Duck Sel — Attraction in West Chicago Township

After meeting Donald at Venteux, dining there several times, and finding out he was leaving, we decided to follow him and see what was next... and I can honestly say it was worth it.

I think I could probably write an entire article on how awesome Duck Sel's popup experiences are, but I'll try to keep it shorter and give the highlights.

The first thing I will say is these experiences are truly that, experiences. They are not like walking into a restaurant and being seated at a table anonymously. You end up dining with people that you've never met in a dinner party-like environment where you everyone (including Chef) shares stories and laughs.

There's something special and unique about the food we were served. Perhaps it was the mini appetizers so full of flavor that you want a plate full, or the 'just' cooked halibut with sauce so good you want to lick the plate; or maybe the short rib with the okonomiyaki with such great flavors on the plate... or the duck with the flavors that are reminiscent of your childhood. And who can forget the deserst! The perfectly sweet and salty soufle or the combination of sweet and smoky that leaves you wanting to take a full plate of it home to eat later. There was not a dull plate throughout this meal, and each plate was accompanied by the perfect beverage pairings (tea for me, wine for my husband).

I'll also mention the little easter eggs that you'll find around the apartment during your experience. I won't spoil them for you, but make sure to keep your eyes peeled for ducks!

Chef Donald has created an experience unlike any other, bringing people together over something that we can all enjoy together: the most...

My husband and I had the pleasure of dining with Chef Donald this past weekend and were blown away by the incredible menu and personalized experience that was created. It is not your traditional setting, but that lends even more to the unforgettable evening that Chef Donald and his team created. Upon arrival, you are welcomed with a cocktail and given time to meet and mingle with your fellow dinner guests. After being seated is when the facets of the culinary experience truly begins to shine through. Every course is prepared, plated and presented so beautifully that you cannot help but take the first bite with your eyes. The hands on approach that Chef takes with the preparation and presentation of each dish and ingredient is unlike any other and immensely appreciated by those looking to have a true culinary experience. We also did the wine pairing that was beautifully curated by the team’s somm, and I would highly recommend. Each wine offering enhanced every course by perfectly pairing the dish with wines that helped bring even more life into the experience with the various regions, notes and histories of the presented vineyards. We enjoy treating ourselves to experiences opposed to gifts, and we hit the nail on the head this year with...

11/16/24. We’ve had our share of big meals in Chicago (Smyth, Elske, Alinea, NEXT, Goosefoot, Acadia etc) but this experience is singular and special. It kinda reminded me of NEXT/ Childhood in terms of the fun factor. We just had a blast at Duck Sel! Foremost, the food was simply outstanding. In 15-courses at least 10 were thought-provoking and over the top delicious. A couple of dishes I’ll be thinking about for a long time to come (similar to my experience at Smyth). The environment was unique- we got lucky that the strangers at our table were chatty and interesting and it enhanced the meal to meet new folk and talk about the food/scene (at our seating the other table seemed more talkative only with the members of their own respective parties - which is fine obvi). And it was neat to be able to chat with chef and the team throughout the evening. My husband did the wine pairing and I did the NA cocktails; strategically we wanted more variety and I’m so glad we did because the mocktails were a highlight; a true beverage program it really enhanced the fun and taste factor. We...