June Restaraunt

http://junerestaurant.com

Let me start this off by saying this place is unlike anyplace I've eaten in Peoria. The fish is brought in from Chicago and just about all of the ingredients are locally grown.

We arrived at about 5 after 5 yesterday and it was already booked solid. The maitre'd asked if we would like to eat at the bar, which we did. A very good move. The place was just about full by 5:30. A hint: if you don't have a reservation, shoot for Tuesday-Thursday, but eating at the bar was enjoyable for us.

Our bartender/server was very kind and knowledgeable. He told us that he used to be a wine salesman and had worked in eateries before but never as small as this one. He drives from Bloomington to work here. His excitement for this place was great. It wasn't a "I'll put on a show for a great tip" excitement, but genuine.

One of the things that jumps out at you is the fact that the kitchen is wide open. The owner/Chef spends time observing what is going on from a counter that faces the tables.

My wife went with a beet salad and a Morrocan seafood broth with mussells and shrimp. I went with occtopus served over beans with chorzio. The chorzio was made by our bartender during his day in the kitchen. I'm not a big bean connoseiur, but these were verrry unique. Dessert was Apple tart tatin and the warm chocolate cake. Both came with homemade hazelnut ice cream. "A taste explosion" was my wife's description of the meal.

Our bartender/server was attentive, even with the place hopping. This was a big night out for us since we haven't had a babysitter in about three months. He said there is also a 7 course tasting dinner, which I already put my dibs in for my birthday meal. He thanked us for "spending our date night" with them.

You can check out the specifics online. The menu changes monthly so some of the entrees listed aren't being served right now.

Dress code was from very casual to dressy. They are working on some sort of kids offerings. Don't expect chicken fingers. Due to the openess of the space, it gets pretty loud. Or maybe it was the 2 Erdingers I drank.

I'll be curious to see what Chef Kevin thinks.

If you're a meat and potatoes eater and are looking for a special meal, head to French Toast. Similar in price with more standard portions. If you're a chain restarunt person, don't bother. But if you're looking to expand your culinary horizons, this is the place for you.