Clay Pot Rice in a Non-Asian Restaurant — Maxwells Trading 🍚

A friend recently recommended this new Asian fusion spot — opened by the former chef of Pacific Standard Time (remember that pink-hued restaurant?). Visited during its first week. 🍹 Tart (Non-Alc Drink) – Sharp and citrusy — lime peel “roses” were a cute touch. 🥓 Prosciutto & Gnocco Fritto – Similar to Adalina’s version, but with goat cheese (mild in flavor) instead of ricotta. 🍚 Clay Pot Rice – Chinese sausage, pork belly, tofu skin, kale, mushrooms — served with three sauces: soy, sriracha, and chili bean (tasted like Lao Gan Ma). Rice was soft, not crispy, no crust — tasty but not traditional. Chinatown does it cheaper. 🐟 Turbot in Beurre Blanc – Tender, buttery, with creamy potatoes — a highlight. 🍰 Earl Grey Tiramisu – Too sweet (American-style) — skip. 📚 Pop-Up Space in Back – Full of rare books, CDs, and local Chicago honey — worth a browse. Industrial-chic vibe, great service. The chef is half-Chinese, and the fusion feels natural, not forced. Definitely planning a return. 📍 Maxwells Trading 1516 W Carroll Ave, Chicago, IL 60607 #MaxwellsTrading #AsianFusion #ClayPotRice #ChicagoEats #WestTown #ChefOwned