When I stepped in the front door of The City Club in Naperville, I was immediately taken in by the soft sound of the live jazz music coming from the bar and the smell of the wood burning fireplace in the center of the restaurant (hint: call ahead and ask to reserve the table right next to the fireplace!). I didn't to that, and unfortunately that table was already taken, so we were seated in a smaller room off to the side. What I really like about the layout of this restaurant is it's divided up into a bunch of smaller rooms, so it feels very cozy and private. Dividing it up like that also really helps keep the noise level down by blocking out the sound from the other tables, because there are only maybe 6-8 tables in each room. The decorating style was very impressive - reminiscent of a 40's or 50's ""men's club"" with all dark walls and dark furniture, and vintage black & white ratpack style photos on the walls. I had heard about the decor before I came, and honestly I was a little skeptical because I've been too many restaurants that way overdo it trying to replicate that kind of style, but this place is done perfectly. \r
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Now on to the food! We were a party of eight, and with that many people there's usually bound to be someone who doesn't like what they got, but that was definitely no the case at this place. I can't remember the last time everyone in our entire group was so happy with the quality of the food and the service. The menu has a very nice range of choices - from crab-stuffed tilapia to a monster 16 oz. filet mignon to large appetizer salads & sandwiches (portions here are very generous!). Everything we ordered arrived promptly and it was all prepared very well. I had a full-rack of ribs which cost just $19, and they were WAY better then most high-dollar steak houses where you'd pay $40+ for a full-rack! \r
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Overall I would give this place a 10+, two thumbs way up! I'd say it's even worth the drive to come out here from the city. Yeah, it's THAT good!
Pros: Large menu selection, excellent price, desserts are a MUST (taffy apple bread pudding!), decor is amazing, excellent sevice.
Cons: Honestly, none. Not even one. I was blown away by this place, and it is very reasonably priced!
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