Ditch the sandwiches, wraps and subs — portable eats have gotten a European makeover as new River North spot Bel 50 has re-imagined hand-held dining.
Rather than putting delicious sandwich fixings between the oh-so-predictable slices of bread, Bel 50 owner Tim Jandovitz and chef Joey Altman stuffed them into a light, fluffy Belgian waffle. The menu of sweet and savory options fills you up without weighing you down, registering at a mere 220 calories per waffle — and that’s not including the low-fat and gluten-free options available.
Step up to the counter and choose from savory flavors like the slow-braised short rib with horseradish crëme fraíche ($8.95) or the crunchy buttermilk fried chicken with honey-mustard glaze and slaw ($7.95). Or drop by for breakfast options — served all day — like fresh scrambled eggs topped with Cheddar cheese ($4.50). From breakfast to dessert, each concoction is served up on a light, crispy waffle designed to be a less sweet, more healthful version of the Belgian variety.
If you can’t let go of the fork and knife, dig into dishes such as the chopped veggie salad with corn, cucumbers, tomatoes, toasted almonds, goat cheese and avocado ($8.95).
Don’t leave without trying one of the sweet options such as the s’mores ($6.95), which stacks the chocolate, marshmallow and chunks of graham crackers between three layers of waffles.
Not every Sunday can be a day of rest, but that doesn’t mean your stomach has to suffer. So take a break during the busy holiday season and order up a meal that’s a little more memorable.
Open Monday to Thursday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday 11 a.m. to midnight, Saturday 8 a.m. to midnight and Sunday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. 738 N. Clark; Bel50.com
—Madeline Skaggs
