Found Kitchen and Social House – Cozy Farm to Table in Evanston
By: Josephine Layug
Found Kitchen and Social House is a cozy farm to table gem in Evanston that’s perfect for a night out. I was ecstatic when I arrived to see that Found had developed an eclectic atmosphere with unique furniture and delicious food. Farm to table concepts are popping up all over the place and for good reason. We all know that food crafted with the highest quality ingredients yields the best possible dishes. These concepts also benefit local communities by buying from local farmers and producers.
The service at Found is top-notch, throughout the night I was treated like royalty. I watched as the staff, including Owner Amy Morton and Chef Nicole Pederson, worked the room by visiting patrons at their tables. Working in Hospitality has taught me a lot about service. I can confidently say this is a restaurant that checks all the boxes.
When we arrived at Found Kitchen we claimed a couple of stools at the bar. Perched up high in my trusty barstool, I watched as the skilled bartender as he mixed and shook tasty concoctions. The level of craftsmanship displayed at the bar was a nice change of pace from the usual beer-slinging bartender.
Upon finishing our libations, my guest and I ventured into the main dining area and nestled into a comfy love-seat for dinner. As a writer, my primary objective is to observe. Our seating arrangement perfectly complimented my voyeuristic intentions. From the middle of the restaurant I was able to do a little people-watching and a lot of plate-watching. Pro-Tip: If you watch enough plates you can order without looking at a menu.
Chef Nicole Pederson began our meal with Local Cheeses and House-made Butter and Jam. We devoured these delicious snacks. Subsequently, we were served a dish of Lamb Meatballs topped with Pistachio Chimichurri and Mint Yogurt. The combination of spicy Chimichurri and cool Mint Yogurt displayed the thoughtfulness of Chef Nicole’s cooking skillfully balancing the conflicting flavor profiles.
Twice Fried Chicken Wings doused in Honey, Lemon, and Smoked Chilies were simply bursting with flavor and therefore were one of our favorites of the evening. Although everything was delicious, most noteworthy was Grilled Flank Steak served with Harissa Roasted Brussel Sprouts. The Steak was topped with a spicy Chili Oil along-side Butterball Potatoes, this dish raised the bar. I am sucker for a perfectly-cooked Steak and Brussel Sprouts, due to this fact I may be a bit biased. Winter Squash with Cilantro and Pepitas was another delicious side that tantalized our tastebuds.
Found’s back room is perfect for private parties and is available for buy-outs, rather than just having dinner rent-it out. I am putting it on the top of my list for some birthday fun. Found Kitchen and Social House hosts a variety of events during the week. Tasting Menus, Burlesque Shows, and Live Jazz fill up the calendar, be sure to check those out.
Found Kitchen and Social House is located at 1631 Chicago Ave. Evanston, IL 60201 and is open for lunch Tuesday through Saturday from 11:30AM to 2:30PM. They are open for dinner from 5:30PM to 10PM Tuesday through Friday, 5:00PM to 11PM Saturday, and 5:00PM to 8:30PM on Sunday. In conclusion, when you need a break from busy downtown head to Evanston and visit Found. I guarantee you will enjoy your visit.