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Welcome to another exciting edition of our monthly Champagne City Guide, where we explore the world's finest places to savor the effervescent elegance of champagne. This month, we're delving into the vibrant city of Chicago, guided by none other than Philippe André, a true luminary in the world of wine and hospitality.
Philippe André's journey as a second-generation Sommelier and restaurateur has spanned nearly two decades, making him an invaluable figure in the industry. He not only serves as the U.S. Ambassador for Charles Heidsieck Champagne but also holds the esteemed position of Private Client Director at FOLIO Fine Wine Partners.
He shares his insider knowledge of the Windy City's best wine lists, from upscale lounges to hidden gems. Philippe's recommendations are sure to delight both champagne aficionados and newcomers alike.
RPM Steak
Situated within Chicago's vibrant River North neighborhood, RPM Steak offers a contemporary interpretation of the traditional steakhouse concept, showcasing an impressive selection of nearly twenty distinct beef cuts carefully sourced from renowned butchers worldwide.
Philippe's tip: Only place in the US to try the legendary 1983 vintage of Champagne Charlie, a unicorn champagne and one of the greatest wines ever made!
Don’t forget to pair it with Japanese Snow Beef A5 Wagyu
Address: 66 W Kinzie St, Chicago
Oceanique
Opened in 1989, Oceanique is family-owned restaurant catering to a wide spectrum exquisite seafood and prime meat dishes prepared in the French tradition. their wine program was penned by Philippe and boasts a selection of over 300 wines, including 24 available by the glass through the innovative Coravin system and is considered one of the top 750 wine list in the world according to Wine Spectator.
Philippe's tip: The best bouillabaisse outside of Provance, and the best vintage champagne list in Chicago is actually in Evanston!
Address: 505 Main St, Evanston
Website: www.oceanique.com
Valhalla
Valhalla, Chef Stephen Gillanders' ambitious restaurant, is located on the 2nd floor of Time Out Market in Chicago's Fulton Market District, offering a chic full-service dining experience with an 11-course tasting and a la carte menu reflecting his global culinary journey.
Philippe's tip: Go for my favorite wine pairing of the year: Rare Champagne 2008 & Rohan Duck Confit, unreal!!!!
Address: Time Out Market: 2nd Floor, 916 W Fulton Market, Chicago
Website: www.valhallachicago.com
Rose Mary
An industrial-chic restaurant with a bar offering Italian-Croatian cuisine, located in the historic Fulton Market district. The champagne selection includes the likes of Rene Geoffroy's Rose de Saignee in half bottles to Domaine de Marzilly Ullens.
Philippe's tip: Unique and thoughtful cuisine, perfect pairing is Rose by Charles Heidsieck!
Address: 932 W Fulton St, Chicago
Website: www.rosemarychicago.com
Virtue
Savor robust Southern cuisine along with a selection of wines and cocktails in a stylish, eclectic setting featuring an open kitchen in Hyde Park. Philippe believes they made the best gumbo outside of New Orleans!
Philippe's tip: don’t forget to share a bottle of Champagne with Chef!
Address: 1462 E 53rd St, Chicago
Website: www.virtuerestaurant.com
As a second-generation Sommelier and restaurateur, Philippe André has been a leader in the wine and hospitality industry for almost two decades. Philippe is the U.S. Ambassador at Charles Heidsieck Champagne and Private Client Director at FOLIO Fine Wine Partners. In addition to his Champagne travels Philippe serves as Communications Director for the Ferrari Club of America as well as Treasurer on the board of the United Sommeliers Foundation and was recently celebrated on the cover of Wine Enthusiast's as the top 40 Under 40 Tastemakers. You can follow Philippe and his love of Ferrari V12s, Champagne and Cuban cigars on Instagram at @niquesomm
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