By Jae-Ha Kim
Chicago Sun-Times
August 18, 1999
Chicago Place, 700 N. Michigan, 8th fl.
(312) 751-7777
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday, noon-5 p.m.
Prices: entrees, $3.95-$5.85; side dishes, $1.25-$1.50; brownies, $1.50.
Credit cards: Transmedia. Delivery: $1.50, $10 minimum order. To-go charge: none.
Now called Pattie’s Quick & Lite, Pattie’s maintains the same concept that made it a favorite among hungry downtown folks – healthful, delicious food served at a relatively fast pace.
Located in the food court at Chicago Place, 700 N. Michigan, Pattie’s gives a fat and calorie count for each item on the menu. The food is colorful and, surprisingly, fits into the 1,200 calorie-a-day diets of many weight-conscious diners.
For me, a favorite to-go dish is the baked veggie focaccia sandwich ($5.65). The focaccia was still warm and crisp by the time I got back to work, and the aroma – grilled onions, eggplant, spinach, artichoke hearts, tomatoes, roasted peppers and low-fat mozzarella cheese – was to die for.
The complimentary chips got soggy, so you may want to ask for them in a separate container. The baked fries (75 cents to $1.50) fared better in the transport. Note to self: Order more fries next time.
If you like a little protein in your meal, give the Mediterranean chicken wrap ($5.75) a shot. It consists of a marinated grilled chicken breast with assorted veggies such as peppers, artichokes, lettuce and red onions rolled in a tortilla.
Another must is the Mediterranean salad ($4.95), which has a slightly tangy kick, thanks to the balsamic vinaigrette. Full of baby lettuce, roasted red peppers, cucumber, tomato, feta cheese and artichoke hearts, the salad was delicious, but not enough to fill me up for a proper lunch.
Which is where the smoothie ($3.25) came in. You can have them made with fruit and fruit juices. But I like the ones with frozen yogurt added. Approximately 280 to 320 calories each, the smoothie was a nice way to supplement my lunch and serve as dessert.
If you’re feeling truly decadent, the brownies ($1.50) and cookies ($1.10) are the way to go. Moist and freshly baked, they’re a nice way to cap off a healthful and, yes, satisfying meal.
