Hyde Park Welcomes Park 52: 3.5 Stars

5201 S. Harper Ave., Chicago (52nd & Harper)

By Neonu

Marc Brooks and Jerry Kleiner opened Park 52 in Hyde Park last week. The Southside residents I spoke with already consider it a very welcome addition to the neighborhood. Brooks and Kleiner also own Room 21 (3 Stars). When I asked Brooks what diners could expect from his restaurants, his response was, "Good quality food at an affordable price in a cool atmosphere."

Kleiner owns several other Chicago restaurants, including and Opera (4 Stars), in the South Loop, and Carnival (3 Stars), in the Warehouse District. If you have dined at any or all of these restaurants, then you know what to expect of the d��cor at Park 52. Yes, here also you will find bright, vibrant colors and patterns on the walls, chairs, and, of course, the signature grand, textured light fixtures.

Carnivale features Latin cuisine, Opera features modern Chinese, and Room 21 offers upscale contemporary American cuisine. Park 52 serves classic American. A few folks at the bar recommended the whitefish and rock shrimp. The prices are much more reasonable at Park 52 then at its upscale cousin Room 21. Although there are dishes on the menu priced similar to those at Room 21, you will get a lot more food for your money at Park 52.

This past Friday night the place was packed. The tables were 80% full and the bar was standing room only. There was a wait at the bar to be served by the bartender. However, I would expect this to improve as management better anticipates the size of the bar crowd on various nights.

The patrons at Park 52 were a reflection of the diversity of this University of Chicago neighborhood. Overall, I enjoyed my evening at this new Hyde Park Hot Spot. 3.5 Stars; $$