WHISK Serves a Brunch Worthy of Ron Swanson

by Nicholas Kinports

Brunch classics in an eclectic Ukranian Village BYOB environment

Never miss an eat.

WHISK owners and brothers Rick and David Rodriguez are bringing their brand of American brunch cuisine with a Mexican twist to Ukrainian Village.

We sat down to try Rick and David's recommended brunch dishes.

The first thing you'll notice is the inescapable visage of Ron Swanson, a fictional character portrayed by Nick Offerman from the television series Parks and Recreation on NBC.

Ron Swanson Painting WHISK Chicago — An ode to Ron Swanson (Nick Offerman) hangs over the blackboard menu and register at WHISK.

BYOB is a straightforward affair thanks to the Mariano's located across the street.

Ron Swanson Paintings WHISK Chicago — It's hard to ignore the mighty mustachioed presence of Mr. Swanson.

Done staring at Mr. Swanson? Let's get down to business...

The extensive menu is divided into sweet, savory and sandwiches after 11am. We started with the Reese's sweet banana pancakes drowning in chocolate sauce and peanut butter cup crumbles.

WHISK Chicago banana pancakes — Banana pancakes with Reese's chocolate pieces covered with white chocolate sauce, fresh bananas and mocha mascarpone whipping cream

Next up, more sweet sweet goodness with salted caramel pancakes.

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WHISK Chicago caramel pancakes — Hotcakes with pretzel pieces covered with white chocolate sauce and caramel drizzle

On the savory side David's Special includes a flavorful mix of shrimp and cream sauce. This rich shrimp and grits treatment is really filling and has great potential as a sharing item for the table.

WHISK Chicago shrimp and grits David's Special — Sautéed garlic shrimp, bacon, mushrooms, scallions, wine and cream sauce served over cheesy grits

We love a good eggs Benedict, and WHISK delivers with multiple options. The crab Benedict is a classic execution with a spicy kick.

WHISK Chicago crab benedict — Spicy crab meat and poached eggs served on English muffin halves with red pepper hollandaise sauce, served with house potatoes

Continuing on the Benedict binge, the chorizo version includes avocado and queso fresco for a distinct Mexican flavor.

WHISK Chicago chorizo benedict — Two English muffin halves topped with chorizo, poached eggs, corn, avocado, queso fresco and chipotle hollandaise sauce, served with house potatoes

The Chilaquiles at WHISK come with one egg any style, sliced avocado and black beans.

WHISK Chicago Chilaquiles — Corn tortillas smothered in homemade salsa, grilled chicken, Chihuahua cheese served with one egg any style, sliced avocado and black beans

"WHISK is one part brunch, served daily from 7AM-5PM. Then from 5PM to close each night the restaurant transforms into WHISK BURGER, serving brunch favorites and cooked-to-order burgers. Several of the burgers can be ordered “breakfast style” upon request, as well."

After 11am guests are invited to dine on a lunch-focused portion of the menu. The house burger is spiced up with classic Mexican flavors and topped with tortilla strips.