November 20, 2024
Mystery Diner

Mystery Diner in Geneva: Fiora's creates inviting haven for food lovers

We wanted to make one of the last warm evenings something special, and Fiora's in downtown Geneva immediately sprang to mind.

By MYSTERY DINER

It turned out to be the final week for its spectacular patio, where, happily ensconced, we raised a bubbly glass of Italian Prosecco to summer's end. A soundtrack played vintage swing and jazz to set the relaxed mood, with candles appearing as the sun set. The dinner restaurant now has switched to indoor dining, in itself a treat in the landmark building transformed into a mecca for foodies. The onetime house offers dining in various spaces – from the library-themed bar to the chandelier room with fireplace and the glass-enclosed sun-room with great views of the action on historic South Third Street. We began our meal with an artisan cheese board, selecting the Monte Amore, a rich, Parmesan-inspired treat, wonderfully accented by Fiora's own brandy-marinated apricots and figs, along with its house-roasted candied pecans, crostini and the quince jam the restaurant specially sources. We devoured every tidbit. (Shaw Media)

It turned out to be the final week for its spectacular patio, where, happily ensconced, we raised a bubbly glass of Italian Prosecco to summer's end. A soundtrack played vintage swing and jazz to set the relaxed mood, with candles appearing as the sun set. The dinner restaurant now has switched to indoor dining, in itself a treat in the landmark building transformed into a mecca for foodies. The onetime house offers dining in various spaces – from the library-themed bar to the chandelier room with fireplace and the glass-enclosed sun-room with great views of the action on historic South Third Street. We began our meal with an artisan cheese board, selecting the Monte Amore, a rich, Parmesan-inspired treat, wonderfully accented by Fiora's own brandy-marinated apricots and figs, along with its house-roasted candied pecans, crostini and the quince jam the restaurant specially sources. We devoured every tidbit. (Shaw Media)

Soups at Fiora's are all gluten-free and always tasty. My dining companion chose a summer-kissed cold soup, a beautifully balanced Spanish tomato gazpacho. I picked the creamy chicken and rice with mushrooms.

My dining companion put Fiora's "Classic Burger" to the test, and it wowed, a towering work of art that tasted as delicious as it looked. It featured Angus beef with a hint of smokiness, topped by melted cheese, lettuce and tomato, all piled high on an excellent pretzel roll. The seasoned fries, served nice and hot, also were a standout and, between the two of us, didn't last long.

The menu tempted me with the "Pan Seared Oriental Salmon" with orange sesame ginger sauce, and the slow-braised "Korean BBQ Short Rib," with wasabi mashed potatoes and Asian vegetables. I went back to a favorite appetizer for my entree, the Bang Bang Shrimp (shown), featuring panko-crusted fried shrimp in a luscious sauce over Asian slaw. The succulent shrimp were large and beautifully prepared. The recipe has a mild kick.

Fiora's is known for its wine list, and pairs its recommended selections with the dishes on the menu, describing its fare as "casual American fine dining." Not wanting the evening to end, we opted to linger over dessert, treating ourselves to the chocolate espresso pots de creme, which artfully filled a cup with dark chocolate cream mousse, accompanied by a trio of superb truffles.

Helping make it a memorable night was our pampering and knowledgeable server. Reservations are recommended. Fiora's deservedly draws accolades as a Geneva favorite.

• The Mystery Diner is a newsroom employee at the Kane County Chronicle. The diner’s identity is not revealed to restaurant staff before or during the meal. If the Mystery Diner cannot recommend the establishment, we will not publish a review. IF YOU GO Fiora's WHERE: 317 S. Third St., Geneva HOURS: 5:30 to 9 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday INFO: www.fioras.com; reservations at Fioras317@gmail.com or 630-262-1317