[Nicko]

Recently ate at Vie restaurant (www.vierestaurant.com) in Western Springs with my wife and a couple friends and had a fantastic meal. I started with the ricotta gnocci and for my entree I had the cassoulet which was a nice twist on the classic dish. It was served with some housemade garlic sausage, and it was very flavorful and the pork was so tender.

The dinning room is very white to say the least and not the warmest room I have ever been in but it was enjoyable none the less. The bar was very nice and had a fire place which was a nice touch. It has to been one of the nicest restaurant in this area by far and it is great to see a restaurant of this caliber outside the city.

I would highly recommend it.

Anyone else been there?

[crusso]

Can't say that I have, but I'll have to try it if I'm ever in the area.

If anyone out there is ever in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and you have lots of money just burning a hole in your pocket, you'll find some fabulous food and service at: The Compound, Geronimo's, and The Old House.

The plate presentations are as good as you'll find, beautiful and tasty...just a bit pricey. Get over the money part and you'll be able to enjoy a fabulous meal.

If you happen to be down the road about 60 miles (in Albuquerque), check out Le Cafe Miche, Graze, or for something a bit more New Mexican/Southwestern, (and very spicy / hot), go to Sadie's out on North Forth Street.

Take care

Chef Carmine