18 November 2021
Had an absolutely terrible day at work on what was already a poor week. My mind needed to unwind even though it is a Thursday. I decided to check out nearby Peoria Heights, where some of the area’s best eateries and boozers are located. Not great for a Thursday, but had to be done.
A quick pick-me-up at a local tavern, then I wandered down the street to Hearth. Unlike that wonderful restaurant of the same name I used to love in NYC, this place takes its influence from New Orleans. Interesting menu with lots of attention grabbers, so I ordered quickly as I enjoyed sitting at the bar with a nice drink.
It’s quieted down a little as it’s not as early as I usually eat these days, so it was nice to chat with the bartender and others through the evening. Soon my starter arrived, the grilled oysters.
Quite nice. Not quite as awesome as at Drago’s in New Orleans, but it certainly does its job. And to continue on my recent lamb streak, here’s more…
Again, done quite nicely, perhaps not as excellent as at Connected across town, but far better than many of the East Coast places that serve “lamb” that has been neutralised to the point of death by blandness. So a good dinner over all!
I think Hearth is a place I can return to many times, as there are so many dishes that appealed to me, so I’m glad to find a good eatery just minutes from my place. I just wish there was a proper bus line (and sidewalks!) so I don’t need to drive and can let loose a little — on a weekend!
Recommended!
Hearth
4604 North Prospect Road
Peoria Heights, Illinois
PS: I’m rather glad I had to drive which meant I kept the booze limited — which also ensured I could function on a busy Friday at work!