How is Ampersand Wine Bar restaurant rated?

Name: Ampersand Wine Bar
Address: 4845 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL, United States, 60625
Telephone: (773) 728-0031
Price range: $31 to $50
Rating: 4.5

Ampersand Wine Bar

4.5

106 Reviews

$31 to $50

Contemporary American

Top Tags:

Ampersand Wine Bar strives to offer guests four things: an approachable wine list, a menu filled with rustic comfort food, delicious desserts and an inviting atmosphere. In addition to a wine club that meets regularly, Ampersand Wine Bar offers a dinner menu that is perfectly paired with every cocktail or wine on the menu. Try the small plates that include smoked hummus, roasted bone marrow or cauliflower gratin. The second course at Ampersand Wine Bar includes pasta with truffle cream and a poached egg or a meat cheese board. Try the seared salmon or roasted chicken breast and don�t leave without a taste of the ginger spiced carrot cake or vanilla bean mousse.

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Additional information

Dining style
Casual Dining
Price
$31 to $50
Cuisines
Contemporary American, Wine Bar, American
Hours of operation
Dinner; Tuesday - Thursday: 5:00pm - 10:00pm, Friday; 5:00pm - 11:00pm; Saturday; 5:00pm-11:00pm: Sunday: 5:00pm - 10:00pm
Phone number
(773) 728-0031
Website
http://www.ampersandchicago.com/
Payment options
AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Dress code
Casual Dress
Executive chef
Darren McGraw
Private party facilities
We offer full restaurant buy-outs during peak and off peak times. For larger tables during regular business hours, we offer curated prix fixe menus, special cocktails and pre-selected bubbly/wines.
Private party contact
Ricardo Mercado: (773) 728-0031

Location
4845 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60625
Neighborhood
Lincoln Square
Cross street
Lawrence
Parking details
Brown line: Damen stop Light Rail: Lawrence stop Bus: Damen & Ainslie stop is 50 ft. from the front door. Lawrence & Damen stop
Public transit
One block north of Damen Ave. Brown line stop. Two blocks west of Lawrence Metra stop 20 feet from Damen ave/Ainslie bus stop
Additional
Bar Dining, Beer, Counter Seating, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Wine

Kale Salad$10.00
with quinoa & roasted garlic vinaigrette
Charred Little Gem Lettuces$10.00
with molé rojo & roasted peppers
Heirloom Tomatoes*$12.00
with cous-cous salad and burrata mozzerella
Campanella*$15.00
with sun-dried tomotoes, fava beans & mint
Seared Scallop over Oxtail$16.00
chick peas & red pepper jus
Meat & Cheese Boards*
with house made crackers, olives, mostarda
- Small$14.00
- Large$20.00

Entreées

Whole Roasted Game Hen$20.00
parsnip confit & roasted summer squash
15 Hour Braise Beef Cheek$20.00
with charred tomatillos & fresh corn "pudding"
House-Made Lamb Sausage*$18.00
with preserved lemon, fava beans & Ethiopian awaze sauce
Seared Salmon In Coconut Red Curry*$18.00
with bean sprouts & sweet potatoes
Peak of Summer Eggplants$15.00
Roasted, pickled & baba ghanoush with toasted pita

Sides

Shishito Peppers*$7.00
roasted for 5 minutes with smoked sweet pepper cream
Sungold Cherry Tomato Salad$7.00
fresh basil & semolina gnocchi
Sauteéd Sweet Corn$7.00
served with kochujan butter & shaved parmesan

Desserts

S'mores$15.00
For two. C'mon. J'st ask
Millefeuille of Caramelized Puff Pastry$9.00
summer berries and whipped vanilla cream
Free Form Rustic Tart*$9.00
with stone fruit, toasted granola and honey caramel yogurt
Platter of Cookies*
candies & chocolates
- Small$10.00
- Large$15.00

