We've heard a lot of good things about Cuatro (2030 S. Wabash) from friends and acquaintances but have never been until recently. They mostly spoke about the stylish decor and swanky people hanging out at night. Although we can't vouch for that, it's pretty easy to picture.Anyway, a couple friends of ours invited us to meet them at Cuatro for their "Bossa Nova Brunch", which happens every Sunday. Cuatro opens at 10am and that's when we were meeting them. We were a little early and the place was obviously just opening. One man sat by himself at the table and enjoyed some coffee with a newspaper. The rest of the people there seemed to be part of the staff and scattered around the place.
As we were greeted and seated, it was impossible not to notice the club music pounding from what appeared to be the kitchen. Although we were not exactly sure why the music was so loud, we joked that the party from last night was just ending. Doubtful...but maybe?
The decor in Cuatro was trendy. Art hanging everywhere and a unique feel aroudnd the whole place (especially given the industrial/commercial businesses neighboring the restaurant on South Wabash). We were quickly waited upon since there wasn't many people there and our friends ordered some mimosas, so I obviously had to follow suit.Upon receiving the drinks (that were refreshing by the way), we ordered our food. The menu at Cuatro was different then many places we've been. I haven't eaten much Latin American food, so anything I saw was going to be a new experience. Although we could have opted for something pretty exotic, everyone went for safe choices. Two orders of Tropical Pancakes which sounded and from what they said tasted delicious:
Coconut milk pancakes studded with fresh pineapple, mango and toasted pecans, served with warm pure Vermont maple syrup.Being that I'm not a huge fan of traditional brunch I went for a sandwich, which had a sweet but spicy sauce, avocado, Chicken and some other things I can't even remember. It was solid and unique, but I wasn't a huge fan of it and probably would get something different when I go next time. I also had a side of the purple Peruvian fries, which again were interesting but just so so.
The best thing was that about half through our meal (say 10:45ish) the Bossa Nova band was up and running, playing great grooves and really adding to the atmosphere. So much so that a couple decided they were going to start to dance (and by dance I mean the girl was doing some awkward shaking and the guy was not sure what to do). Although it didn't seem to faze many patrons in the restaurant, it was a little awkward in my book for 10:45am.
Regardless, it was a fun, cool place and something I would recommend. Just don't get a sandwich for brunch (but that probably goes without saying...). And I wouldn't recommend 10am...go a little later so you can enjoy the Bossa Nova!
