Snowy outside–but ‘festive’ at Nuevo Depot
February 26, 2008
My wife, Sheryl and I had the opportunity and extreme pleasure of being invited to a “Tasting” of some proposed menu items for Rob and Ann Garrison’s new restaurant, Depot Nuevo. Sure it was February in Chicago with wind-chill outside and snow on the ground. Inside, however, was warm and festive. The tables were set with samples of new, colorful dishes consistent with the “Latin-Fusion” theme and complimented the impressive new logo of Depot Nuevo. Background Latin music and a couple of outstanding Margaritas eliminated any feel of winter. I closed my eyes for a moment and imagined myself on the deck of the restaurant this summer, without my parka.
My taste buds were primed with anticipation of what Executive Chef, Alvaro Chavez had created for us to experience. We started with a sampling of 2 different appetizers. A wonderful guacamole with homemade chips. Amazingly, these chips were prepared with canola oil. (I had to ask as they tasted too good and I couldn’t believe that they were made with a heart healthy oil). The second appetizer was shrimps with chorizo. Wow……the only disappointing thing about the shrimp dish was that it wasn’t my entire dinner! Awesome!
The two entrees we got to try were a marinated breast of chicken with pico di gallo and a barbecued salmon. Again, two winner dishes. The only problem would be trying to decide which one to order! The chicken was very flavorful and prepared perfectly. The salmon was outstanding which was not surprising since the Garrison’s restaurants always serve outstanding fresh fish dishes.
Two different wines were paired with the entrees. Both were very well matched and obviously thought was given to the choices presented.
The dessert presented was a Mexican Chocolate Cake with cinnamon ice cream. This is now one of my all time new favorites! I want more!!!!!!!.
We all got to critically grade and critique everything we experienced. Hopefully our feedback will help with the menu preparation for the Depot Nuevo. Personally…..I can’t wait for the opening to see what surprises are in store for us from the Garrisons and Chef Chavez.
Leo Morton
February 29th, 2008 at 2:40 pm
Leo,
Thanks for the attending the tasting and for all the great feedback. Your critiques will definitely help us formulate our menu!
Joanne Cascone
Business Office Manager
March 11th, 2008 at 9:55 pm
WAY TO GO, ROB & ANN!!!!!!! (and everyone else there!!!)
alice
March 20th, 2008 at 3:22 pm
Rob & Ann,
Depot Nuevo must be the most highly anticipated restaurant in Wilmette’s history! Your track record of wonderful food and service at affordable prices coupled with a historic village building should produce a big winner.
Good luck!
David and I eagerly await the opening.
Barb Silverman
May 27th, 2008 at 8:35 pm
I was riding my bike by DN on Memorial Day and noticed the little sign that said “open”. I road home and remarked to Jennifer that we should drop in on Ann & Rob.
Well, tonight we did. And, we are so very happy that we did.
Of course, the welcome was warm (goes without saying), the decor was bright and the atmosphere was a buzz.
After our cordial and lovely hosts directed us to our seats, our server was there to answer any questions and bring us libations.
The margarita’s are spectacular and being a snob about those drinks, I do not offer that assessment lightly.
The drinks were followed by a devine vegetarian sope and guacamole.
Our entries were the surf and turf, which our son, Zak (10) commented was great, the taco plate, the red trout, and the shrimp and veg skewers. Everyone came away delighted and ready for more.
We will be at DN many meals to come!
DN has been nighly anticipated and the early results indicate that the wait was worth it.
Great work Ann and Rob!
We’ll see you soon.
Best,
John