Well-known local bartenders—famous for slangin’ dranks—narrow down their favorite dish at their restaurant.
Hey, hey—it’s J. Rieger and Co.’s Andrew Olsen, who helped open the still shiny-new distillery last July. Olsen says his joint offers up two unique concepts for cocktails and food. “We have the Hey! Hey! Club in the basement, where you’ll find a bit more upscale style of service—and reciprocating food and drinks. In the Monogram Lounge, we have a more fast-casual style concept with 13 cocktails on draft, cocktails made á la minute, and a food menu filled with lots of sharable items as well as salads, soups, and sandwiches.”
Olsen shares his must-have, must-order dish to chow down on alongside a few adult libations:
“My favorite seasonal menu item right now is the pork and bean chili! It has a great savory base of white beans, consommé, and caramelized onions and peppers all mixed up with heritage pork shoulder from Arrowhead Meats. (Expect the pork to be braised with our Heim Beer—a collaboration beer with KC Bier Co.—celebrating the rich history of our building and the legacy that comes with it.)
Atop this bowl of goodness, you’ll find crème fraiche, pickled jalapeños, grated Cottonwood Farms reserve cheddar, and micro cilantro from our friends at Missing Ingredient, served with a small side of tortilla chips for all the inevitable scooping and dipping. This dish is what I look for when choosing a meal: simple preparation and high-quality ingredients that have a very high impact on flavor. It’s fulfilling and keeps me light on my feet. One thing to keep in mind? This chili is seasonal which means that we only have it at limited times throughout the year (late fall, winter, and early spring).
And pro tip? Ask for a side of Valentino—because hot sauce is life.”