Offering a superb sampling of fare from several former Soviet republics (Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Georgia), the menu of this family-run restaurant educates and delights. Located near Orchestra Hall and the Art Institute, Russian Tea Time highlights delectable dishes that range from rustic to refined. Special features include a first-rate caviar selection, special teas, and ample choices for vegetarians, all served in a dazzling room, warm in rich red tones and mahogany. At dinner, the dining room can be bustling, but the staff is always hospitable.
Best known for its Russian tea, caviar and selection of vodka, this is a fine dining establishment. The restaurant serves home-style Russian, Polish and American foods where it`s common to order vegetarian meals. Expect the average entrée to cost between $12 and $20, and plan to fit the scene by dressing casual, but fashionable.
Atmosphere: Russian Tea Time was opened in 1993 by mother-son team, Klara and Vadim Muchnik who immigrated to the United States in 1990. The restaurant. The establishment has an elegant wood finished Victorian era European style décor. The interior is accented by wood tones, and the lighting is via chandelier. The décor is accented with classic brass.
The restaurant has two dining rooms with seating for 110 people. It is warm and relaxed and frequented by a prestigious, well-off and well-known crowd. Table talk is no problem here - noise level is unobtrusive.
More Reasons to Go: There is folk music playing in the background at this restaurant. Russian Tea Time is appropriate (if not ideal) for entertaining clients, birthdays, anniversaries, other romantic evenings and private parties; also, the establishment is often frequented prior the theatre and has an appropriate pretheatre menu for such occasions.
Eating & Drinking: Open for lunch and dinner. The menu here at Russian Tea Time changes twice-a-year. Some of the more popular menu items include: assortment platter, beef stroganoff, Uzbek lamb chops, borscht, caviar and blini, homemade apricot & plum strudel and Russian tea. There is also a pretheatre menu available.
A full selection of alcoholic beverages are served, and you`ll find that there is an excellent wine list. In addition, the restaurant has a seated bar inside.
Notable Mention: One of the ``Top 10 Healthy Restaurants in U.S.`` by Vegetarian Resource Magazine (1995); ``Four Stars`` for uniqueness and service, Chicago Tribune (1996).
Details to Note: Reservations are suggested. Delivery and carryout are available. Catering for various events can be arranged (call for details & quotes). Smoking is not permitted. Entrances and walkways are wheelchair friendly. Children are welcome. The restaurant stays open late. Parking has been arranged for customers.
Ways to Pay: Cash, MasterCard, Visa, American Express, Diners Club, Discover and Carte Blanche
Tips on Finding: steps from Art Institute and Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Corner of Adams and Michigan Avenue.
Hours of Operation: Sun/Mon: 11am-11pm
Tue-Thu: 11am-11pm
Fri/Sat: 11am-12am
