PORTAGE PARK — Five years ago, Northwest Side foodies had no choice but to schlep all the way Downtown to get a decent meal.
But that all changed when restaurateur Quay Tao opened the Portage Restaurant at 3938 N. Central Ave. in 2010, offering an eclectic menu in a rehabbed former bar that brought new life to Portage Park's culinary scene.
As part of the celebration of the restaurant's anniversary, Chef Joey Beato will prepare an exclusive five-course prix fixe dinner Tuesday and Wednesday filled with signature items from over the years.
Two seatings will take place at 6 and 8 p.m. Dishes include bacon-wrapped dates, roasted red beet salad, candied beef short rib, buttermilk Amish fried chicken, and chocolate pretzel bread pudding. The cost is $55, and includes cocktail pairings from mixologist Kaitlin Carrow.
But diners can leave the traditional fifth anniversary gift of wood at home — the bar has it covered.
Weeklong drink specials will include $5 oak-aged libations, including a house-made oak-aged negroni, select red and white wines and a barrel-aged beer.
In addition to food and drink specials, The Portage will hold two raffles at 5:55 p.m. on June 19 and June 20 for prizes from The Portage, Community Tavern, and other local businesses.
For more information, call 773-853-0779 or go to theportagechicago.com.
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