Warlord is one of the most unique dining experiences we’ve had in Chicago. As we approached the glossy dark green exterior, it became clear this wasn’t going to be a typical restaurant. There isn’t even a sign or address on the building, giving it that “if you know, you know” secret-club vibe. Please note! They now do take reservations!!
The small waiting area continues the theme, with a longhorn steer skull and an abundance of plants creating an eclectic, understated atmosphere. We were seated right on time at comfortable bar stools overlooking the open kitchen—the best seats in the house for the culinary show.
The music was loud and energetic. It took a few minutes to adjust and find the right volume to carry on a conversation, but once we settled in, the live fire, smoke, and constant movement of the kitchen made for a captivating experience.
We started with the Murder Point oysters from Alabama. They were incredibly fresh and pleasantly briny, raised using a modern aquaculture approach, and needed nothing more than a squeeze of lemon.
The sugar cube melon with Benton’s country ham was refreshing with an unexpected depth of flavor, while the ocean trout was perfectly cooked. The dry-aged burger was also outstanding—simple, rich, and one of the better burgers we’ve had in Chicago.
While the volume of the music may be a drawback for some diners, we thoroughly enjoyed the evening. Warlord delivers an experience that’s every bit as memorable as the food itself, and it’s exactly the kind of place we’ll bring out-of-town guests who are looking for something distinctly Chicago. It was a great night.
Hands down one of the best restaurants in Chicago. The burger is easily one of the best I’ve ever had. I know some people may still bring up issues from the past involving the former chef, but he’s no longer with the restaurant, and the food speaks for itself.
If you’re going, you have to order the burger, the steak, the fries, and the oysters—they’re all outstanding. Honestly, the entire menu is worth exploring because everything is executed at a high level. Oh and the pasta feels so fresh that even better than Italy.
The reviews I read about Warlord were accurate. The burger was phenomenally juicy cooked to a medium doneness level. The non-alcoholic cocktail was also good. Our server, Samia, did a good job explaining the menu options. I have 2 minor gripes. I wish the music volume was a bit lower but I liked their picks. I wish there was more parking in the area.
The grilled oysters were so good ! And they had the freshest trout and prawns from Patagonia which melted in my mouth. Special mentions to the burger , it was hands down the best burger I’ve had in Chicago, and worth every penny! I’d be here to celebrate every occasion given the amazing waiting staff and cocktails! Hands down the place to experience in Chicago! Thanks guys for this wonderful experience :D
Good food, music insanely loud, service below average.
We went on a Friday night, table for 4, with reservation, and they made us wait for 20 minutes to get the table, with no apology (it can happen but at least some apology is expected).
Then we ordered some beers and one appetizer (Delice de bourgogne) which was good. We then waited over 30 minutes for our burgers, which was way too long, considering it was not even that busy at 8:30pm (no apology again). Despite that, the burgers were excellent, really good. We had 3 fries too, which were nice but one was incredibly salty, we couldn’t even eat it.
The atmosphere is really cool as the music mix but we sat towards the end of the place and the music was super loud, couldnt hear the waitress.
Overall, you have to try it once but it’s a good place to recommend in my opinion.
