Lucky Duck

Very clear that this is in its first few weeks and a work in progress. I want them to be successful but we didn’t have time to debrief this as dinner for 3 took 90 minutes before we had to dash for a commitment. The waiter and host were excellent. The food and service cadence were mixed. The black painted walls engulf rather than engage. The chime when the front door opens sounds like a dry cleaner rather than a dining experience. And the contrasting party room is wide open to the restaurant side, not quite a yin yang. The manhattan transfer cocktail got a thumbs up. The nearly winter one less so. The first few dishes came on strong - the deviled eggs were enjoyed quickly, the bulgogi fries were just the right crispness and balance, and the duck wontons were flavorful. Then like a record scratch everything stopped. The group in the party room was clearly being served. Nobody was getting food in the restaurant. Then every table got dishes all within a few minutes. The big pig bao and sesame mushroom bao came out over sauced. The chicken and egg rice bowl had several issues. We ordered kimchi on the side yet the dish was still quite spicy. The pickles weren’t evident. And the rice was basmati, not typical for a rice bowl, too thin and delicate to stand up to the proteins. The online menu lists four or five things that were not on the printed restaurant menu last night. Presumably the kitchen is still ramping up. I do wish them well and hope we can make it back to check on these.

First trip to Lucky Duck, which opened 2 weeks ago. Tiny space, which feels like a speakeasy. Just 5 tables and 7 seats at the counter. No reservations. The food is American with a heavy Japanese influence. We have literally ordered half of the menu and there was not a single item, which we did not like! The combination of flavors is truly amazing. There's a cocktail, beer and wine list. You can also bring your own wine with $10 corkage (it's a sister restaurant to The Gallery after all). Very highly recommended

Amazing! Every dish! Brussel sprouts. Lamb chops. Shrimp tempura. Teriyaki beef bun. Everything was incredible. Everyone needs to find this gem. BUT. It’s really small. Be prepared to wait but worth it.

Absolutely amazing food! Unique flavors very good drinks! Appetizers are delicious and the buns are amazing. I’ve tried them all and wish i had gotten seconds on them all. Definitely a must try if you’re in Lake forest.

Fabulous small plates. The wagyu sliders, duck wontons, chicken karaage, and tempura shrimp were our favorite, but everything was good. Plus, a nice whiskey selection. For bonus points, there is a “Chicago Handshake “ available for $7.