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Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria ChicagoReservations
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Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago Reviews List
Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago is a contemporary bistro showcasing refined, yet rustic fare with an American sensibility. Served in a relaxed social setting, the market-driven menu offers a wide range of options including family-style dining, shared plates and updated classics. It is located in the heart of Chicago’s Gold Coast neighborhood on the third floor of the Waldorf Astoria Chicago at 11 East Walton Street.
See more Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago details
121 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Rating Breakdown 121 reviews
5 stars
(33)
4 stars
(60)
3 stars
(19)
2 stars
(8)
1 star
(1)
Food
(Outstanding)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
4.1
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
3.9
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
- fit for foodies(64)
- special occasion(60)
- romantic(44)
- notable wine list(30)
- neighborhood gem(23)
- great for brunch(13)
Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago Reviews List
Review 1 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Sophisticated Dining
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Beginning 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."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, notable wine list, kid-friendly, romantic, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 2 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Elegant, Comfortable and Delicious
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Husband 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."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: great for brunch, scenic view, special occasion
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Review 3 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Balsan at the Waldorf
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The 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."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, special occasion
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Review 4 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
FAB, FAB, FAB
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Balsan, 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 Slaughter"
Dined on 4/30/2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 5 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Came here on a Groupon dinner
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Came 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."
Dined on 04/25/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 6 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Friendly staff and GREAT martinis.
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Friendly staff and GREAT martinis."
Dined on 04/19/2013
2011
Special Features: neighborhood gem, notable wine list
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Review 7 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
I chose Balsan for a Saturday
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"I chose Balsan for a Saturday lunch with a group of out of town women friends not realizing that they do not offer a lunch menu, per se.
They offer a brunch menu and breakfast only. So if you're looking for an amazing soup, entree salad or light "lunch" type entree, even though the location for a Gold Coast ladies day of shopping in the well-deserved, highly praised Waldorf is perfect, I would check out the other options. My egg white omelet was quite good, however."
Dined on 04/20/2013
2007
Special Features: kid-friendly
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Review 8 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
The food at Balsan is very
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The food at Balsan is very good. Unfortunately, the dining room itself is very uninviting. It feels small and cramped. Our table was practically on top of the bar. I wouldn't enjoy breakfast in that room, let alone a high-end dinner. I will not return to Balsan. It is unfortunate for the kitchen staff, who are turning out such good food."
Dined on 04/16/2013
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 9 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Sunday Night Suppers-a great
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Sunday Night Suppers-a great idea-takes the guess-work out of what to order. Ample portions, exciting menu. We'll come again"
Dined on 04/14/2013
2004
Special Features: neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 10 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Beautiful building and restaurant.
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Beautiful building and restaurant. I especially liked the bar."
Dined on 04/12/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 11 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Although our dinner was excellent,
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"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."
Dined on 04/06/2013
2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 12 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
The sirloin was good, but
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The sirloin was good, but the sides of fried potatoes was burnt to a crisp. This is our second time at Waldorf. The waitor was not that knowledgeable about the wine menu. We were using our groupon."
Dined on 04/05/2013
2012
Special Features: neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 13 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Lovely hideaway
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"We 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.""
Dined on 04/04/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, great for lunch
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Review 14 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Creative, flavorful presentations
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Creative, flavorful presentations in a casual bistro setting. Balsan has the most extensive wine list I've ever seen!"
Dined on 04/03/2013
2001
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, great for lunch
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Review 15 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Have been there before because
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Have 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."
Dined on 03/22/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 16 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
No black pepper was offered
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"No black pepper was offered for the salad that was served and the pasta came out only warm. When the manager came around and we shared these concerns, he merely said sorry and moved on. A very disappointing experience."
Dined on 03/22/2013
2010
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Review 17 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
We arrived a few minutes early
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We arrived a few minutes early for our reservation (party of 4)and the host apologized that he had accidentally given our table away and asked us to wait. We waited about 25 minutes for our table. I was surprised they did not make a token gesture to offer us a drink or an appetizer, though they are certainly not obligated - many restaurants of this caliber would likely have done so. When we got to the table it was sticky and we needed to call the waitress to wipe it off. Our waitress was - average. We ordered the charcuterie which was delicious. The rest of the meal was all average as well: East and West coast oysters, prawns, bucatini, burger and chicken. All in all, fine but overpriced for the experience/food especially in Chicago."
