Brûlée is a brunch restaurant in Chicago, gaining popularity through its Southern-inspired cuisine. Chef Emani Roberts, alongside her mother and general manager Shronda Dunn, launched the establishment last November in the South Loop. Within months, executive chef Nia Nunn joined this Black women-owned business.
Recently, Brûlée earned the Readers’ Choice Award for New Restaurant of the Year, showcasing its culinary prowess. Their main attraction, the fried catfish and grits, features golden fillets atop smoked Gouda grits with a Cajun crawfish cream sauce. This dish, described by Roberts as ‘luxury elevated brunch,’ is celebrated for its precise execution and transformative flavors.
The Virgil Special has captivated patrons with options of fried catfish or wings, accompanied by collard greens and candied yams. Roberts attributes these recipes to her grandmother and mentor, Virgil Harper, an Atlanta chef renowned for American Southern brunch venues.
Roberts said, ‘It’s almost like you have Thanksgiving in one dish.’ She imparted candied yam expertise to Harper while learning greens preparations from him, resulting in a culturally rich exchange.
The Virgil Special, originally coated in hot honey sauce, now presents sauce on the side to cater to diverse preferences. Another standout, the lobster and sweet potato waffle dish, transforms candied yams into Belgian waffles, enriched with cinnamon streusel, vanilla cream, and caramel sauce, topped with fried lobster.
Although Brûlée French toast reflects crème brûlée flavors with cinnamon, vanilla, and caramel, the caramelization aspect was omitted due to guest feedback labeling it as ‘burnt.’ Adjustments were made to align with patron expectations.
Despite Brûlée not prioritizing desserts, their breakfast offerings include French toast, pancakes, and croissant beignets, satisfying sweet cravings.
The avocado Croast, a croissant toast, combines Calabrian chile, avocado spread, red onions, and roasted tomatoes. Additional options include egg or smoked salmon. While robust with promise, chile paste overpowered the dish.
A caramel Bru’latte distinctively lacked espresso presence. Yet, The Blossom, an intriguing cherry lemon drop beverage, offered refreshing qualities, recommended by perceptive server Amber Hayes.
Praise extends to Brûlée’s staff and their adept service, even amidst a bustling fundraising concert following a break-in. Elegant atmosphere is achieved with floor-length windows casting flattering light across diners.
Address: 2036 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago
Phone: 312-763-3147
Website: bruleechicago.com
Hours: Thursday to Tuesday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Prices: Fried catfish and grits ($27), The Virgil Special ($28), Lobster with sweet potato waffle ($42), Avocado Croast ($17), Le Brûlée banana espresso martini ($18), The Blossom drink ($14)
Sound: Loud during peak times (82 to 90 dB)
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible with restrooms on one level