Stylish hotel-adjacent New American spot with creative brunch and seafood; food can be excellent but service speed and consistency vary.
Somerset delivers solid neighborhood dining with exceptional setting appeal—a chic Gold Coast hotel space that impresses visually—and strong food quality anchored by standout seafood and creative global accents. However, inconsistent execution on steaks and brunch seasoning and slower service during peak times prevent the grade A territory that its design and best dishes suggest. Worth visiting for brunch or special occasions, particularly if you favor seafood over mains.
The dining room feels elegant and polished, all warm gold light and chandelier glow, with a patio that buzzes along State Street. Guests describe service that ranges from warm and attentive to stretched during peak brunch, with one diner noting, "the room looked like a magazine and set the tone for the night." In the kitchen, the cooking leans New American with creative global accents—think calamari with pretzel crunch, branzino with vibrant sauces, and brunch plates brightened by harissa, gochujang, and za'atar. When the line hits, it sings; when it stumbles, seasoning or doneness can slip, so more exacting diners may prefer seafood and starters over steaks. Families will find the menu accessible for kids: pancakes, French toast, fries, avocado toast, omelets, and simple eggs are all present, and one server even surprised children with a small keepsake. There is no dedicated kids menu, but the brunch section and sides cover the bases.
Area vibe: Upscale, boutique-hotel Gold Coast block drawing locals and visitors for polished dining and cocktails.
Safety: Generally safe, high foot traffic and good lighting typical of Gold Coast hotel corridor.
What's nearby: Attached to/next to Viceroy Chicago; near Rush/State bar-restaurant cluster and luxury retail.