Mercat a la Planxa Chicago: A Culinary Journey to Catalonia in the Heart of the Windy City

Stepping into **Mercat a la Planxa Chicago** is like being instantly transported to the vibrant, bustling streets of Barcelona, where the aroma of sizzling garlic and paprika fills the air and the clinking of glasses echoes with lively conversation. Nestled within the elegant **Warwick Allerton Hotel at 630 N Rush St, Chicago, IL 60611**, this beloved restaurant is a jewel in Chicago’s diverse culinary crown, offering an authentic yet modern take on traditional Catalan and Spanish tapas. The ambience here is a masterful blend of rustic charm and sophisticated urbanity, with exposed brick, warm lighting, and the inviting buzz of an open kitchen that promises an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely breakfast to start your day, a vibrant weekend brunch with friends, or an intimate dinner, Mercat a la Planxa caters to every occasion. The restaurant welcomes guests for **Breakfast Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM**, and on **Saturdays and Sundays from 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM**. For those looking for a delightful mid-day treat, their popular **Brunch is served on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM**. As the evening draws in, the culinary magic continues with **Dinner service available Sunday through Thursday from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM**, and extending later on **Friday and Saturday evenings from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM**, perfect for a pre-theater meal or a relaxed late-night feast. Should you wish to make a reservation or inquire further, the friendly team can be reached at **(312) 239-0105**. Prepare to immerse yourself in a truly Spanish culinary adventure without leaving the magnificent Magnificent Mile.

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Menu Highlights: A Feast for the Senses at Mercat a la Planxa Chicago

Mercat a la Planxa’s menu is a vibrant tapestry woven from the rich culinary traditions of Catalonia, skillfully reimagined by renowned Chef Jose Garces. It’s designed for sharing, encouraging diners to explore a myriad of flavors and textures, just as they would in a bustling Spanish market. From classic tapas to robust a la planxa dishes and communal paellas, every item promises a journey for your palate. Here’s a glimpse into some of the must-try dishes that make dining here such an extraordinary experience.

Tapas – Small Plates, Big Flavors

The heart of Spanish dining lies in tapas, and Mercat a la Planxa truly excels in this tradition. These small, shareable plates are perfect for starting your meal, offering a diverse array of tastes and allowing you to sample many different aspects of the menu. Each dish is crafted with fresh ingredients and authentic techniques, ensuring an explosion of flavor in every bite.

* Patatas Bravas: Crispy fried potatoes, spicy bravas sauce, rich aioli drizzle.
* Gambas al Ajillo: Sizzling garlic shrimp, chili flakes, olive oil, crusty bread.
* Croquetas de Jamón: Creamy béchamel fritters, savory serrano ham, perfectly golden fried.
* Pan con Tomate: Toasted bread, fresh grated tomato, garlic rub, olive oil.
* Tortilla Española: Classic Spanish potato and onion omelet, perfectly seasoned and cooked.
* Chorizo a la Plancha: Grilled Spanish chorizo, smoky flavor, touch of sweetness.
* Pimientos de Padrón: Blistered small green peppers, sea salt, some are spicy.
* Pulpo a la Gallega: Tender grilled octopus, paprika, potatoes, Spanish olive oil.
* Setas con Ajo: Sautéed wild mushrooms, garlic, herbs, rich earthy flavors.
* Boquerones en Vinagre: Marinated white anchovies, garlic, parsley, tangy vinaigrette.
* Espárragos con Romesco: Grilled asparagus, vibrant romesco sauce, toasted almonds.
* Olivas Mixtas: Marinated Spanish olives, herbs, citrus peel, delightful appetizer.
* Queso de Cabra al Horno: Baked goat cheese, tomato marmalade, crusty bread, sweet and savory.
* Empanadillas de Pollo: Savory pastries, tender shredded chicken filling, perfectly seasoned.
* Berenjenas con Miel: Fried eggplant, drizzle of honey, delightful sweet and savory snack.
* Datiles Rellenos: Bacon-wrapped dates, blue cheese stuffing, sweet, savory, irresistible combination.
* Albóndigas: Spanish meatballs, rich tomato sauce, served with crusty bread.
* Ensalada de Remolacha: Roasted beet salad, goat cheese, pistachios, sherry vinaigrette.

