A festive crowd enjoys the traditional brass band in the packed spatenbrau Ochsenbraterei tent at Munich Oktoberfest

Restaurant Review: West Loop’s The Publican a homage to European Beer Halls

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A festive crowd enjoys the traditional brass band in the packed spatenbrau Ochsenbraterei tent at Munich Oktoberfest

An homage to oysters, pork and beer, The Publican’seclectic menu is inspired by simple farmhouse fare in a space evocative of a European beer hall. 

The inspiration of Chef-Partner Paul Kahan, the restaurant is an homage to “oysters, pork and beer,” utilizing hand-selected and sustainably-raised fish, seafood and pork.

Start with a Chef’s selection of oysters, which could include a sweet, buttery Tumblekin, or a crisp Wellfleet.

Move on to a 24-ounce Ham Chop in Hay, served with collard greens and maple-braised turnips. Or a Country Rib with smoked apple butter, chicory salad, manchego, and rosemary vinaigrette. Or a Sirloin with butternut squash, glazed mushrooms and horseradish.

Don’t miss out on their charcuterie boards! Their Duck and Pork Rillettes are served with seasonal preserves and sourdough toast, while their Ham Plate is served with Serrano ham, PQB sourdough, and cultured butter.

Google reviews were ecstatic 

“The food, the service, chef’s kiss. The bartender made me a custom drink which was perfect. The food timing was perfect so they were staggering foods and all came out hot and fresh. The oysters were fresh flavorful; the beef frites was so delicious and didn’t even need the garlic aioli which made it even better. The porchetta was beyond this world and had the perfect balance of everything. The mushrooms were perfect In texture and soaked in the delicious flavoring while still maintaining the mushroom taste. All other foods were also just as good and I could rave on and on about it. The service was outstanding and we felt taken care of. 10/10 would recommend and come back again.”

The Publican is located at 837 W. Fulton Market. They are open Wednesday and Thursday, 4pm–10pm, Fridays, 4pm–10:30pm, Saturdays for brunch, 10am–2pm, and for dinner, 4pm-10:30pm, Sunday brunch,10am–2pm, and for dinner, 4pm–9pm, and Monday and Tuesday, 4pm–10pm. While hours may differ during the holidays, they are planning a New Year’s Day brunch to welcome 2024 right! For more information and reservations, click here.

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago