Introduction to The Tasting Room at CMB
AVONDALE — A Chicago chef has expanded his Avondale catering operation with an adventurous Sunday brunch service that he said may turn into a daily offering in the fall. Chef Mychael Bonner, who opened CMB Catering in 2023 at 2853 N. Kedzie Ave., began offering sit-down brunch on Sundays inside the Avondale spot in February, with a focus on the Afro-Caribbean flavors of his heritage.
The Concept and Expansion Plans
Called The Tasting Room at CMB, Bonner said the concept has taken off, and he hopes to expand it this fall. He and his team plan to move the catering business to another location in the coming months, freeing up room to offer brunch daily in the 60-seat restaurant, he said.
Menu Offerings
The Tasting Room at CMB offers a blend of Afro-American influences with classic brunch favorites, including shrimp and grits, chicken and waffles and fried green tomato Benedict. Bonner is particularly excited about some of the restaurant’s specialty dishes, such as breakfast jollof, a West African rice dish with Spam and a fried egg; harissa-braised king trumpet mushrooms with fufu; and black-eyed akara pea fritters, which has Brazilian origins.
Afro-Caribbean Flavors and Inspiration
“I’ve been focusing on Afro-Caribbean flavors, doing a deep dive and understanding what the diaspora cuisine across the Caribbean looks like,” Bonner said. “Chicago is becoming a mecca for food, and Chicago [has] great chefs and wonderful, different cuisines. I think this genre also speaks to the melting pot of the city.”
Chef Mychael Bonner began offering sit-down brunch on Sundays at 2853 N. Kedzie Ave. with a focus on Afro-Caribbean flavors, like the West African fufu paired with a Bloody Mary. Credit: Sandy Noto
Menu Variety and Popularity
Some dishes, like the fufu and coconut rice pancakes, are vegetarian and gluten-free. The menu also features weekly seasonal items and cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks to pair with brunch. “The fufu, you’d be surprised how often people are ordering that out of curiosity,” he said. “All of the items under the specialty entrees are popular among adventurous guests who are seeking something full of flavor and different.”
Chef Mychael Bonner’s Background
Bonner’s culinary background includes 32 years with restaurant group Lettuce Entertain You, during which time he opened Maggiano’s Little Italy, DiPescara, Saranello’s, Ivy Room at Tree Studios, B Square Pizza and Reel Club Restaurant.
Location History
The Kedzie Avenue building was previously home to Con Todo Cantina y Cocina Mexican restaurant, which closed after a year in 2022. Before that, it was a popular brunch spot called Jam, and before Jam, it was the Japanese restaurant Yusho.
Brunch Availability
Sunday brunch at The Tasting Room at CMB is available 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Conclusion
The Tasting Room at CMB offers a unique and exciting brunch experience, with a focus on Afro-Caribbean flavors and a blend of classic brunch favorites. With plans to expand to daily service in the fall, this Avondale spot is definitely worth checking out for adventurous foodies and anyone looking to try something new.
FAQs
- Q: Where is The Tasting Room at CMB located?
A: The Tasting Room at CMB is located at 2853 N. Kedzie Ave. in Avondale. - Q: What type of cuisine does The Tasting Room at CMB offer?
A: The Tasting Room at CMB offers Afro-Caribbean flavors with a blend of classic brunch favorites. - Q: Is The Tasting Room at CMB open daily?
A: Currently, The Tasting Room at CMB is only open for Sunday brunch, but plans to expand to daily service in the fall. - Q: Are there vegetarian and gluten-free options available?
A: Yes, some dishes like the fufu and coconut rice pancakes are vegetarian and gluten-free.
