The Gage Fetes 5 Years with $5 Brews, Bourbon and 5-Course Menu

The Gage's Basil Escargot with goat cheese risotto arrives piping hot in a miniature cast iron pot. (Photos: Freddy Love)

Dirk Flanigan reflected fondly Wednesday night over the dish he believes nailed him the job as executive chef at The Gage:

"When I was auditioning at (owner) Billy Lawless' house, I made basil escargot with goat cheese risotto," he said. "I truly believe this was the dish that got me the job."

Five years later finds the creamy and decadent appetizer back on the menu in time for the award-winning Loop restaurant's anniversary celebration. And through July 12, guests will be able to order it as well as a number of specially priced a la carte dishes and libations.


The Gage's lamb chops done two ways: grilled and in a stew Vindaloo.

During the two-week promotion, they're also serving up commemorative beverages that are each priced at $5. Highlights include The Gage Single Barrel 9-Year Bourbon and Goose Island Luciana—a smoky, Belgian double created annually in collaboration with Goose Island Brew Master Jared Rouben.

See the entire anniversary menu below:

First

Speck Wrapped Smelt, Giardiniera ($11)

Second

Basil Escargot Goat Cheese Risotto ($16)

Third

Potato Salad Arugula, Cream Onion Dressing ($10)

Fourth

Sea Bream Oxtail, Pesto, Toast ($26)

Lamb Chops Stew Vindaloo ($32)

Fifth

French Toast Maple Gelée, Butter Foam, Maple Mousse ($9)