What 106 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

4.5

4.5 based on all time ratings

4.4Food
4.5Service
4.3Ambience
4Value

Noise • Moderate

106 Reviews

OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago
2 reviews
4.0
2 reviews
Dined on September 25, 2016
Overall4Food4Service3Ambience4
We had a wonderful time, and really enjoyed the food and the ambience. The wine was especially amazing! Only issue was that two of the side dishes were way to spicy for us. I was surprised because I had asked the server about spice levels of the main dishes and ordered based on this information (ordering the less spicy dish), and he still didn't say anything when we ordered the spicy side dishes. I realize not everyone is a complete wuss when is comes to spiciness like I am, but I would have appreciated a heads up, or a spice indicator on the menu. They had indicators for vegan, gluten, free, etc., so it seems this could be added.
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G
Globalphile
Chicago
205 reviews
vip
5.0
205 reviews
Dined on September 25, 2016
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
After a horrible experience at The Blanchard in Chicago the night before, I had a really great experience at Ampersand Wine Bar. I loved the casual/ contemporary atmosphere, the wines, food and service. I was pleased with my rose wine and thought the heirloom tomato and burrata salad, the roasted game hen entree plus the rustic peach tart were excellent! I will definitely be back!!
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A
Anne
Chicago
54 reviews
vip
5.0
54 reviews
Dined on September 25, 2016
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
This sophisticated yet warm and welcoming restaurant was the perfect choice to celebrate a birthday. The food was fabulous and service impeccable. Truly a gem of a place!
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago
2 reviews
vip
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on September 23, 2016
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience4
Cute location, great wine list, excellent and friendly service, fabulous food.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago
3 reviews
5.0
3 reviews
Dined on September 21, 2016
Overall5Food4Service5Ambience5
I love the ambience and the vibe when it's quiet and when it's packed. We had a good dinner with few interruptions of our conversation. The wait staff is always great about explaining every item and doesn't flinch at my lack of knowledge. Lovely, lovely, lovely.
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C
Cecilia
Chicago
4 reviews
4.0
4 reviews
Dined on September 17, 2016
Overall4Food2Service4Ambience4
We went on a Friday night. I found the cheese plate to be very good. The eggplant plate was not exactly what I expected, and was more of an appetizer than an entre in my opinion. The Asian sauce on the salmon was good, but the salmon was overcooked. Overall the food was just okay. The vibe was very good. When we arrived, it was early enough that the restaurant wasn't crowded, and we enjoyed the relative quiet. The room is airy with a modern feel and an open kitchen. Very cool. The server was very wine-knowledgeable and friendly. In short, this is a fun date place but not the best food in the neighborhood.
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W
Wildcat21
Chicago
6 reviews
5.0
6 reviews
Dined on September 11, 2016
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
The service was outstanding. GREAT wine selection! The food is amazing and always changing. This was our 3rd time. Highly recommended for food and wine.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago
11 reviews
4.0
11 reviews
Dined on September 10, 2016
Overall4Food5Service4Ambience5
Amazing what they can do in their little kitchen space - We liked it very much!!
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago
13 reviews
vip
5.0
13 reviews
Dined on August 25, 2016
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
We were very impressed by the range and quality of the dishes at Ampersand. Flavors are confidently and thoughtfully developed while showcasing outstanding and varied cooking skills. While many "hot" restaurants rely on cliched ingredient constellations, Ampersand creatively uses seasonal produce in exciting ways. Vegetarian's and meat-lovers alike will be happy here. The wine list is lovely.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago
10 reviews
5.0
10 reviews
Dined on August 21, 2016
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
Great food, drinks and service! Had a great time celebrating a birthday and the dessert was amazing!
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LI
LINAB
Chicago
56 reviews
vip
5.0
56 reviews
Dined on August 21, 2016
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
This is a trendy, modern looking restau with a homey feel. The service was great as was the food. From appetizer to dessert, it was a flavor adventure. I had Damon with a spicy Ethiopian broth and I lapped it up! And dessert, wow, you have to try their twist in millefeuille. I'll definitely go again. Oh and try their specialty mescal drink, I've never had anything like it. :-)
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago
3 reviews
5.0
3 reviews
Dined on August 20, 2016
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
This is more than just a great wine bar--the food is also top-notch! They have excellent vegetarian selections, and service is knowledgeable and very friendly. This has become a favorite neighborhood spot.
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FT
FriendlyTaster
Chicago
15 reviews
4.0
15 reviews
Dined on August 14, 2016
Overall4Food4Service5Ambience4
Thoroughly enjoyed our dining experience. The food was unusual and tasty so we will definitely return.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago
1 review
4.0
1 review
Dined on August 14, 2016
Overall4Food5Service4Ambience3
Food was incredible ... everything had a bit of a spicy kick but not too much. We ordered the meat & cheese tray - wonderful! but they were running out of crackers so they only gave us 2?? Just make sure they have enough ;) Everything Delicious!
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C
Claire
Chicago
56 reviews
vip
4.0
56 reviews
Dined on August 13, 2016
Overall4Food4Service4Ambience5
This was a charming place where the food and wine did not disappoint. Smaller so not great for groups.
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M
Mike
Chicago
73 reviews
vip
5.0
73 reviews
Dined on July 31, 2016
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
A hidden gem made only better by the small but wonderful outdoor seating. Great cocktails, incredible wine list and flawlessly prepared and presented food.
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PK
PoojaK
Chicago
18 reviews
4.0
18 reviews
Dined on July 28, 2016
Overall4Food5Service4Ambience4
Great S'mores dessert! A deconstructed ice cream version...Nice concept comparing the English ampersand to the Asian Enso! Very impressive wine list. I also loved the 'Oxford comma ' drink with blueberries and pisco
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CS
ChristineS
Chicago
1 review
vip
5.0
1 review
Dined on July 23, 2016
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
A great date night place, casual and vibrant, excellent menu with great foodie options for dairy free
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LP
LisaP
Chicago
5 reviews
5.0
5 reviews
Dined on July 20, 2016
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
The food is always great and the servers are kind and knowledgable! Great place to go on a date or with a group of close friends. Ampersand never disappoints!
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j
jamesk
