Thursday, September 27, 2012

City's First-Ever Stuffed Waffle Sandwich Shop Should Be A Hit In River North This Fall

bel50waffle
Bel 50's slow-roasted, all-natural BBQ pulled pork with smashed avocado, prosciutto, Brie, caramelized onions and fig chutney. (Photo: Bel 50)

Last year, everyone went wild over Waffles, the slick South Loop spot featuring the crispy treat in various flavors from green tea to Red Velvet.

Now comes Bel 50, which takes the concept a step further when it opens in October. Owned by restaurateur Tim Jandovitz and consulted by San Francisco-based chef Joey Altman, the River North eatery will specialize in gourmet waffle sandwiches for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

According to Chef Altman, the secret weapon will be the actual waffle, which is "light, crisp and airy on the outside and soft on the inside" and "not sweet, but instead taste similar to textured country bread." Additionally, each waffle is 220 calories (also 27 grams of carbs, and 4 grams of sugar), and will also be available gluten free.

Here's a sample of what will be on the menu: