Gilt City Offers Savings, Unique Experiences
CHICAGO (CBS) -- Earlier this week, CBS 2's Susan Carlson and Megan Glaros enjoyed a dining experience at a posh River North eatery, with Steve Bartelstein filling in as waiter.
In their visit to MK, 868 N. Franklin St., they took advantage of a new group savings site – Gilt City. It's similar to Groupon in some respects, but focuses on packages and experiences rather than singular products or services.
In the case of MK, the experience involves more than just a discount at a fine restaurant.
"It's a perfect date. It's a perfect anniversary," said Gilt City senior sales manager Jason Berngard. "That's what we're all about at Gilt City. We want to make it special."
On its Web site, Gilt City says its staff have "combed through hundreds of neighborhoods, countless things to do and boiled it all down to the most sought-after experiences and services just for you."
"We're selling experiences, just like this four-course tasting menu," Berngard said.
That's right, at MK, the offering is a four-course tasting menu that you select yourself. Executive chef Erick Williams and pastry chef Tony Galzin will plan the tasting dinner out with you ahead of time. First, you contact them by e-mail with a list of what you like.
"I'm going to personally give you a call, and really give you the opportunity to have some input on what it is that you're going to be able to eat that evening, and really blow you out," Williams said.
Options listed on the Gilt City deal page include charcoal-grilled octopus atop braised and pureed red peppers; a creamy and cognac-infused lobster bisque with a sprinkling of saffron; and pan-roasted Lake Erie whitefish sharing a plate with Maine lobster, French beans, new potatoes, and tarragon-scented fennel puree.
For the Morning News team, the menu included vegan fare for Susan, and fish and meat for Megan. The staff also helped pick out some wines to pair with the selections. The white wine selection had "a little bit of richness, but not overly bodied or overly toasted."
The four-person meal comes for $85.
Among the other deals now available are up to 50 percent off dance classes or a three-month membership at Solao Fitness + Dance Studio, 1616 N. Western Ave.; up to 51 percent off haircuts and blowouts at the Chicago Avenue Salon, 1941 W. Chicago Ave.; and 50 percent off canine training classes at AnimalSense, 651 W. Washington Blvd., among others.
