Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

London, England

Red Room

Copenhagen, Denmark

Delphine

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Chez Nina Green Brasserie

The most popular restaurants in Nova Circle right now

TRENDING NOW

Guide to

During Winter

Prague 

in Finland

The Northern Lights

Winter Edition

Paris

Best bars

New York Cities

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

On A Budget

5 Star Luxury Travel

You Must Visit

Eco-Friendly Hotels

Avoid Bali belly

How To:

That Are Worth The Trip

Dining Concepts

The World Is Slowing Down

Soft Travel

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Explore

Copenhagens Boutique Hotels

Discover

Tokyos best Ramen

Travel philosophy

The Rise of ‘Soft Travel’

Dublin Best Pubs

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

Chicago, IL

North America

United States

# Basil's Kitchen – Mediterranean restaurant, Chicago, IL, dining experience, community involvement, hotel restaurant

Basil's Kitchen, located in Chicago, IL, is a Mediterranean restaurant that offers a blend of Americanized fare and traditional dishes. Situated within the Embassy Suites hotel, it has become a convenient dining option for travelers and locals alike. The restaurant is known for its varied menu, which includes sandwiches, salads, and entrees that cater to diverse tastes. Despite mixed reviews, Basil's Kitchen has established a presence in the community, serving as a gathering spot for guests and a place to unwind after a long day. Its ambiance and offerings have made it a notable choice for those seeking a casual dining experience.

## History

### The story of Basil's Kitchen
Basil's Kitchen was founded with the vision of providing a comfortable and accessible dining experience for hotel guests and local patrons. The restaurant aimed to blend Mediterranean flavors with familiar American dishes, creating a menu that appeals to a wide audience. Over the years, it has become a staple for travelers seeking convenience without sacrificing quality.

### Milestones and growth
- Established as part of the Embassy Suites hotel chain.
- Expanded menu offerings to include both Mediterranean and American cuisine.
- Gained recognition for its ability to accommodate large groups, especially during conventions.
- Adapted its services and ambiance to enhance guest experiences over time.

### Cultural and local influence
Basil's Kitchen reflects the diverse culinary landscape of Chicago, incorporating Mediterranean influences while catering to the tastes of a predominantly American clientele. Its location within a hotel allows it to serve a variety of guests, from business travelers to families, contributing to the local dining scene by providing a casual yet inviting atmosphere.

### Continuing the tradition
As Basil's Kitchen continues to operate, it maintains its commitment to offering a welcoming environment for diners. The restaurant strives to uphold its founding principles by evolving its menu and services based on customer feedback, ensuring that it remains relevant and appealing to both new and returning guests.

## Community

### Community involvement
Basil's Kitchen actively participates in the local community by hosting events and accommodating large groups, particularly during conventions held at the Embassy Suites. This involvement fosters a sense of connection with the community and enhances its reputation as a friendly and accessible dining option.

### Community notion about the place
The community views Basil's Kitchen as a convenient dining choice, especially for hotel guests. While opinions on the food quality vary, many appreciate the restaurant's effort to provide a diverse menu and a relaxed atmosphere. It serves as a gathering place for both travelers and locals, contributing to its positive image within the neighborhood.

### Events and gatherings
Basil's Kitchen hosts various events and gatherings, making it a popular choice for networking and socializing. The restaurant's layout, featuring communal tables and a spacious dining area, encourages interaction among guests, particularly during happy hour specials. This communal aspect enhances the dining experience, making it a favored spot for informal meetings and casual get-togethers.

## Offerings

### What Basil's Kitchen offers
Basil's Kitchen offers a diverse menu that includes Mediterranean specialties and American favorites. Diners can choose from a variety of appetizers, salads, sandwiches, and entrees, catering to different tastes and dietary preferences. The restaurant aims to provide a satisfying dining experience for all guests.

