If you just can’t tear yourself away from all the wonderful art or want to have an enjoyable alfresco dining experience, go down to lower level. Tucked away on the west side you will find a hidden oasis where from late May through early fall, weather permitting, the Garden Restaurant extends into McKinlock Court. Green umbrella-topped tables are set around the splashing "Fountain of the Tritons" by Carl Milles creating a cool, elegant atmosphere for a chilled drink or a hot meal.
There are some tasty sounding choices for light snacks or full lunches. The menu runs the gamut from straight-up (grilled London broil) to more adventurous (salmon–bacon sandwich with sugar-cured smoked salmon, homemade guacamole, lettuce, tomato,and herb-lemon mayonnaise). I wanted something light this warm July afternoon & chose a Baked Pear Tart & Spinach Salad with pecorino Romano cheese & candied walnuts topped with sesame-lime dressing at just $7.95.
Preferring red wine, I chose a glass of Côtes-du-Ventoux for $6.50. The wine was surprisingly light in body & had a snappy acidity. It was a natural with my salad, which was just the right size for a satisfying meal in a refreshing atmosphere to allow me to continue my art-quest for the rest of the day.
Thursdays in the summer, jazz music floats up from the Garden Restaurant, where a full bar & special restaurant menu contribute to appreciation of the live entertainment. There is no cover charge or minimum, but tables are reserved for restaurant service. No tickets necessary.
When you finish your repast, remember to look up & then go up to west wall of the McKinlock upper level gallery where you will find the gorgeous sapphire-hued stained-glass America Windows. These were designed by Marc Chagall to commemorate America’s bicentennial in memory of Mayor Richard J. Daley, the present mayor’s deceased father.