Dell' Rooster Restaurant & Bar — Restaurant in West Chicago Township

Recently I went to Dell’ Rooster and was very surprised and beyond satisfied with my meal and experience there. My friend and I went for my birthday lunch and without sounding like a stuck up ahole, we’re foodies that pay attention to the little things.

Ricardo was our waiter and he was fantastic. We had a few questions about menu items which we helped us with and made recommendations based on our thought of the lunch (we preferred to share vs having our own entrees).

We ended up getting: Coffee - brewed with some cinnamon and piloncillo and kept hot in a clay pot, this is some of the best coffee in Chicago hands down. Sweet but not overpowering and so much flavor.

Ropa Pal’Viejo - which was fantastic! Very flavorful and a great sharing dish (4 pieces).

Chicken and Waffles - which the first time around was ok, the chicken was breaded and fried ok but there was a lack of flavor, also the waffles were fine, just normal belgian style waffles, the side salad was the best part.

When Ricardo came by to ask about the dish we reluctantly told him our feedback which was: it was good but we were expecting a similar flavor punch as the Ropa Pal’Viejo. To which he responded by checking in with the cook to get us answers and then bringing it up to the head chef who had come in between the start of our meal and then. We then got a visit by the head chef Carlos who apologized and gave us a detailed explanation of what happened (new cook in his first week & differences in their specific process and the cooks) and Carlos promised us next time they’d make us the chicken and waffles the correct way since that’s the dish they’re known for. We just didn’t expect that next time would be 15 minutes later. The second Chicken and Waffles was a night and day difference, there was so much more flavor in the chicken, breaded much better, and overall it had the punch they promised. The waffles were better as well, the pearl sugar cubes really stood out and it was just an elevated waffle.

During that time we got dessert - Coconut Flan with caramel popcorn (handmade) and Chocolate Tres Leches cake: which was really well done, not too sweet but had great chocolate flavor. And the coconut flan reminded me of Cuban grandmothers’ in south Florida (I’m originally from Florida) flan.

We were already blown away with the meal but were even more blown away by the attention to detail and passion that both Ricardo and Carlos showed. When we gave our feedback my friend and I weren’t expecting anything other than them listening...but for them to almost seem insulted and then super determined to change our experience and perception that was so refreshing to see.

Chicago has become a sea of hospitality group joints with good food and good service but little authenticity and deep care of experience (that could be because of a lot of things) but to see a team like Carlos and Ricardo put so much love and care into a simple lunch meal for a friend and I was truly memorable and impactful. If it’s not easily apparent I’ll be back to Dell’ Rooster and will be bringing friends to experience this...

Positives: -The cornbread was absolutely delicious. -The plantains were tasty. -The bacon-wrapped dates were exactly as I expected, yum! -The server was 100% attentive to our needs and ensured the courses arrived at the table at the right time. -The outdoor seating was pleasant, though slightly noisy, which wasn't their fault. -They accommodated our request for a mocktail.

Areas for Improvement (from our non-restaurant owning perspective):

-The papas bravas, pork chop, and banana cream dessert were all underwhelming. -The potatoes could have been crispier; they were served warm but soft and lacked spiciness. -The pork chop was overcooked and dry (ordered medium, came out well-done). -The bacon-wrapped dates, potatoes, and pork chop were placed on a red sauce that could have been omitted. -The banana cream dessert was the biggest disappointment of the night. The Oreo crust was mediocre, and the cream layer had no flavor - neither fresh cream nor bananas. It was an odd experience to have something so visually creamy taste so flavorless. The top layer seemed like cool whip with three slices of plantain on it.

We chose this place based on its 5-star rating, but we also set realistic expectations to avoid disappointment. However, nothing I ate compelled me to consider a return visit solely for that dish. The cornbread came closest to being exceptional. Therefore, a $145 bill (including tip) for two people did not feel justified.

While the food didn't meet my expectations, I want to emphasize that the service was outstanding. Your experience with the food might differ, so it could still be worth a visit. Other people seem to...

Living in Uranian Village, I've had my fair share of restaurant options, but it was Dell Rooster that truly captured my heart. I can't believe I drove past this gem for weeks without stopping, and now I'm wondering why I waited so long.

On a sunny Sunday morning, I finally made my way over, and let me tell you, today was the day. This charming neighborhood spot had it all - warm service and welcoming management that made my heart feel full.

The brunch menu was nothing short of amazing, and if you find yourself here, do yourself a favor and order the ROPA PAL’ VIEJO. The way they prepared, seasoned, and presented this oxtail appetizer was nothing short of breathtaking. The flavors were perfectly balanced, and I'll be singing its praises for a long time to come. The Papas Bravas were equally impressive, and I finished off with a steak salad that was cooked to perfection.

There's a reason Dell Rooster has a 5-star Yelp review, and it shines through in every bite of their food. Every element of my brunch experience at Dell Rooster was spot on. I'm already counting down the days until I can return to try their dinner offerings. Whether you're looking for a solo dinner, a romantic date night, or anything in between, trust me, you won't be disappointed.

Take my word for it and treat your taste buds to an unforgettable experience at...