### Dining and food experience
The dining experience at Basil's Kitchen is characterized by a casual and relaxed atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a range of dishes, from grilled chicken salads to hearty burgers. While some reviews highlight the quality of certain menu items, others indicate inconsistencies in food preparation and service. Overall, the restaurant strives to provide a pleasant dining environment for its patrons.

### Events and packages
Basil's Kitchen offers various packages and specials, particularly during happy hour. These promotions make it an attractive option for guests looking to unwind after a long day or network with colleagues. The restaurant's ability to accommodate large groups also makes it a preferred venue for events and gatherings.

### Facilities and features
- Spacious dining area with communal tables
- Bar seating for casual dining
- Happy hour specials
- Accommodations for large groups
- Convenient location within the Embassy Suites hotel

## Pros and Cons

### Key insights from reviews
Reviews of Basil's Kitchen reveal a mixed bag of experiences. While some guests praise the convenience and atmosphere, others express dissatisfaction with food quality and service. The restaurant's location within a hotel contributes to its appeal, but the dining experience can vary significantly.

### Compliments and strengths
Many reviewers commend Basil's Kitchen for its friendly service and accommodating staff. The restaurant's ability to handle large groups and provide a comfortable dining environment is often highlighted. Additionally, certain menu items receive positive feedback, indicating that when executed well, the food can be enjoyable.

### Contrasts and notable mentions
Contrasting opinions emerge regarding the food quality, with some guests reporting excellent meals while others describe their experiences as subpar. Issues such as inconsistent service and food preparation have been noted, suggesting that the restaurant has room for improvement in these areas. Notably, the ambiance and communal layout are frequently praised, contributing to a positive overall experience despite the food-related critiques.

### Summary evaluation
In summary, Basil's Kitchen offers a convenient dining option for hotel guests and locals alike. While the restaurant has its strengths, particularly in service and atmosphere, it faces challenges in consistently delivering high-quality food. Guests seeking a casual dining experience may find value in what Basil's Kitchen has to offer, but should be prepared for potential variability in their meals.

## Location & Nearby Attractions
Basil's Kitchen is conveniently located at 5500 N River Rd, Rosemont, IL, just outside of Chicago. This prime location allows easy access to various attractions, including the nearby Donald E. Stephens Convention Center and the Rosemont Theatre. The area is known for its vibrant entertainment scene, making it an ideal spot for visitors attending events or exploring local attractions. The restaurant's proximity to the airport also adds to its appeal for travelers.

## FAQs

**What type of cuisine does Basil's Kitchen serve** Basil's Kitchen offers Mediterranean and American cuisine.

**Is Basil's Kitchen suitable for large groups** Yes, the restaurant can accommodate large groups, especially during events.

**Are there happy hour specials at Basil's Kitchen** Yes, the restaurant offers happy hour specials for guests.

## Visit Basil's Kitchen Today
Basil's Kitchen invites you to experience its diverse menu and welcoming atmosphere. With a blend of Mediterranean and American dishes, it serves as a convenient dining option for hotel guests and locals. The restaurant's community involvement and commitment to providing a pleasant dining experience make it a noteworthy choice for those seeking a casual meal in Chicago. Whether you're in town for business or leisure, Basil's Kitchen is ready to serve you.

c40606de-ad77-4f18-ac69-6094606ad287

Lol! I'm laughing because whoever wrote the menu is super clever. The menu says, house-made fries with a trio of dipping sauces. The sauces are - housemaid ketchup with spicy herbs, garlic aioli, and green goddess dip. What we got was: Ore Ida French fries cooked in Wesson oil with Heinz ketchup sprinkled with parsley, Kraft Mayo, and Kraft Mayo dyed green. Suffice it to say, I canceled my chicken Caesar salad. That was a 15 min wait because the waiter was acting like sommelier with a $5 red wine to the table next to us. I had to get up and remind to cash me out.