A La Plancha – From the Griddle

The “a la planxa” in the restaurant’s name refers to cooking on a griddle, a technique celebrated in Spanish cuisine for its ability to perfectly sear ingredients, locking in moisture and intensifying flavors. These dishes often feature high-quality meats and seafood, cooked simply yet expertly to highlight their natural deliciousness.

* Secreto Ibérico: Grilled Iberico pork, flavorful, tender, expertly seasoned.
* Lubina a la Plancha: Grilled sea bass, light, flaky, served with seasonal vegetables.
* Chuleta de Cerdo: Grilled pork chop, robust flavor, juicy, perfectly cooked.
* Filete de Res: Seared beef tenderloin, tender, rich, with accompanying sauce.
* Pollo a la Plancha: Grilled chicken breast, simple, fresh, healthy option.
* Parrillada Mixta: Mixed grill of meats, seafood, vegetables, perfect for sharing.

Paellas – The Ultimate Communal Dish

No Spanish culinary experience is complete without paella, and Mercat a la Planxa offers several exquisite versions, ideal for sharing among friends and family. These large, shallow pans of saffron-infused rice, cooked to perfection with a crispy “socarrat” bottom, are a true centerpiece.

* Paella Valenciana: Classic chicken, rabbit, green beans, saffron infused rice.
* Paella de Mariscos: Seafood paella, shrimp, mussels, calamari, rich saffron rice.
* Paella Vegetal: Seasonal vegetables, saffron rice, flavorful and vibrant vegetarian option.
* Paella Negra: Squid ink paella, calamari, shrimp, distinctive rich flavor.

Postres – Sweet Endings

Conclude your Spanish feast with a delightful dessert, each one a classic representation of traditional Spanish sweets, offering a perfect balance of richness and sweetness.

* Churros con Chocolate: Crispy fried dough, cinnamon sugar, warm chocolate dipping sauce.
* Crema Catalana: Spanish custard, caramelized sugar top, delicate and creamy.
* Flan de Caramelo: Classic caramel custard, smooth, rich, perfectly sweet finish.
* Tarta de Santiago: Almond cake, light, moist, traditional Spanish delicacy.
* Sorbete del Día: Refreshing daily sorbet, seasonal fruits, light and palate cleansing.

Mercat a la Planxa’s interior exudes a rustic-chic elegance, blending exposed brick and dark wood with warm, inviting lighting. The open kitchen creates an energetic, bustling atmosphere, allowing diners glimpses into the culinary magic. Service is consistently attentive and knowledgeable, with staff expertly guiding guests through the tapas-style dining experience. While considered upscale casual, the pricing reflects the quality of ingredients and sophisticated preparation, making it perfect for special occasions. The vibe is lively and sophisticated, ideal for dates, celebrations, or pre-theater dining in a vibrant Spanish setting.

A Taste of Spain, Unforgettable Memories

Mercat a la Planxa Chicago truly stands out as a culinary gem, offering an experience that transcends mere dining to become a journey. While every dish is a testament to quality, the **Patatas Bravas** are an absolute must-try – perfectly crispy with an addictive bravas sauce and creamy aioli that will have you ordering a second plate. The **Gambas al Ajillo** sizzle with intoxicating garlic aroma, embodying the simplicity and perfection of Spanish cuisine. For a truly communal experience, any of their **Paellas**, especially the robust **Paella de Mariscos**, offer a rich and satisfying shared meal, cooked with authentic flair.

This restaurant is a perfect destination for a wide array of diners. Food enthusiasts seeking an authentic Spanish and Catalan experience will find themselves delighted by the diverse and expertly prepared menu. It’s ideal for couples looking for a romantic date night, groups of friends eager to share a variety of small plates and lively conversation, or even families celebrating a special occasion. Its location near Chicago’s Magnificent Mile also makes it a fantastic choice for tourists wanting a memorable meal after a day of sightseeing and shopping.

In a city brimming with exceptional dining options, Mercat a la Planxa carves its own niche with its vibrant atmosphere, impeccable service, and consistently delicious food. It’s more than just a restaurant; it’s a celebration of Spanish culture and cuisine that transports you to the sun-drenched streets of Barcelona with every bite. From the first patata to the last churro, Mercat a la Planxa delivers a dining experience that is genuinely warm, inviting, and utterly delicious. Highly recommended for anyone craving a taste of Spain in the heart of Chicago!

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