Chicago
14 reviews
vip
5.0
14 reviews
Dined on July 17, 2016
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
Had a terrific time with my wife and teenage daughter. Delicious small plates; great variety and tastes. Beautifully presented. Great desserts. Craft cocktails and well curated wine list. Fun to watch the action in their non-kitchen. Low key neighborhood; easy parking.
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S
Stu63
Chicago
20 reviews
5.0
20 reviews
Dined on July 15, 2016
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
Lovely food, great drinks (including mocktails!), terrific service. Love it.
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m
margo12
Chicago
4 reviews
vip
5.0
4 reviews
Dined on July 10, 2016
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience4
All the reviews are right! Great service, food is delicious and it's casual to be every day but can also be a special occasion.
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LB
LizBchicago
Chicago
152 reviews
vip
5.0
152 reviews
Dined on July 6, 2016
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
There are few restaurants in Chicago that are more friendly or accommodating! Or that serve such great, creative food. They happily let me bring a special bottle of champagne for a friend's birthday (b/c they don't have any actual Champagne on their list). Our server was funny, friendly and professional and the foood! Divine! The asparagus with soft-cooked egg and ranch "espuma" - wonderful. Even the cheese board - simple but so delicious (that mostarda made it!) I will be back as soon as I can!
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago
3 reviews
5.0
3 reviews
Dined on July 4, 2016
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
I have been to Ampersand numerous time and have always been impressed by the food and service. It is the place to take friends or family for a special night out.
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S
Schmeiller
Chicago
41 reviews
5.0
41 reviews
Dined on July 2, 2016
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
From the food to the wine flights, we had a perfect evening at Ampersand. Our server was incredibly knowledgable and took such good care of us. The shared plates paired perfectly with the wine selections. We'll be back!
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RM
RugbyMom
Chicago
19 reviews
5.0
19 reviews
Dined on July 1, 2016
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
The most wonderful food that is interesting and unusual without being precious and a most friendly, gracious, and absolutely knowledgeable staff.
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SR
SheriR
Chicago
9 reviews
4.0
9 reviews
Dined on June 19, 2016
Overall4Food4Service4Ambience4
Had a good time. Great wine. Good service-- loved our wine recommendations. Food prices are expensive for portion size and for the neighborhood. And the " BOH" charge was a surprise. Not sure if I will be back.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on June 13, 2016
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
The service was impeccable. The food was excellent. The ambiance made me feel like I was just as cool as the place.
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S
Stu63
Chicago
20 reviews
5.0
20 reviews
Dined on June 11, 2016
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
The food is fresh and intelligently prepared. The drinks are excellent. The servers know their stuff and are fun.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on May 29, 2016
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
Although Ampersand is a wine bar, you don't need to drink since the food is magnificent! We did have a couple of glasses of wine, and the selection was terrific. The assorted cookies and candies were delicious, and it was so much fun trying each of the 7 hand-made, made-on-site, unique items. Great place! Great time!
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JS
JimS
Chicago
40 reviews
vip
5.0
40 reviews
Dined on May 27, 2016
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
Simply the best neighborhood restaurant in Chicago. It is an ever changing array of small plates and amazing but affordable wines.
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AK
AgathaK
Chicago
1 review
vip
5.0
1 review
Dined on May 21, 2016
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
The food was delicious - we ordered and shared half the menu and every item was amazing. The rigatoni and octopus appetizers were great, and the duck confit risotto and porchetta were perfect. My friends enjoyed the cocktails, and I ordered a great red wine. Love this neighborhood spot and would definitely come back.
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MT
MarkT
Chicago
7 reviews
5.0
7 reviews
Dined on May 19, 2016
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
Great food, great service, incredible wine list. Top notch!
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r
rickey
Chicago
26 reviews
4.0
26 reviews
Dined on May 14, 2016
Overall4Food5Service5Ambience4
Great place to share small plates....which is what we did. We loved the the smoky tasting roasted cauliflower with goat cheese and a terrific curry compote (altho it was listed as cauliflower steak and came as florets instead) and the slow roasted brisket with blue cheese au gratin potatoes. Don't miss the creme brûlée. It's as good as it sounds! No, it's better. We had a table near the window so the noise level wasn't bad. Definitely on my list of restaurants I'll go back to.
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LA
LALA
Chicago
3 reviews
vip
4.0
3 reviews
Dined on May 14, 2016
Overall4Food3Service4Ambience4
really liked this place, but thought portions were quite small
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on May 13, 2016
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
Wine pairings were great
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KG
KatelynGee
Chicago
6 reviews
5.0
6 reviews
Dined on May 5, 2016
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
This is a great spot for wine on a weeknight. They have an extensive wine list and the food was delicious, too. I went with 3 friends and we had very prompt service and it wasn't very loud so it was easy to have a good conversation. I could see this being a good spot for first dates because it's chic but also mellow. I would go again!
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MH
MHen
Chicago
11 reviews
5.0
11 reviews
Dined on April 28, 2016
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
The food was marvelous and so was the wine. The service was great and we were seated promptly. I'm looking forward to going back!
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3
36whitelands
Chicago
39 reviews
5.0
39 reviews
Dined on April 28, 2016
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
I decided to try Ampersand after seeing a few good reviews. It lived up to the reviews! I was pretty hungry when we arrived and we chose 3 dishes to share - kale & quinoa salad, beef brisket and hawaiian fish and a bottle of wine (Gavi). I like to taste the wines before I decide and they were welcoming with my request. Everything was great and our waiter (also busboy and sommelier) was very helpful but not intrusive.
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w
willfred
Chicago
24 reviews
vip
5.0
24 reviews
Dined on April 23, 2016
Overall5Food5Service5Ambience4
For four people, we ordered what seemed like a small amount of food -- two appetizers, two mains and a side veg -- but with cocktails and wine it ended up being plenty. We ended the meal with a splurge: a four-person sampler of every dessert on the menu. Spectacular!
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FAQs

