WHISK Review - Noble Square - Chicago - The Infatuation

"Ron Swanson is our spirit animal. Not so much when it comes to the use of tools or the great outdoors, but we heed Ron’s advice when he says things like, “When I eat, it is the food that is scared,” and “There will be alcohol there, so I will go as well.” We’ve got a feeling Whisk feels the same way about Ron’s life lessons, mainly because the entranceway is a shrine full of Ron Swanson art. By day, Whisk is a seven days a week neighborhood breakfast and brunch spot in West Town that also happens to be BYOB. They’re serving the usual brunch favorites plus dishes with a Mexican twist. And let’s be real, Mexican inspired brunch might as well be American classics these days, because who doesn’t love chilaquiles and huevos rancheros. There’s a ridiculous selection of sweet stuff, including Snicker’s-stuffed french toast and espresso-infused mocha pancakes, but those are usually best for sharing or as an extra dish for only a couple bites. At 5pm, Whisk switches over to their dinner menu, which is mostly burgers, plus a couple of breakfast items and alternative sandwiches. The music and art on the walls help maintain the casual feel, so you can pop in any day of the week for an easy bite. But the fact it’s also BYOB means Whisk is a place where you can rally the crew together at night. Not that Whisk is new, but it often gets overlooked in the big BYOB discussions amongst friends. And with the abundance of sushi and thai places that let you bring your own booze, a burger spot that’s also BYOB is a great change of pace. One thing is for sure - we know Ron Swanson would approve, because his ideal night out is “grilling up a thick slab of something’s flesh.” Food Rundown Whisk Hash House braised pulled pork with sweet potatoes topped with eggs and a chipotle hollandaise sauce. Mix it all together before you take a bite. Breakfast Burrito A classic breakfast burrito with scrambled eggs, guac, chorizo, queso fresco, and sour cream, plus sides of chipotle salsa and house potatoes. The Old Timer Burger Burger patty with cheddar cheese, bacon, and a fried egg. Simple and good. If you want to be not so simple, get it “breakfast style,” which is pretty ridiculous and substitutes two pieces of french toast used as a bun. The Ron Swanson Burger Eight ounce burger patty wrapped in a pound of bacon and topped with bacon-mayo. Eat at your own heart failure risk. Smoked Turkey Sandwich If you’re at Whisk for dinner with your friends and a burger is too much, opt for this quality smoked turkey breast sandwich with gouda cheese, bacon, avocado, spinach, tomato, and chipotle mayo on grilled panini bread. Ron Swanson Dedicated Entrance Way" - Sam Faye