The Best Thing We Ate Last Night: Handmade Pasta at Maison

By Sarah Freeman

Yes we were well aware it is August. We became even more aware when sweat was dripping down our back as we took a seat on a rose-colored couch at Maison – an upscale brasserie in the new Lakeshore East neighborhood with black lace light fixtures and a stunning view of the park.

Despite the heat last night, when we saw handmade pasta with braised rabbit tucked among the traditional French offerings on the menu, we knew we had to order it. The dish is served with mushrooms, pearl onions and a light Dijon sauce. The last thing we needed was to be warmed up by a plate of comfort food, but the heartiness of this dish made us forget for a moment about the sauna outside.

The fresh pasta was matched, but not overpowered by generous pieces of pulled rabbit that had an equally subtle yet savory flavor. Soft pearl onions and wilted greens contribute much-needed reprieve from the heavy entrée. Overall an excellent offering that will transition well into the cooler months of fall.