46a1d59a-f4a4-447f-888a-76a79f54fb3a

I decided to eat at the hotel's restaurant instead of heading out and looking for a restaurant. Yes, I know, hotel restaurants are not always the greatest, however, I was pleasantly surprised. The server had greeted shortly after I sat down. The restaurant was not busy so I was able to grab a time right away. I decided to try the BBQ Burger with Fries. Within 10 minutes, the meal was delivered. The fries were okay, however, the burger was excellent with the sweet BBQ sauce on it. The decor was okay while the noise level was very quiet even though the dining room was busy. Enjoy a great meal in a relaxing atmosphere.

194abb3b-d02d-45cb-b863-8ad986b8ddff

Ordered the grilled chicken and baby greens salad and a side of asparagus with balsamic vinaigrette. Heathy lunch alternative for business travelers. Greens were fresh, chicken was not too dry. The asparagus was boiled and a bit flavorless but it was healthy. At lunch there is only one waitress who has to walk back and forth a long path to the kitchen so wait times may be slow. At night this restaurant becomes a great place to network due to their happy hour specials and open layout. More staff working as well. It's a large environment with communal tables so that you can see people and decide who to talk with. Some tables have charging outlets for phones, laptops. A good, affordable place to stay for week long conventions.

06c9c989-5909-4377-a80e-e71980457913

Basil's restaurant no longer exists. Replaced by Slyce...a coal-fired oven pizza and Italian style food place.

0cee4c36-eaf0-4b35-9d7a-2e4a98bc790c

My husband and I were in town recently for an event put on by an organization that he is a part of, and we stayed at the Embassy Suites. After we checked in to the hotel, we decided to grab a bite to eat for a light lunch. Basil's Kitchen is located right off of the main lobby of the hotel (very convenient), so we decided to check them out. Basil's is classified as a Mediterranean restaurant, but they have Americanized fare as well. So there should be no problem finding something on the menu that you'll like. We took a seat at the bar and were greeted promptly by the bartender. Our drink orders were placed, and after perusing the menu, we decided on what to order for food. We started out with an appetizer of the mozzarella sticks. They are wrapped in wontons, and were cooked just right (not overdone). For my meal, I chose the calamari appetizer, and was impressed with how much there was. One could easily make a meal out of this appetizer alone. The calamari was fried without being overdone, and came with a side of lemon and dipping sauce. My husband ordered the Basil's Signature Burger. It comes with bacon, tomato, grilled onion, and cheddar cheese. I was able to take a bite of it, and can confirm that it's delicious. The only issue that came up was at the end, when we received our bill. Upon checking in on Yelp, a check-in offer for a free appetizer came up. Of course, we wanted to use it. The bartender wasn't aware of this offer, so she went and got the mananger. He looked into it, and said that the Yelp offer was not listed among their discounts in their computer. However, he went ahead and honored it, which we really appreciated. To sum things up: we had a good overall experience here, and would definitely return.

a336f8ad-f338-48a2-ae27-e9a8736577b5

You remember the game where you put on a blindfold and try to pin the tail on the donkey? Well, Basil's kitchen has the same game where a guy puts on a blindfold and hat and pretends he's a chef. Hit or miss folks. Hit or miss. I decided to keep it safe and order the shrimp scampi appetizer and the Northern Bean soup based on the reviews that were positive. It took about 10 minutes to get the waiter's attention - 'service' is such a vague word for Basil's. He placed a very messed up bowl of soup in front of me (see pict). He warns me that the soup was very hot - I take a small spoonful - ice freaking cold. So back it goes. It didn't taste bad, the blindfolded 'chef' doesn't know how to work a microwave. Cold bowl of soup is followed by the oddest shrimp scampi I've seen. 4 shrimp and a soggy loaf of something in the center that I think was supposed to be a representation of 'Bruschetta'. Not even remotely close. I just spent $17 for 4 shrimp and a Coke. Seriously - $17....that's a pretty good stiffin' by a blindfolded chef - wanna - be. Good one Basil's!! Let's see how many other unsuspecting hotel guests you can fool after they read this review.

