to miss. Visit on different nights of the week for different experiences—on Friday and Saturday for the team’s signature, seasonally rotating 8-course menu, and on Wednesday and Thursday for their Millenia Menu, a five-course offering inspired by ancient recipes, met here with Southeast Asian influences. Regardless of the day, you’re in for bold flavors, elegant execution, and warm hospitality throughout. Do snag a seat at the chef’s counter—it makes the night (already accompanied by lively groups and hip-hop sounds) all the more fun. And how did the front-of-house folks treat you? The chefs and servers here are passionate about their work, and they’re glad to welcome guests near and far to be part of the experience. You may very well learn a culinary thing or two here, and swap some stories along the way. What’s the real-real on why we’re coming here? Come here for a different kind of date night, or to kick back with friends over a sophisticated meal in laid-back, hip environs." - Nicole Schnitzler
