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Inovasi Reviews List
Inovasi
Casual. Contemporary. American. Chef/Owner John des Rosiers’ vision comes to life at Inovasi with its relaxed setting and world class cuisine located 30 miles north of downtown Chicago in Lake Bluff.
Chef des Rosiers commits to personally searching for the finest quality ingredients by working with local and sustainable farms, including Elawa Farms in neighboring Lake Forest, Illinois. From his very own family recipes like Mom’s Sausage Gravy & Croquettes to the spontaneously put together, hand caught seafood dish Straight Out of the Sea, each full-flavored dish is served in an interesting way with rare and unique ingredients grown specifically for Inovasi.
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Chef des Rosiers commits to personally searching for the finest quality ingredients by working with local and sustainable farms, including Elawa Farms in neighboring Lake Forest, Illinois. From his very own family recipes like Mom’s Sausage Gravy & Croquettes to the spontaneously put together, hand caught seafood dish Straight Out of the Sea, each full-flavored dish is served in an interesting way with rare and unique ingredients grown specifically for Inovasi.
130 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall
(Outstanding)
4.2
/
5
Rating Breakdown 130 reviews
5 stars
(54)
4 stars
(51)
3 stars
(18)
2 stars
(6)
1 star
(1)
Food
(Outstanding)
4.2
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
4.1
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
- fit for foodies(89)
- neighborhood gem(71)
- special occasion(50)
- romantic(38)
- notable wine list(35)
- good for groups(26)
Inovasi Reviews List
Review 1 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Incredible inovasi
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Phenominal food, great wine list, outstanding service and John des Rosiers......it does not get any better!!!!"
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, romantic, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 2 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Always a delight to share
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"This continues to be my go-to spot on the North Shore. We always have consistently interesting and high quality food, great selection of wine (not the typical same options as most restaurants), and the service is always personable.
Thank you John and Staff!"
Dined on 5/08/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot
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Review 3 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The fish special wasn't, neither in the fish itself or the preparation. Duck was good but not spectacular."
Dined on 5/03/2013
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Review 4 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Hostess
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Hostess, Elken, is one of the reasons outside of the food that we love Inovasi. She always makes you feel special and welcome.
Food is consistently good, however, tacos were way too hot & we like spicey food. Chef got carried away on taco night.
Wine and beer selection is wonderful. Always a pleasant experience and love introducing friends to the restaurant. A gem
for downtown Lake Bluff."
Food is consistently good, however, tacos were way too hot & we like spicey food. Chef got carried away on taco night.
Wine and beer selection is wonderful. Always a pleasant experience and love introducing friends to the restaurant. A gem
for downtown Lake Bluff."
Dined on 5/02/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 5 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
shrimp taco-excellent: fries
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"shrimp taco-excellent: fries were deep fried wedges of potato with a thai peanut sauce which was rather tasteless; chicken in begger's purse was excellent, very moist...wait staff good-bartender never smiled and gave us water after drinks. If I was in the area, I'd eat there again but probably would not go out of my way.."
Dined on 04/26/2013
2008
Special Features: good for groups, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 6 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Special place for special occasions
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Really good selection of wines and nice ambiance.
We went for the tasting menu, and we loved it. Many comments say the portions are small, but for us they were ideal. We were really full at the end.
Props to the chef on the duck, best dish of the night, really fantastic. The desert was superb as well.
Our total bill for 2 was $197 including tax and tips.
We'll definitely be back."
We went for the tasting menu, and we loved it. Many comments say the portions are small, but for us they were ideal. We were really full at the end.
Props to the chef on the duck, best dish of the night, really fantastic. The desert was superb as well.
Our total bill for 2 was $197 including tax and tips.
We'll definitely be back."
Dined on 04/19/2013
2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 7 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
We had a party of 6 and 2
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We had a party of 6 and 2 of our orders came out wrong. The waiter was inattentive and actually chased us to the front door because he forgot we already paid our bill."
Dined on 04/23/2013
2002
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Review 8 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Unfortunately, Disappointing.
