Somerset pairs polished style with modern American fare

The overall read

Somerset presents itself as a polished modern American restaurant with an upscale bar atmosphere. Based on its 4.4 Google rating from 1189 reviews and the supplied diner feedback, the restaurant’s strongest appeal is its ability to feel stylish without becoming overly formal. Reviewers describe a setting that works for meeting friends, planning a casual date or settling into Sunday brunch.

The tone appears lively but still comfortable, a balance that several diners appreciate. Design and ambiance earn more consistent enthusiasm than any single menu item. Somerset falls into the mid range, making it best suited to diners who care about the room and occasion as much as the meal itself.

Food and drinks

Food feedback trends positive, although it is not unanimous. Returning diners describe meals as fresh, flavorful, well prepared and consistently excellent. Another brunch visitor considered the food fair rather than memorable, suggesting that the kitchen may not land with equal force across every visit or service period.

Among the specific dishes mentioned, the filet receives the clearest praise. One diner liked the peppers served with the steak and said the filet would merit another order, though the portion felt small compared with other restaurants in the area. The octopus drew a sharply negative response from another reviewer, particularly on value and satisfaction. A burger appears only in connection with a billing mistake, so the supplied reviews do not provide a useful assessment of that dish.

Cocktail feedback is similarly limited. The Thyme Traveler was described by one guest as tasting too alcoholic. That is a matter of personal preference, but it indicates that guests who favor softer, more balanced drinks may want guidance from the bartender before ordering.

Service and accommodations

Service is generally characterized as friendly and courteous. Bartender interactions receive positive mention, and one guest with food allergies reported that the restaurant ultimately accommodated the restriction by checking with the kitchen. However, the server initially seemed unsure about ingredients. Diners managing serious allergies may need to ask detailed questions and allow extra time for confirmation.

There are also signs of inconsistency during busy periods, when servers can reportedly become difficult to locate. More concerning is one group’s account of several incorrect items appearing across separate checks, even while the restaurant seemed quiet. The checks were separated as requested, but multiple billing errors made the experience frustrating. Groups may want to review each bill carefully before payment.

Verdict

The public feedback points to a restaurant led by atmosphere, with a modern room that can elevate brunch, drinks or a relaxed date. Food quality is often praised, and the filet stands out in the limited dish-specific comments. Still, uneven portion perceptions, a poorly received octopus dish, occasional service gaps and the reported billing problems prevent an unqualified recommendation.

Somerset looks most convincing for diners seeking a fashionable but approachable Chicago setting and modern American food. Expectations should center on the complete social experience rather than guaranteed consistency from every plate or service interaction.