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(Shaw Media)
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The grand opening in late July drew loads of fans. Wahlberg, a founding member of boy band New Kids on the Block, is a star of the hit CBS television series "Blue Bloods." He and McCarthy, an actress and television/radio host, greeted fans at the latest restaurant in the group helmed by his older brother and chef Paul Wahlberg. Their brother Mark Wahlberg also is part of the enterprise, which was the subject of the "Wahlburgers" cable television series. We had hoped to sit outside on the spacious patio overlooking a pond set back off Randall Road in St. Charles just south of Route 38. But the recent rains turned our plans into a takeout experience that did not disappoint.
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For now, the eatery doesn't take phoned carryout orders, but has a separate entrance on the north side sporting a "To Go" sign. A staffer steps outside to take credit-card-only orders, and despite it being a busy night, our food was ready in about 10 minutes. We shared the terrific Southern Chicken Salad, featuring an appealing mix of lettuces along with adorably tiny cubes of cumin-roasted sweet potato, roasted corn kernels, lots of tasty bacon pieces, shaved smoked cheddar, roasted cherry tomatoes, pickled red onion, and marinated grilled chicken with a savory punch. It was accompanied by a smokey, honey vinaigrette. The quality of the ingredients impressed. One also can opt for crispy fried chicken.
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For an entree, my dining companion chose the BBQ Bacon burger (starred as Donnie's choice), with white cheddar, barbecue sauce and a creamy avocado spread.
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He upgraded to a side of the bacon mac 'n' cheese that boasted complex, subtle flavors in the well-balanced recipe. Praising the 1/3-pound patty as a substantial portion, he said the fresh jalapeño slivers add a nice zing.
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I selected Jenn's Chicken Sandwich. The generous serving of marinated and seared chicken breast was paired with a delicious abundance of caramelized onions and house-made honey-garlic mayo. I ordered it with the gluten-free bun, also good.
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I picked tater tots as a side. The menu features them in multiple variations, including the Cinnamon Sugar Sweet Tots. Dessert options include sundaes and shakes. We'll have to return to try Paul's signature Wahl Sauce. The website notes that indoor seating is available on a first-come basis. The casual dining room offers beer and wine, and is said to have a one-of-a-kind immersive “Happy Place” area we look forward to visiting.
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• The Mystery Diner is a newsroom employee at the Kane County Chronicle. The diner’s identity is not revealed to restaurant staff when ordering or picking up the food. If the Mystery Diner cannot recommend the establishment, we will not publish a review. IF YOU GO Wahlburgers WHERE: 825 S. Randall Road, St. Charles WHEN: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Sunday INFO: wahlburgers.com/stcharles, 331-235-5200