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"After seeing Inovasi on Check Please, my husband and I were so excited to try this neighborhood jem. Ok, so as much as I would love to write a positive review I truly can not. I will say that the staff was quite friendly, but our server definitely did not help guide us with our food choices which led to a disastrous experience. Our first course was the assorted mushrooms which were very flavorful and fresh. Next we had the teryaki wings & Roman Classic Pasta which were both brutally over salted to the point we really should have sent them back. Our bodies were begging for water the rest of the night. We decided to give one more dish a shot and tried the shrimp & homemade chitarra which was SO fishy I couldn't eat that either."
Dined on 04/20/2013
2008
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Review 9 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
John changing menu often is
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"John changing menu often is very welcome. Wonderful medium and large plate choices and the fact wine can be brought in is perfect as I have a large cellar selection"
Dined on 04/13/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, great for lunch
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Review 10 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Burger Nite is a special Treat
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"My husband and I were both in the mood for a great burger and we found it here. Fortunately, we happened on burger nite and could have many variations of the classic burger... All excellent. The service was very good and the place was very busy for a Tuesday evening with everyone seemingly enjoying their meal."
Dined on 04/09/2013
2011
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem
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Review 11 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Always a wonderful meal!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Always a wonderful meal! Chicken, bacon and blue cheese salad was delicious, as was the smoked turkey sandwich. Spent the time catching up with an old classmate, and never felt rushed. Will absolutely go back!"
Dined on 04/08/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 12 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Disappointed
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"So disappointed. Had seen some good reviews and liked what I saw on the menu. To be fair, the pasta special of the day was outstanding. However there were so many other negatives, that it lead to a very disappointing birthday dinner for my wife.
The salad that she ordered with "light dressing" came soaked in dressing to the point that she left most of it. She was unenthusiastic about her main course and the desert was so bad we left almost all of it. The pie crust was soggy and the filling just didn't taste good. No body inquired why we left so much food untasted. That sums up the level of service, not so much inattentive, but seemingly uncaring."
The salad that she ordered with "light dressing" came soaked in dressing to the point that she left most of it. She was unenthusiastic about her main course and the desert was so bad we left almost all of it. The pie crust was soggy and the filling just didn't taste good. No body inquired why we left so much food untasted. That sums up the level of service, not so much inattentive, but seemingly uncaring."
Dined on 04/02/2013
2004
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Review 13 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Excellent night out. We chose
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Excellent night out. We chose the tasting menu and were not disappointed. Lovely food. I can Especially recommend the calfs tongue
And slowly braised pork. The only downfall was that we ordered three times a wine they didnt have anymore."
And slowly braised pork. The only downfall was that we ordered three times a wine they didnt have anymore."
Dined on 04/05/2013
2013
Special Features: notable wine list, romantic
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Review 14 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Disappointed in the small
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Disappointed in the small plates this visit. In the past, have really enjoyed using this restaurant as a tapas place.
Food was generally good but the flatbreads were terrible. Instead of being light and crisp, they were just heavy. Had 2 and both were the same way. Menu lacks the creativity that used to be at Inovasi."
Dined on 03/30/2013
2001
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Review 15 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
THE Place to eat on the North Shore
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Ever changing menu. Always outstanding."
Dined on 03/28/2013
2006
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 16 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Inovasi...a North Shore gem!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Inovasi never disappoints. Chef John des Rosiers keeps the menu fresh with a changing array of delicious innovations using the finest ingredients. His staff is well trained, exceedingly helpful, and friendly without being overbearing as in some restaurants. Everyone works as a team to make the diner's experience top notch and memorable."
Dined on 03/30/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 17 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
All six of us had a very enjoyable
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"All six of us had a very enjoyable evening. There were menu items to meet everyone's tastes. The service was outstanding. We were never rushed and stayed longer than expected which made for a lovely evening with good friends."
Dined on 03/30/2013
2004
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 18 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
We had the fish catch of the
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We had the fish catch of the day and the pork. Both of them were ok. We also had two of their appetizers. Nothing was outstanding. The portions of the entrees were small. I also thought it was somewhat pricey considering the size of the portions.
Presentation was good, service was very good however the waiter was not entirely sure of everything that was in the entrees.
Would not go running back."
Dined on 03/23/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list
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Review 19 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
One of the best and most innovative
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"One of the best and most innovative horth of the city."
Dined on 03/16/2013
2002
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 20 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Interesting Menu
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"From the menu which included appetizers, soups, salads, and sandwiches we ordered salads. My companions loved the chopped shrimp and avocado salad. I ordered the organic quinoa with cranberries and roasted pecans. I liked the components of the salad but did not love the dijon vinaigrette dressing which detracted from the tastes of the other ingredients. We shared the Frozen custard with salted pretzel brittle and madras curry butterscotch and the truffles. The custard was OK but I never tasted curry. The brittle was good. There were 6 truffles 2 each: chocolate, rum raspberry, smoked bacon. Didn't love the bacon with chocolate. The chocolate truffle needed a chocolate filling."
Dined on 03/15/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch
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Review 21 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
I may have come on a bad night.
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"I did the tasting menu and was not very impressed.Buttersquash peanutbutter was amazing and the bread was warm and soft.Brussel sprouts were good but needed a bit more char.Salt cod was good but boring.Quinoa arancini was very good.Cheese plate was pleasing.Crispy chicken was very fatty hard to chew.Konro grilled shrimp was good but the lime zest overpowered the dish. Straight out of the sea dish was octopus with tomato sauce and the octopus was so salty it was hard to eat,the pasta was grainy and way undercooked.Local lamb stew was good but very one note and cilantro overpowered the perfectly cooked lamb.Duck was well cooked but herbs did not complement.Pork and grits were ok again but one note.Desert and service were amazing!"
Dined on 03/06/2013
2013
Special Features: romantic
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Review 22 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
We've enjoyed Inovasi several
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We've enjoyed Inovasi several times over the years, and it has even become one of our family's prime choices for a special birthday dinner, so you know that means that we like it. Nevertheless, I have to say that our most recent experience was the best yet. The menu is ever-changing, which is a great thing. There's now a wider choice of larger plates, plus a "Tasting" menu where the chef suprises the table with 4 courses of HIS choice. The Tasting menu was what we enjoyed on our most recent visit, and it was simply outstanding! The dishes ran the gamut, and all 4 of us loved almost every plate that was presented.
Inovasi seems to truly be hitting its stride at this point. GO - you'll be happy you did"
Dined on 03/09/2013
2004
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 23 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great Variety of Dishes
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"I took my wife here for her birthday because we were so impressed by the comments on Check Please. It lived up to our expectations in every way. My wife had a personal message from the chef wishing here a happy birthday waiting for her when we arrived. We had the Tasting Menu and there was not a single dish that wasn't excellent! We had a variety of 9 different dishes from beginning to end! The portions were generous for the two of us and we even brought home left-overs. We're already planning to return with my wife's brother and his wife."
Dined on 02/22/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 24 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great, always changing menu.
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Great, always changing menu. Local products uniquely prepared. service was 2nd to none. We tried things we wouldn't normally order and it was worth it! We had the tasting menu for 2 (brussel sprouts, pork sausage, salt cod, shrimp...so many choices!) It was a great intro to Inovasi. We will definitely be back and will be bringing friends."
Dined on 02/23/2013
2007
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 25 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great atmosphere, the service
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
"Great atmosphere, the service could have been better because the restaurant was not too busy. But the service was still good. I also wrote on the online reservation that one of the guests was celebrating a recent birthday so I wanted singing, but there was none. Overall, it was great and I know I'll go back."
Dined on 02/21/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 26 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Not on valentines day
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Don't come here on a romantic holiday weekend. We went for valentines day and it was the worst exp. ever. Bartender was mad, server was mad and most customers were mad. They just couldn't handle the crowd."
Dined on 02/16/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 27 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
I had lunch last week with
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I had lunch last week with a friend...we both ordered the beet salad. The salads arrived and my friend asked "where are the beets?" we both counted 4 small quarters of beets buried beneath a bed of greens. My salad was the same. One would think when ordering a beet salad that the beets would be the main component of the salad. When called to the attention of our server, he immediately brought us a small bowl of beets to add to our salad. He was very pleasant and accommodating. I would definitely return."
