Rose Mary menu overview
Nestled in Chicago’s vibrant Fulton Market District, Rose Mary serves a seasonal menu that captures the rustic yet refined essence of Adriatic cuisine. This Italian-Croatian gem offers an intimate dining experience where each dish is crafted to highlight fresh, high-quality ingredients and authentic regional flavors.
Starters and appetizers
Begin your meal with delicately prepared starters like the fresh tuna crudo, celebrated for its vibrant flavors perfectly balanced with fried capers that add a delightful crunch. The octopus arrives tender with a subtle char, showcasing masterful cooking that avoids any chewiness. For vegetable lovers, the cauliflower paired with a unique tonnato sauce—a rare and delicious combination—is enhanced by pickled raisins and fresh herbs, delivering a burst of complex tastes.
Enticing mains
Rose Mary’s mains are a standout, with offerings like the Tortellini Djuvec, filled with eggplant and preserved zucchini then finished with a luscious red pepper cream that elevates the dish without overpowering it. The Burek combines rich ground beef with mozzarella inside a perfectly baked pastry, delivering hearty satisfaction. Meat lovers will appreciate the Lamb with Blitva and Potatoes, where tender lamb joins the traditional Croatian blitva greens and comforting potatoes for a well-rounded plate. Pasta enthusiasts rave about the truffle-infused tagliatelle, praised for its perfect al dente texture and a fragrant, oil-based truffle sauce that is elegant yet unpretentious. The Beef Cheek Gnocchi also garners high praise for its rich, comforting flavors that linger.
Desserts and sweet treats
Conclude your meal with Rose Mary's signature Rosewater Fritule, delicate fried dough balls infused with fragrant rosewater for a light and aromatic finish. Another beloved dessert is the toffee cake, described as a warm caramel hug, complemented by a scoop of vanilla gelato and a refreshing blueberry lemon ginger sorbet that acts as the perfect palate cleanser.
Drinks and specials
The bar at Rose Mary complements the menu with a curated selection of wines and craft cocktails that highlight the region’s flavors and ingredients. Guests enjoy an industrial-chic ambiance with attentive service, making it a perfect spot for both casual dinners and special occasions. While the menu changes seasonally, specials often include fresh seafood and locally sourced produce, ensuring each visit offers something new and exciting.
Highlights to try
- Tuna crudo with fried capers – fresh and beautifully balanced starter.
- Tortellini Djuvec – eggplant and preserved zucchini in red pepper cream.
- Beef cheek gnocchi – rich, comforting, and highly recommended.
- Rosewater Fritule – aromatic fried dessert to end your meal.
