DEKA Restaurant: A Delicious Discovery in Wheeling

A brand-new, delicious dining experience has recently opened in the Chicago suburbs.  DEKA Restaurant, a French Brasserie in Wheeling, has taken occupancy in the former Edwardo’s Pizza location on the southeast corner near the intersection of Dundee and Milwaukee Roads. 

DEKA has transformed into a beautiful, posh restaurant that seats 100 people and features a mouth-watering menu created by Chef Michael Richie.  DEKA offers the largest selection of vodka on the North Shore, over 50 varieties from around the world. It also showcases many house-infused vodkas with unique combinations such as horseradish and honey, along with a full-service bar with a comprehensive wine list and specialty cocktails. 

Throughout the restaurant their walls are adorned with artwork from local artists that are available for purchase. 

Tomorrow and Saturday night, celebrate the grand opening of DEKA’s enormous outdoor patio that can easily seat over 75 people.   Each evening, beginning at 5 pm, enjoy half-priced appetizers including Napoleon Bruchetta, Chicken Pelmeni (dumplings), Oyster Shooters, Dungeness Crab Cakes, Roasted Helix Escargot, a Charcuterie and Fromage plate, Hudson Valley Foie Gras, and Oysters on the Half Shell.

DEKA will feature live music both evenings beginning at 7 pm. On Friday, the smooth jazz sounds of Roy McGrath will fill the air and on Saturday, saxophonist extraordinaire Skinny Williams will grace the patio.

Chef Michael Richie was on the ABC 7 Morning Show with Stacey Baca last Saturday and showcased his culinary creation, a Wild Cherry Duck Breast.

Prior to that, I was treated to an amazing meal at DEKA and my taste buds were left wanting more.  When I was seated, I browsed their impressive menu.  I decided to start off with a drink called the Sparkling that consisted of vodka, pomegranate juice, simple syrup, fresh lemon juice and prosecco.  Sparkling was sweet and so delightful.

In between sipping my drink, I munched on an assortment of breads with butter.  I then ordered their crab cakes and bruschetta appetizers.

I was so full after the appetizers, I ordered a house salad with a side of mashed potatoes as my entrée.  My friend who was attending dinner with me ordered the duck which was divine. 

After my meal, I decided to order another drink.  This time I opted for a Cloud 9 cocktail that had vodka, cranberry juice, apple juice and Chambord.  I thought both specialty drinks were amazing, I enjoyed both of them equally. 

Once my second drink was finished, I made some room for dessert.  I was astonished when I saw my tiramisu and triple chocolate mousse being brought to the table.  They looked too good to devour, yet once I got over my amazement for the way they were displayed, I decided to dive in.  Both desserts were scrumptious.

The presentation of the food makes you feel like you are dining with a master piece on your plate.

I then concluded my extravagant dining experience with an espresso.

DEKA hosts regular jazz music every Friday and some Saturdays at 8 pm and there is never a cover charge. 

The restaurant also has a game room with slot machines which can easily be covered by a floor to ceiling drapery and can be used for private parties or corporate meetings.

DEKA is owned by Highland Park resident Alex Vaysman and his father-in-law, Igor Shtrambrand, who owns Shtram’s Deli, which is right next door to DEKA. Igor always wanted to open a fine dining establishment, and that he has accomplished.

For more information, please visit www.DekaRestaurant.com.