A Festival of Flavors at Carnivale

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  Over the past few years I have heard wonderful things about Carnivale, located in Chicago's Fulton Market District. Driving northbound toward I-90 W, I'd always catch a glimpse of the restaurant's exterior with it's bold and colorful vertical lines. After reading a few mixed reviews about the restaurant, I decided to experience Carnivale for myself.  
• Carnivale cuisine is greatly influenced by Brazil, Puerto Rico, Cuba, Mexico, Spain and Colombia.  Their menu offerings include south american favorites such as shrimp ceviche made with house-smoked chipotle, Peruvian half-chicken, Puerto Rican rice, fried plantains and other specialties.    
  My dinner guest met me on a Thursday night for dinner. As you enter the main dining room, you'll immediately notice the over-the-top decor...a 35,000 square foot space that doesn't disappoint.  Other features include 25-high red velvet drapes, seven-foot high light fixtures, a jewel-colored skylight and a second-story wine wall with colorful backlighting and latin music serving as the backdrop. I requested seating on the upper level, away from the surprising high noise level in the main dining room.  
  

  The evening started with a Carnival Martini - a smooth blend of Espolón Reposado Tequila, Cointreau, pomegranate juice and fresh lime juice.  I decided to pick a few appetizers and share them with my guest. Appetizers included,  Ropa Vieja, Tacos de Pescado, Cured Meats & Olives and Carmelized Sweet Plantains.  The appetizers were all very tasty, but nothing outstanding.  For my entree, I chose the Truffle Cheese Arepa, which I really enjoyed.  However, the Ceviche was worth the trip alone...no kidding!  
  The waitstaff was friendly and greeted us with a warm smile.  However, we experience long wait times between bar, appetizer and entree service.  Overall, the dining experience was hit and miss, the table service was good.  I plan to go back to try the Paella.  
  
  
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