Dined on 03/15/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 18 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Very nice time
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We enjoyed a great dinner on Saturday night - all the entrees were prepared beautifully (the steak - cooked perfectly; the Amish chicken was extremely good, and the salmon was good enough as well). We especially enjoyed how every dish came with a very well balanced sauce and accompaniment - it seemed that every dish was well thought out. The only disappointment was the apple fritter dessert, but not a big deal in light of the whole night. The wine list is quite a beast - in a good way - be prepared to spend at least 20 minutes reviewing it! Our service was very attentive and friendly - if not a bit over-eager. Great night overall."
Dined on 03/09/2013
2002
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Review 19 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
The service was exceptional,
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"The service was exceptional, the food absolutely perfect. It was early because we were going to a play, so it was quiet and relaxing. We still had excellent service and attention!!"
Dined on 03/06/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 20 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Would not recommend for breakfast.
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Would not recommend for breakfast."
Dined on 03/06/2013
2011
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Review 21 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Nice setting, excellent service,
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Nice setting, excellent service, great cheese offerings."
Dined on 03/01/2013
2007
Special Features: neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 22 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
good food and great service
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The food was good, the wine list extensive and the service wonderful! It was a bit loud though, however, definitely would go again and also recommend Balsan, especially for the knowledgeable and courteous service!"
Dined on 03/02/2013
2012
Special Features: notable wine list
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Review 23 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
DELICIOUS!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The food was just absolutely delicious!!!! It isn't the cheapest place in the world but the food is worth it! The service is slower than an in and out, chain restaurant but that is expected when doing a multiple course meal! Yum!"
Dined on 03/01/2013
2008
Special Features: romantic, special occasion
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Review 24 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
This restaurant and entire
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"This restaurant and entire property has declined since the Hilton group has taken over from the former Elysian."
Dined on 02/21/2013
2004
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Review 25 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Balsan is a favorite that
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Balsan is a favorite that I dont get to often enough. Our Saturday brunch menu was a great value for the "prix-fixe" and its accompaniments. Just wish we were able to take advantage of the yummy drink menu but alas we had too many errands. Had the caesar salad, my friend had the prawns and grits -- both were very tasty and the service was fantastic."
Dined on 02/23/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 26 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
I love their unusual dishes
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"I love their unusual dishes and fresh ingredients."
Dined on 02/22/2013
2013
Special Features: great for brunch
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Review 27 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
The restaurant was a nice
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"The restaurant was a nice atmosphere. The service was great. The menu we were told changes often so the meals are prepared as is."
Dined on 02/19/2013
2010
Special Features: romantic, special occasion
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Review 28 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great Food
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We were staying at the Waldorf, so we had one dinner and two breakfast/early brunch meals.
Let me start by saying that the food at all three meals was over the top wonderful. Cooked perfectly and plated beautifully. Both of the waiters we had for breakfast were efficient, friendly and very pleasant. The waitress we had at dinner (our first night and we were tired from traveling and looking for a great first impression), was a little condescending to our 13 year old (who has eaten at fine dining restaurants her whole life), and not very attentive. Overall, we will definitely go back. Can't say enough about how great the food was."
Let me start by saying that the food at all three meals was over the top wonderful. Cooked perfectly and plated beautifully. Both of the waiters we had for breakfast were efficient, friendly and very pleasant. The waitress we had at dinner (our first night and we were tired from traveling and looking for a great first impression), was a little condescending to our 13 year old (who has eaten at fine dining restaurants her whole life), and not very attentive. Overall, we will definitely go back. Can't say enough about how great the food was."
Dined on 02/15/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch
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Review 29 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Had a great time at Balsan!
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Had a great time at Balsan! Our waiter in particular was amazing!Definitely can't wait to go back."
Dined on 02/08/2013
2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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Review 30 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
I was introduced to this restaurant
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"I was introduced to this restaurant through a Groupon however the food options and flavor were great! It is an expensive restaurant, as would be expected, however, it is worth the cost."
Dined on 02/11/2013
2005
Special Features: late-night find, romantic, special occasion
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Review 31 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Poor)
1
/
5
Poor Restuarant Week participant
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Balsan should skip their involvement in Restaurant Week - they obviously were NOT interested in having those who participated back again. The server was so full of attitude that even she made note of it when we responded negatively."