Dined on 02/15/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion, great for lunch
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Review 28 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Inovasi shines bright
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"This was my third visit to Inovasi and ended up being clearly the best. We were a party of four and opted for the tasting menu. The starters were delicious and included roasted Brussel Sprouts, Salted Beet Salad and incredible Salted Cod on toast. We also enjoyed a tomatoe bisque that was delicious in terms of freshness and flavor. Big plates included Big Eye Tuna from Hawaii, braised pork shoulder and a wonderful mushroom and rice creation. Service and pacing were right on target in spite of a robust Saturday evening crowd. Great atmosphere and chef/proprietor John des Rosiers was commanding the kitchen and clearly on his game. Nice having access to this quality of food without having to make the trek to the city."
Dined on 02/16/2013
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, hot spot
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Review 29 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
We had the tasting menu on
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We had the tasting menu on our visit & it was definitely the way to go. I'll definitely will be going back to try some of the other entrees. Wonderful time was had & they definitely made our night special."
Dined on 02/16/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 30 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Second time at Inovasi. Group
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Second time at Inovasi. Group of six. Everything we had was excellent, though not any memorable wows...but this is still very refined dining. Wine and beverage selections are far above average and priced fairly vs comparable rstaurants. A place thats easy to go back to. Had an after-dinner drink that was not on the menu but suggested by our server. Alcyone--a Tannat based dessert wine from Uruguay. Very unique and very good."
Dined on 02/16/2013
2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 31 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Poor)
1
/
5
Went for a romantic Valentine's
Food
(Poor)
1
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Went for a romantic Valentine's dinner. Had reservations. Got there a little early and were sitted itn the bar area. The bar area opened to the front door and every time it opened a blast of cold air cooled the room. No weather door at the restaurant. After the time went past our reservation time, I asked the hosted if our table was ready, and she had forgotten us. We were seated and immediately were served an appertizer that we didn't order. Someone else had and was mistakenly given to us. Then I ordered the special fish plate and my date ordered the steak. When my date's entre arrived, my dish was no where in sight. I told one of the servers that my entree had not arrived, she said she'd check. Our server forgot to put in the order. When"
Dined on 02/14/2013
2010
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Review 32 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great experience as always....tasti
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Great experience as always....tasting menu is always fun. Service could be more polished and attentive. Food was exceptional. Ann"
Dined on 02/14/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic
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Review 33 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great for a non date.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Came in and was sat right away with our reservation. Did take a few moments for our waiter to come by. Very friendly and eager to serve. Great knowledge of wine. The food was excellent and the wine was amazing. Not the quiet, intimate setting I was hoping for. Very loud. But overall, very pleased with our dinner."
Dined on 02/09/2013
2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, good for groups, notable wine list
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Review 34 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
As always excellent food and
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"As always excellent food and service"
Dined on 02/09/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 35 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Creative, delicious food
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Great night with delicious food! I love the creativity put into the dishes."
Dined on 02/09/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 36 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
We have eaten at Inovasi many
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We have eaten at Inovasi many times, and are happy to see they have returned to their roots - interesting, delicious food served in moderate portions. The beet salad is excellent, as was the grilled shrimp, tomato bisque, lamb stew. This restaurant occasionally gets off track with food that is too experimental, but it seems to right itself quickly. We look forward to returning soon."
Dined on 02/09/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 37 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
We had the tasting menu for
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"We had the tasting menu for two. Thought the appetizers were strong but the main courses we chose were average. Will probably try the restaurant again and try ordering other entrees."
Dined on 02/09/2013
2012
Special Features: good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic
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Review 38 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
I took a client for lunch.
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"I took a client for lunch. My only negative comment is that this is the second time that a particular seafood item listed on the menu has not been available."
Dined on 02/04/2013
2012
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Review 39 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Chef John des Rosiers has
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Chef John des Rosiers has created a pleasant island of civility in Lake Bluff, with good timing and attention to detail, as was the custom at Le Titi De Paris in its prime, which makes for a superb night out."
Dined on 02/02/2013
2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 40 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
We had a bad experience!
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Poor)
1
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"We had a bad experience! We were seated in a side room, with no ambiance and view of the kitchen entrance ( trash can and rags hanging on wall). They were out of the special and our second choice entree. The potatoes that came with our dinner were cold! Luckily, we came with good friends!"
