I have been at Brasserie Ruhlmann 4 times. My experience the first three times was great food and horrible service. The front room isill managed and suffers from some of the issues as Japonais..... inexperienced hosting staff, lack oforganization,and a poortly trained wait staff. But the food was fantastic so I came back. the reason to go was the food. Last night was my forth visit. I got the same poor service but this time the food was terrible. after we were seated, I asked for some recommendations from the wine list for "by the glass". I was was familiar with some of the wines on it and know some were outstanding in the $14 dollar range. This was a test of the waiter. His two recommendations were the two highest priced wines on the menu and they weren't the best wines listed. We ordered Frisee Salads which were delectable. I had these several times and these are outstanding. we also ordered the Skate, a Strip, Pommes Frites, and Gratinee noodles. The skate was excellent, but the Steak and Pommes Frites were warm. I had ordered the Pommes Frites every time and this was my first disappointment. We couldn't get the servers attention to resolve it, so we ate and went on. For dessert we hadthe Chocolate moose, which was average, and an expresso and a coffee. the coffee was only warm, being a decaf, the coffee was probably sitting around. Again, we coundn't get anyone's attention to change it. when someone did stop by to ask, we just didn't feel like getting "it". and why should you at what should be expected for this caliber restaurant. My recommendation is do not go to Brasserie Ruhmlmann, if you get bad service and great food that's one thing. but when you get bad service and bad food, forget it. Chicago's a great restaurant town and there are too many great options to waste your money on this type of experience.
Pros: beautiful dining room
Cons: poor service and inconsistent food
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