Penumbra — Restaurant in Jefferson Township

HOW DOES THIS PLACE HAVE A FIVE STAR RATING?!?

I was super excited to book a reservation to Penumbra for my girlfriend's birthday. I made a note when I made a reservation that we were celebrating a birthday. We were sketched out before we even got there - the surrounding area was rough around the edges. When we entered (8pm on a Friday night) the lobby (?) area and bar were empty and quiet. They led us to the back of the restaurant and the atmosphere was so... kitschy? Tacky? I'm not sure it was just not tasteful. We were charmed initially by the private curtained tables but in the end we decided that it was entirely a gimmick. We ordered the small charcuterie board and we were relieved that we went with the small one rather than the full sized one. It came with olives, toasted bread, salami, Italian sausage, and four different types of what we assume is probably American cheese or cheddar with really off and strange flavors. There was a minty (?) cheese that was the color of Listerine and a ginger cheese that - after one nibble - we did not touch as it was pretty much inedible. The cheese was cut into big hunks and the presentation left something to be desired. Usually when you order a charcuterie board, you expect an attractive plate of cheeses but this was poorly crafted and we largely left it uneaten. We both ordered steaks and this was the most disappointing part as the cuts of steak were cheap and the flavors were offensive. It came with a small salad that I thought was okay but my girlfriend did not like as well as poblano mashed potatoes. We were given complimentary poblano potato soup prior to our appetizer and assumed that it must be leftover mashed potatoes turned into soup. It was not very good. We both didn't finish our entrees. The kind server was concerned and asked if we had an issue with our meal - which we did - but it was beyond saving. I don't mean to sound pretentious but if I'm spending $130 on a birthday dinner then I would expect something more than what Penumbra had to offer. They didn't even offer any kind of birthday treat or even wished my girlfriend a happy birthday even when I mentioned it to the server. I hope that anyone who hopes to bring their loved one out and considers Penumbra reads this review first. Don't make the same...

I was eager to return to Penumbra, as my experience last year was outstanding. Unfortunately, this Valentine’s visit significantly changed my perception of the restaurant.

Upon arrival, we were seated at a table, but I noticed that several private dining areas, which were separated by curtains, were unoccupied. I inquired with a staff member, who kindly said she would check availability and let us know. Our server, Jose, then brought us water, and we mentioned that someone was looking into seating us in one of the private areas. He abruptly interrupted us, almost yelling that no private areas were available and that they would never accommodate such requests unless noted in the original reservation. To our surprise the lady we asked for help turned out to be the owner, Rita. She returned and cheerfully informed us that private areas were indeed available and we could be seated there with absolutely no issue.

The next issue arose with my meal. I had been eagerly anticipating the shrimp dish, which I had thoroughly enjoyed my previous visit. When the dish arrived, I noticed it was missing the pineapple salsa I remembered from last time, which was still listed on the menu. When I asked Jose about this, he rudely cut me off, stating that the menu is constantly changing and that the salsa was no longer offered. His response felt extremely dismissive and uncomfortable.

Lastly, as we were leaving, we noticed a table with Valentine’s Day love coupons. We took one, only to be chastised by a staff member who informed us that the policy was one coupon per table. We were disappointed that we weren’t offered one initially. After clarifying that we had only taken one, another staff member contradicted this, saying that the coupons were no longer available. In addition to all of the aforementioned issues, we noticed upon reviewing our statement that the standard tip we left had been increased without our consent.

This experience was a stark contrast to what I had previously enjoyed at Penumbra and really soured what we thought was one of our favorite restaurants in Chicago. While Rita, the owner, is amazing and so kind, the behavior and attitude of the staff greatly detracted from what should have been a memorable...

Came here on May 12, 2024 for date night. This place has been voted the "Most Romantic restaurant in the country" so we wanted to see what this place is all about. We made reservations a month in advance and requested a cabana. We got there and the host takes us to their private dining area and sat us in the first cabana. Many reviewers have stated this as a private cabana but I would say this is definitely semi-private. The curtains have to stay partially open as we were told was a rule of the restaurant after asking if they could be completely closed. We had a family of four sitting at a table directly across from us - we could see them and they could see us. But at least, for privacy you have the space curtained off for yourself.

We had a friendly waitress and were pleasantly surprised by being served a potato poblano soup on the house. It had a great flavor and we enjoyed it. Next we ordered the Scallops D and the Creole Jalapeno Shrimp for appetizers. Both were good and we enjoyed them. Next came our meals which was the lobster and steak entree along with the Pork tenderloin entree. The portions are huge and the food had a good flavor.

There is ambiance here as the dining room is dimly lit and there are strings of lights decorated throughout also. No outside views from the dining area. They prefer cash and let that be known. For a fine dining establishment, I feel there is a way you can relay that discreetly without taking anything away from the experience as it can turn patrons off.

Okay, you can throw tomatoes at me for this next comment. Although we enjoyed ourselves and the food, hubby and I agreed that we don't feel this is the most romantic restaurant in the city, much less the country. We have been to many a fancy and upscale restaurant in and out of town. For us, the most romantic restaurant we have been to is right here in the heart of Chicago and that is Gibsons Italia - they have the gorgeous skyline views, romantic seating, waitstaff in classy suit jackets and food that's to die for. We wouldn't steer you wrong.

Thank you Penumbra for...