Dined on 02/02/2013
2009
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Review 41 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
What can I say that has not
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"What can I say that has not been said on Check Please. Place is truly a gem."
Dined on 12/31/2012
2007
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 42 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food was delicious - as always!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Food was delicious - as always! Many great choices on the menu, and the service is top-drawer."
Dined on 01/26/2013
2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch
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Review 43 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
This was our second visit.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"This was our second visit. The first time we thought food was amazing and service great. This time both were even better. The Roman salad and salted beet salad were so flavorful. My husband had the pork with polenta--a unique presentation and probably the most tender he's ever had. I had a lamb stew that was in a light broth--perfect for a medium plate. Their thyme ice cream is becoming legendary. And, the Moulin Rouge cocktail was an unusual but perfect blending of vodka and fruit flavors. We had a great time."
Dined on 01/26/2013
2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 44 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Local Fare misses Local Opportunity
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Sea Scallop & Shrimp Seafood entrees miss the mark in an unbalanced combination and size for price. Sauces were 1)Bland 2)OVER SALTED ... and seafood thrown together w/ potatoes is not very creative!
Upon being seated , OpenTable Reso request for a quite table , fireside, was not honored when shown to a noisy table under a speaker blaring w/'staff tunes' . Instead of mentioning they had a wine tasting in desired room when we checked -in....hostess had to be prompted for an answer as to why we were not seated as per our request."
Upon being seated , OpenTable Reso request for a quite table , fireside, was not honored when shown to a noisy table under a speaker blaring w/'staff tunes' . Instead of mentioning they had a wine tasting in desired room when we checked -in....hostess had to be prompted for an answer as to why we were not seated as per our request."
Dined on 01/24/2013
2012
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 45 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
The food was very good but
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The food was very good but the whole experience was eh. S,m,l plate menu was confusing and plates did not fit on the table for 4. Lighting did not enhance the food. Chef's choice items were not understood well by waitstaff. Price was about 10% more than I thought it was worth. Would have done just as well for less at Prairie Grass. Was not loud only because we had seats in the furthest room in by the fireplace. We'll probably try this place one more time just to be sure."
Dined on 01/19/2013
2007
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies
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Review 46 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Waiter was uninformed--first
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Waiter was uninformed--first said they had one fish special left, then surprised us with three of that special, which looked as though they had simply split up one serving into three. Saturday at 6.45 they had run out of several items listed on the menu."
Dined on 01/19/2013
2007
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Review 47 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Outstanding burger night,
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Outstanding burger night, ever changing menu."
Dined on 01/15/2013
2006
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 48 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
There are so many things to
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"There are so many things to love about this restaurant. When we had to wait a few minutes past our reservation time, the manager offered to buy us drinks at the bar. We had a great bottle of Chateau Montelena zinfandel, the Roman salad, a shrimp appetizer (amazing), braised lamb stew, sirloin, and papaya sorbet. Everything was incredibly fresh, cooked perfectly and the flavors were outstanding. The portion sizes were exactly as described and certainly enough to satisfy a normal appetite. Service was efficient, but the server seemed cold and disengaged. Maybe it was because there were only two of us. Warm, friendly service is such a large part of the equation for us that we probably will not return. Sigh."
Dined on 01/19/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list
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Review 49 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food was great, keep up the
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Food was great, keep up the good work. The food is indeed innovative and is a refreshing break from the same old same old. I hope the restaurant continues in this excellent manner. A restaurant like this should have a long and fruitful tenure. We completely enjoyed our experience and look forward to future visits."
Dined on 01/19/2013
2012
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 50 for Inovasi
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Creative and welcoming!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"I don't know where to start! I feel the need to gush! Our first visit, and an amazing experience - a special anniversary for my wife an I was completed by a superlative dining experience at Inovasi. From the personalized welcoming note from Chef/Owner and Manager upon arrival, the imaginative wine list, the impecable table service, and the amazingly creative dishes, all combined to make this an unforgettable evening, for both of us. Highly recommend the Tasting Menu as an ideal way to experience the array of flavors from the freshest of ingredients - and quality wines by the glass makes for appropriate pairing throughout. Will definitely be back!"
Dined on 01/17/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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