Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria ChicagoSophisticated DiningBeginning with our drive into the complex, entry into the hotel, as well as our entire experience within the Balsan. We were treated with care and appreciation. The food and the experience was delightful to share with my Mother. The Balsan also gave each of us a gift certificate for a spa experience in the hotel. What an added bonus to an awesome experience.5/12/2013 12:00:00 AMElegant, Comfortable and DeliciousHusband and teenage son brought me here for a surprise Mother's Day brunch. It was lovely. Elegant, comfortable seating with a scenic view. Tasty, interesting and fussy offerings (in a good way) such as rich creamy custard with salmon roe served in egg cups, oyster shooters with caviar in cucumber water glasses, tiny delectable Parisian style pastries, impeccable charcuterie boards, top notch carvery. Deep cocktail and wine list. And not too crowded - part of what you pay for is space, spaciousness and not having to wait in lines. Top it off with friendly and efficient service and it's a genuine treat.5/12/2013 12:00:00 AMBalsan at the WaldorfThe staff was very friendly and polite - the bartender introduced himself and shook my hand. Some people have found this place to be arrogant and stuffy, but I have to wonder if they were acting like tourists or gawking over things. The food was good and well prepared. I think the restaurant's strongest point are the cheese and meat appetizers and the dessert. Entrees are good but overpriced.5/11/2013 12:00:00 AMFAB, FAB, FABBalsan, was one of our best dining experiences in recent memory. The food was divine and delicious, drinks were incredible, and our server, Amy Mundwiler, was impeccable. We loved everything about this restaurant. We WILL be back. Richie Slaughter4/30/2013 12:00:00 AMCame here on a Groupon dinnerCame here on a Groupon dinner for 2... absolutely outstanding. Best Salmon I've had in years, and the burger my wife got was fantastic. The meat and cheese pairing was delicious too. We'll definitely be coming back.4/25/2013 12:00:00 AMSunday Night Suppers-a greatSunday Night Suppers-a great idea-takes the guess-work out of what to order. Ample portions, exciting menu. We'll come again4/14/2013 12:00:00 AMBeautiful building and restaurant.Beautiful building and restaurant. I especially liked the bar.4/12/2013 12:00:00 AMAlthough our dinner was excellent,Although our dinner was excellent, we used a Groupon and did the $35/bottle corkage, so our excellent dinner was reasonable. However, without a Groupon I think this dinner would have cost more than I would pay for it.4/6/2013 12:00:00 AMLovely hideawayWe went early on a Thursday night~when most restaurants are not busy~our waitress was friendly and helped us with selections~the server was friendly~the food was very good~I'm no foodie so I am not qualified to say "outstanding."4/4/2013 12:00:00 AMCreative, flavorful presentationsCreative, flavorful presentations in a casual bistro setting. Balsan has the most extensive wine list I've ever seen!4/3/2013 12:00:00 AMHave been there before becauseHave been there before because we loved the restaurant and the food; it's wonderful for foodies.
Unfortunately, there were serveral children racing around making a whole lot of noise when we first arrived, which was surprising as it is the Waldorf Astoria. People at the bar were also very noisy but luckily they weren't there for a whole long time.
Food is superb. Fabulous chicken mousse, pate's and cheeses - Paris Brest one of the best desserts ever. Looking forward to our next visit.3/22/2013 12:00:00 AMI love their "two egg" plainI love their "two egg" plain omelet with potatoes and fruit (that's how I order it). The potatoes are special. I tried the apple and orange juice, they're good. The service is great.1/2/2013 12:00:00 AM