At Ditka’s, it’s all about da meat: Mystery Diner

OAKBROOK TERRACE – It's turning to fall, and the cooling temperatures seem to grant us permission to indulge in heavier meals, rich with the flavors of the harvest. So when I landed at Ditka's, known widely for its chops and steaks, plus its own popular wines, I was more than ready.

Located on the main level of the busy Mid America high-rise complex in Oakbrook Terrace, parking was sparse in the lot, but an underground garage was both convenient and kept my head dry on an otherwise stormy fall evening.

My dining companion and I began our meal with an order of guacamole and tortilla chips. The freshly made guacamole was delightful, and arrived topped with scarlet pomegranate seeds and sprinkled with cotija cheese. Also offered with the appetizer was a dish of roasted tomato salsa, its smoky roasted flavor providing a counterpoint to the brightness of the guacamole.

While I enjoyed the appetizer, my friend dug into a tangy Caesar salad of both romaine and crispy kale, loaded with freshly shaved Parmesan and plenty of garlic.

For dinner, we opted for two signature items at Ditka's: The “Fridge” Burger and Da Pork Chop.

If you’re a burger enthusiast who revels in wild toppings and unusual combinations, then this is not the burger for you. This sandwich is simple and straightforward, with an undeniable appeal, much like William Perry himself. Cooked perfectly and topped with plenty of the basics – cheddar, mustard, mayonnaise, onions, pickles, lettuce and tomato – it paid tribute to the former lineman. This burger, too, was larger than life, and at one point the thought of using a knife and fork crossed our minds.

As pork chops go, the Ditka’s version was impressive and tasty. The two-boned Berkshire chop was tender with just the right amount of char, was seasoned well, and was playing nicely off the sweetness of the mashed sweet potatoes and fruit chutney that accompanied on the plate. A bit of smokiness to the meat would have made it perfect, but all around, I was more than content.

The chop paired well with a glass of Ditka’s Cabernet Sauvignon, and I was happy with my choice, given the wide variety available on the wine list. But if you’re more the cocktail sort, try the classic Old Fashioned. My dinner partner is a bit of a connoisseur, and described the Ditka’s version as “perfection.”

The desserts being delivered all over the restaurant kept catching our eyes, so we opted to share the banana cream pie. It was a surprisingly light, creamy creation, filled with fresh and ripe bananas and layered with graham cracker and caramel sauce – a sweet end to a more than satisfying meal.

Overall, Ditka’s is exactly what it proposes to be … a great steakhouse with a wide menu. Comfortable while still classy, it’s perfect for date night, entertaining clients or dinner with mom and dad.

The Mystery Diner is a newsroom employee at Suburban Life Media. The diner's identity is not revealed to the restaurant staff before or during the meal. Only positive dining experiences will result in published reviews.