Rockit - Must Hit Spot

Posted by admin on April 5th, 2007 at 09:02pm

If asked my favorite bar in Chicago, the vast majority of the time, I would answer with the simple, fake word “Rockit.” However, though their name doesn’t appear in the dictionary, nothing else about this place is faked.

By all accounts celebrities tend to hit this spot when they visit town. While that may conjure the image of asshole elitists circling around crispy white tables sitting in uncomfortable chairs staring at one another’s perfectly styled hair while odd trance music plays (but I digress), Rockit is far removed from any of these visions. This fairly dark, rustic space with heavy wood tables and booths seems more inviting for a gathering of old friends than MC Hammer hanging out with his groupies. Add in a friendly, albeit fairly ubiquitous staff and you have a very nice spot to spend an evening.

The areas where it really counts are where Rockit really stands out though. Food and drink. So what if they have a great atmosphere? If the food and drink sucks, I won’t be going back. Luckily though, this place has it all.

Great signature beverages – a first visit wouldn’t be complete without trying the Bomb Pop (raspberry and lemon vodkas, blue Curacao, lemonade and grenadine). This outstanding cocktail combines the flavor you loved as a kid with a buzz that would make any 20 year old long for a birthday. If you’re feeling daring, a Blueberry Pie (Stoli Blue, splash of blueberry puree, pineapple juice, splash of ginger syrup, splash of roses, lime shaken and strained) should be a decent departure from your average bar fare.

However, as much as I love a great cocktail, even I throw enough crap into a shaker and pour gold once in awhile. Food on the other hand takes a bit more delicate touch. The food at Rockit is outstanding. While I can’t recall a single negative comment, I have repeatedly heard praise from all directions. Whether it be directed to the standard dinner menu or the scaled down late-night version, praise for Rockit’s food runs long.

Personally, I list their Cajun Salmon with Pasta amongst my favorite meals in the city. Coming in at just $18, this dish consists of excellent salmon resting on a bed of incredible pesto pasta. The pesto sauce was fresh and tasty and the pasta a filling counterpart to the wonderful salmon. As far as late night fare, my choice has repeatedly been the Grilled Chicken Sandwich. This rather gourmet take on a standard bar food dish features pesto mayonnaise and is served on a really quality roll.

I am almost embarrassed to say that I have never tried the signature Rockit Burger but I suppose that gives me a reason to go back. It also shows just how good these other two dishes are that I keep going back to them though I am utterly intrigued by another menu item.

I recommend Rockit to visitors and locals alike. The food, drink, and atmosphere are all superb and the price is quite low for such a sought after and classy establishment.

Under $$$ - Casual Dining+ $$ - Good Eats