A few weeks ago the PR team from Black Bull on Division Street invited me to come in and sample their cocktails - of course I had to say yes! I decided to stop in for Sunday brunch, as I had never tried their daytime menu - it was a good choice!!
Luckily the weather cooperated and it was a beautiful day so we got to sit on their patio, which is one of my favorites on Division Street. The service was good right from the very beginning, with the waiter doing a great job of explaining the cocktails and making some menu recommendations.
This is not a traditional brunch menu as it combines some of their regular dishes with some dishes that include eggs, though these also have a clear Spanish influence. You have the option of taps style, or large, more entrée like options. We choose tapas style!
For our first cocktails, we let the bartender, or mixolist pick; her choices were the Isle of Ibiza and the Picador. The Isle of Ibiza is cava combined with a hint of cinnamon and topped with Star Anise, which makes for a very refreshing drink.
The Picador is whiskey with muddled lime & mint. This was actually my favorite, which is saying a lot as I'm not much of a whiskey drinker. I would consider both excellent options for day drinking cocktails!
For our second tasting, we opted for the Bloody Mary; theirs are definitely not the run of the mill version. They are made with house mix which is gazpacho style and results in a very tangy flavor. They also include sherry and some tasty toppings. These are definitely one of my top Bloody Marys!
For brunch we started with the grilled octopus followed by the tuna tataki. Both were very good, however the stars of the meal were the Huevos Rotos - potatoes topped with egg, ham and truffle sauce - and the Flamenquines - breaded pork with Manchego, ham and garlic chips. Both were absolutely delicious!
We had to leave a little room for dessert, which was cheesecake made with Manchego cheese. I've seen a lot of cheesecake in this style lately, somewhat more creamy, less cake-like, and I have to say I'm a big fan.
I'd definitely recommend a visit for brunch or dinner; be sure to sample their cocktails, or try the sangria, which I've had on prior visits and is excellent!
Black Bull is located at 1721 West Division Street, Chicago
Cocktail samples were provided by Black Bull. Thoughts and opinions are my own.
Melissa Falk says
How is it that I have not found my way here yet? The drinks and food look great. Thanks for this recommendation. I love the Spanish influence. Two of my favorite restaurants in town are Salero and Mercat a la Planxa, both Spanish 🙂
FoodieGirlChicago says
If you like Mercat you should definitely give Black Bull a try!