Ampersand Wine Bar is rated 4.5 stars by 106 OpenTable diners.

Not available on OpenTable

Unfortunately, this restaurant is not on the OpenTable reservation network.

If you like, we'll notify you by email if this restaurant joins.

Is this your restaurant?

Claim this listing

4845 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60625

Additional information

Cross street
Lawrence
Neighborhood
Lincoln Square
Hours of operation
Dinner; Tuesday - Thursday: 5:00pm - 10:00pm, Friday; 5:00pm - 11:00pm; Saturday; 5:00pm-11:00pm: Sunday: 5:00pm - 10:00pm
Price
$31 to $50
Cuisines
Contemporary American, Wine Bar, American
Dining style
Casual Dining
Dress code
Casual Dress
Parking details
Brown line: Damen stop Light Rail: Lawrence stop Bus: Damen & Ainslie stop is 50 ft. from the front door. Lawrence & Damen stop
Public transit
One block north of Damen Ave. Brown line stop.Two blocks west of Lawrence Metra stop20 feet from Damen ave/Ainslie bus stop
Payment options
AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Executive chef
Darren McGraw
Additional
Bar Dining, Beer, Counter Seating, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Wine

Website
http://www.ampersandchicago.com/
Phone number
(773) 728-0031
Private party facilities
We offer full restaurant buy-outs during peak and off peak times. For larger tables during regular business hours, we offer curated prix fixe menus, special cocktails and pre-selected bubbly/wines.
Private party contact
Ricardo Mercado: (773) 728-0031

Ampersand Wine Bar

Not available on OpenTable

Additional information

Menu

Salads & Starters

Kale Salad$10.00

Charred Little Gem Lettuces$10.00

Heirloom Tomatoes*$12.00

Campanella*$15.00

Seared Scallop over Oxtail$16.00

Meat & Cheese Boards*

Entreées

Whole Roasted Game Hen$20.00

15 Hour Braise Beef Cheek$20.00

House-Made Lamb Sausage*$18.00

Seared Salmon In Coconut Red Curry*$18.00

Peak of Summer Eggplants$15.00

Sides

Shishito Peppers*$7.00

Sungold Cherry Tomato Salad$7.00

Sauteéd Sweet Corn$7.00

Desserts

S'mores$15.00

Millefeuille of Caramelized Puff Pastry$9.00

Free Form Rustic Tart*$9.00

Platter of Cookies*

What 106 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

FAQs

How is Ampersand Wine Bar restaurant rated?

Not available on OpenTable

Additional information