Dined on 02/07/2013
2008
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Review 32 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
My experience here during
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"My experience here during restaurant week was great. The food was delicious and the and service and ambiance were very nice."
Dined on 02/08/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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Review 33 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Wonderful service and celebration
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Wonderful service and celebration of our engagement and restaurant week in Chicago."
Dined on 02/08/2013
2012
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 34 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Great decor, so so food and
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Great decor, so so food and service."
Dined on 01/11/2013
2006
Special Features: good for groups
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Review 35 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
I went for Restaurant Week,
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"I went for Restaurant Week, and was very happy with everything about this place! I had a massage in the hotel spa, then came down to have dinner with my boyfriend. I was a little early, so decided to have a drink at the bar. The bartender checked my coat and extra bag immediately, and was very nice. Even though an automatic 18% gratuity is added to all checks, the service was impeccable. I was very impressed and would go back often!"
Dined on 02/08/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 36 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
The room is elegant but food
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"The room is elegant but food is very unimaginative and uninspiring. My lentil soup was very bland. The salmon was well cooked and beautifully presented with steamed ruby chard stems but again, lacked flavor. The service was disappointing for a hotel that is supposed to be five stars. Our waiter rushed us through the meal even though the restaurant was not even half full. He did not try to make an effort to make any recommendations. And while my friend was still eating her main course, he came by to present us with dessert menus. I had to verbally tell him that we were not done with our main yet. He really did not have eyes for detail at all. Very surprising for an upscale establishment."
Dined on 02/06/2013
2009
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Review 37 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Wood Fire Grill
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Only problem was being told upon being seated for a confirmed, specifically for RW, 1:45pm lunch reservation that Balsan was not honoring Restaurant Week on weekends, then told they were but only after 5pm, and lastly being given the RW menu afterall.
That being said the food & service to follow were perfection. A lowly chicken club was elevated to star status with grilled chicken, smoky deli meats, creamy avocado, just the right amount of toast to the bread & served with the best potato chips fried in beef tallow. The salmon wonderfully full & smoky from grill atop wistfully wilted Swiss Chard.
Hazult crepe with kumquat gelato capped the taste experience.
Gem I would never have found tried if not for RW13."
That being said the food & service to follow were perfection. A lowly chicken club was elevated to star status with grilled chicken, smoky deli meats, creamy avocado, just the right amount of toast to the bread & served with the best potato chips fried in beef tallow. The salmon wonderfully full & smoky from grill atop wistfully wilted Swiss Chard.
Hazult crepe with kumquat gelato capped the taste experience.
Gem I would never have found tried if not for RW13."
Dined on 02/03/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 38 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Good, but not of the same
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Good, but not of the same quality as before. Except of course for the Paris Brest, which was superb as ususal.
Had the restaurants week for $44 and felt that the menu was dumbed down. Have had better meals with the sunday night supper and during the week at previous visits.
Had the restaurants week for $44 and felt that the menu was dumbed down. Have had better meals with the sunday night supper and during the week at previous visits.
Was not bad, just not as flavorful as before. Musses; Rillette, soup, salad, pasta. Just bland. Do not know if there has been a chef change related to Ria closure, but had not heard that there was"
Dined on 02/03/2013
2002
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Review 39 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Big disappointment
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Big disappointment. The hotel itself is gorgeous and makes a glamorous first impression, but the restaurant decor is not at all in keeping with the elegance of the hotel and desperately needs an overhaul. Think old Holiday Inn with an unpleasant and pervasive fish smell. The food was just ok and wildly overpriced. The first entree option is bowtie pasta with broccoli and is priced at $28 which is ala carte. Also, be aware that while the wine list is extensive, the least expensive glass is $14 and the least expensive bottle of Pinot Noir is $75. The valet parking is $18 (plus tip, of course). I don't mind paying top dollar for a great meal, but this just wasn't worth what we spent."
Dined on 02/03/2013
2003
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Review 40 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
We went here for Restaurant
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We went here for Restaurant Week. It was good, but not memorable. The service was excellent, the food was tasty, but Chicago is blessed with tons of good restaurants - particularly at this price point - and rather a lot of great ones. I certainly wouldn't dissuade anyone from going here if they're in the area, but the biggest test of a restaurant for me is whether I would go back again.
With Balsan, that answer is no."
With Balsan, that answer is no."
Dined on 02/02/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 41 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Went for Restaurant Week and
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Went for Restaurant Week and had the special menu; it was a pretty good representation of their base menu. We started with oysters, then lentil soup and mussels for my wife; I had the chicken mousse and sirloin. All items were very good, probably the best item was the mussels. The Paris-Brest was a very good dessert. Service was fine, drinks were very nice."
Dined on 02/01/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem
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Review 42 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
My husband and I went for
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"My husband and I went for restaurant week, and found the food to be worth the money we paid. Atmosphere was nice, not overly crowded, and not too loud. It was nice to have a place that you can have a conversation during dinner. We especially loved the dessert. That was the highlight.
Since we live in the neighborhood, we will definitely come back again. The waitress had told us about the Sunday Supper deals that would be great for my husband and I to frequent and try different foods each week."
Dined on 02/01/2013
2000
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 43 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Nice Time
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Was a great time and food was on point. My only suggestion is that the server should not auto-grat for a party of two, especially since we spent $170 and knew that we would be leaving well over 20% tip. The auto-grat was a little insulting but everything else was great!"
Dined on 01/31/2013
2013
Special Features: notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 44 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
The space is absolutely beautiful.
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The space is absolutely beautiful. The drinks, although expensive are imaginative and delicious. The food was very good. We went on a Groupon, so the value was outstanding. I couldn't think of a better place to celebrate our 14th anniversary. We were both quite pleased."
Dined on 01/26/2013
2005
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 45 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Wine priced for the Top 1%
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The service warmed up as dinner progressed and our waiter worked at it. As I noted, the wine list was extensive but way, way overdone both in price and volume. Both of the first choices I made at the lower price range, if there is such a thing here, were out of stock. The waiter offered alternatives at the same price. After the second failure he noted that they were replacing the wine manager as well as the selection and hence were running low/out of many selections. A more balanced offering would be a better match to the menu pricing in general which was satisfactory. Overall, at this point it is a place to visit then move on."
Dined on 01/25/2013
2002
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, notable wine list
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Review 46 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
A Nice, Intimate Restaurant
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"A friend and I had dinner at Balsan Friday. We booked a reservation on Open Table a week in advance and, despite hoping for 7:00 p.m., were given options for table at 6:00 or ealier or 8:30 or later. We took 6:00 and, of course, were not surprised to see that there were at least half a dozen tables open until 8:30 - very aggravating. The food was good as was the wine list although very limited by the glass.
In keeping with a French country theme, portions are small which we liked. But if you are looking for the huge portions typical of so many restaurants, you'll be disappointed. We were surprised that the restuarant automatically adds an 18% gratuity which was ironic given the Wall Street Journal article the same day on "tip creep""
Dined on 01/25/2013
2010
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Review 47 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
We found the service late
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"We found the service late at the beginning- but once we connected with our server-he was great!
The food was very good..but the wine list was unbelievably expensive. It didn't go along with the pricing of the food!. The bottles were starting at $200 a bottle & went up to $600. We each had a glass of wine in the $20,s instead.
The birthday dessert was compd- very nice! It was a special occasion so we were expecting to spend more than average downtown dinner prices."
The food was very good..but the wine list was unbelievably expensive. It didn't go along with the pricing of the food!. The bottles were starting at $200 a bottle & went up to $600. We each had a glass of wine in the $20,s instead.
The birthday dessert was compd- very nice! It was a special occasion so we were expecting to spend more than average downtown dinner prices."
Dined on 01/19/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 48 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great night out restautant
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Great food and service - fantastic presentations"
Dined on 01/19/2013
2010
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, late-night find, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 49 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great food and drinks. We
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Great food and drinks. We would come back. Waitress must have had a lot of tables that night, because she wasn't as attentive as I would have liked a server to be."
Dined on 01/19/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 50 for Balsan at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Bistro style service- friendly
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Bistro style service- friendly yet spot-on professional. Familiar dishes with contemporary creativity and above all, delicious. A very enjoyable experience at Balsan!"
Dined on 01/19/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic
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