fc354ac8-6977-4861-af44-cb4138d414c0

I brought a group here from the convention when we were in search of food. They were able to accommodate all of us with no advance notice, which was great. Like everywhere in this area, this place is overpriced. Service was awesome. I first ordered the steak, rare. It came out with roughly the consistency of boot leather. Almost impossible to cut with the steak knife, much less actually chew. It was, I think, the worst steak I had ever had in my life. I know it's a hotel restaurant, but for $30, I expect more. However, the waiter was willing to send it back, and I ordered the chicken BLT instead. The chicken BLT was delicious. So, even though it's a bit overpriced, I'm still giving this place five stars for fixing my dinner and getting me something tasty.

ae0117a0-b03d-40e1-bc2d-06d2914e5f69

I ate here twice while I was staying at the Embassy Suites and it was fairly decent in regards to the food while the diners I was with were less than complimentary about their meals. The first night I ordered the Apricot Glazed Pork Tenderloin, with polenta and veggies. I was really pleased! The pork came as four medallions each a generous size, the polenta was great while the veggies were so so. I didn't really taste the apricot glaze coming through but it was still tasty. At $26 it was well overpriced but that's hotel prices right?! The espresso I finished with was not good, bordering terrible, although they did fashion some crema. The second night I ate at Basil's I had the Scallops Mornay app. This was really really good. I'm usually opposed to the concept of seafood and cheese but the cream sauce had a great balance and the grilled baguette was a nice addition to the texture and presentation. Service was hit and miss. The first night impeccable and the second not so much. In a pinch this joint will do but with all the spots nearby like Gibson's, Morton's, etc. etc. etc., if you want something phenomenal you'll need to leave the hotel grounds.

ec385033-ffc0-4c03-867f-8c26a26a2753

Back in Chicago again, this time I ordered the Steak Vesuvio....its a strip steak that is flashed seared (read Rare) and then sauteed in olive oil and garlic. ($26). Really tender and juicy, but then again its a rare steak. The garlic was an essence so it did not over power the beefiness of the steak. The roasted potatoes was awesome, Beef Tips(appetizer $8) ; tender bite size portions of beef with mushrooms served with crumbled blue cheese in a rich cabernet sauce...really worth the money, you get a good size portion.

876fea2e-474d-4493-a534-236428151bc5

Feels like a flashback to a seedy diner in Las vegas, you know the one you end up at for some reason around 4am because you friend wants a late night 2nd dinner. The food is mediocre at best, the decor is 80s. Blank walls, no music, , everything just says Blah. Staying at the embassy suites, they decided to host people here instead of the super nice atrium. The hotel is making a huge mistake cattling people into this dingy cafe.

Discover Basil's Kitchen in Rosemont, IL—an inviting restaurant offering delicious cuisine just minutes from Chicago. Book your table today and indulge in a memorable dining experience.

Basil's Kitchen in Rosemont - Delicious Dining Near Chicago

Rosemont

Basil's Kitchen

Illinois

Enjoy authentic flavors at Basil's Kitchen in Rosemont, Chicago. Perfect for family dinners, date nights, and special occasions. Book your table now!

Basil's Kitchen in Rosemont, Chicago - Delicious Dining Experience

Discover the story behind Basil's Kitchen in Rosemont, Chicago. A local favorite serving up delicious dishes in a cozy atmosphere. Learn more today!

About Basil's Kitchen, Rosemont - Your Favorite Chicago Restaurant

Opening hours for Basil's Kitchen, Rosemont, Chicago. Find opening hours for Basil's Kitchen, Rosemont, Chicago on 5500 N River Rd.

Basil's Kitchen Menu Overview

Signature Dishes

Beverages and Pairings

Dietary Options

Chef Recommendations

Experience the Menu at Basil's Kitchen

CTA - Rosemont

Rosemont Theatre

Carmine's Rosemont