Autre Monde Cafe & Spirits

Autre Monde Cafe & Spirits Restaurant Review:

This neighborhood gem, set amid a sea of Czech spots, is a breath of fresh air --- and not just for Berwyn, where it resides. A collaboration between Spiaggia alums John Aranza and Christine Tully Aranza, and chefs Dan Pancake and Beth Partridge, Autre Monde Café & Spirits has Mediterranean roots that run as deep as the cooking’s bold flavors. Some communal dining gives way to intimate tables; at both, couples and pals connect over sharable plates. Among them are mussels in saffron broth. Striking in its simplicity, burrata is served with prosciutto and arugula pesto. We also suggest the serve-yourself lasagna Bolognese for four and the apple wood-smoked lamb shank, which diners carve from the bone and pair with scoops of ultra-creamy polenta. The quirky, smart wine list is filled with atypical sips, perhaps a fall-season rosé. Meanwhile, surprisingly light chocolate mousse delivers comfort and decadence at once.