Oceanique

Oceanique: French tradition, American twist

If you love seafood and an atmosphere nothing shy of Paris, be sure to make a reservation at Oceanique, a small but elegant restaurant in Evanston.

Established in 1989, by Chef Mark Grosz, Oceanique, rapidly became known for its highly creative fresh seafood and meat dishes prepared in the French tradition with a contemporary American twist.

In addition to the restaurant’s exquisite meals, Oceanique is known for its wine cellar and this year was given “Best of Award of Excellence” and recognized as having one of the 750 best wine lists in the world by Wine Spectator Magazine.

Besides the food, what makes this storefront restaurant a gem is its size and ambience. The low-key and cozy Oceanique is unpretentious.

French posters cover the walls and soft fabric ripple across the ceiling. The setting’s simplicity helps make each serving a work of art. A small bar adds to the intimate atmosphere, as do the pillow-lined seating banquettes along the window.

If you like a bistro-feel, Oceanique fits the bill. Grosz’s menu constantly changes and entrees depend on the freshest seafood available. For the perfect meal, consult wine director Philip Andre for his advice on the perfect wine to pair with your food.

Among its most requsted appetizers when available is the seared day-boat sea scallops with blood orange, French green beans, red onion and Yuzu Marmalade ($16). Seafood entrees include Tasmanian sea trout ($34), wild Alaskan halibut ($35), wild Maine wkatefish $28) and bouillabaisse cacique ($27).

A $45 fixed-price menu is available upon request Monday through Friday. Seafood dishes depend on availability. A must-have for dessert is Oceanique’s Napoleon, voted in 1999 the top dessert in Chicago.