🍽️ DINING WITH VITAL SIGNS: FIELD EXAM The Smith – Chicago📍 400 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654
🩺 Dining with Vital Signs: The Smith (Chicago)
We spent Christmas Eve in the city with family and decided to stop at The Smith for a light lunch before heading to our next destination. Since it was a holiday and lunchtime, the restaurant was not very busy, which made it a good opportunity to assess service, safety, and allergy communication.
❤️ Heart Rate (First Impressions)
The entrance to The Smith is slightly hidden—we actually walked past it and had to turn around. Once inside, we were greeted and escorted to our table. I initially asked for a gluten-free menu, and while some items are marked, I was advised to speak directly with our server.
The restaurant was decorated nicely for Christmas and had a warm, cozy atmosphere.
🫁 Respiratory (Service & Communication)
At the table, our waiter brought still and sparkling water, but didn’t explain the difference. I realized this once I poured the water (note: I am not a fan of sparkling water 😅).
When I explained that I have gluten and dairy allergies, the waiter appeared unfamiliar and somewhat uncomfortable with allergy accommodations. To his credit, he did go speak directly with the chef, which is always reassuring.
He returned with two safe options:
• A burger with no bun (lettuce wrap)
• A gluten-free pasta dish
I chose the pasta.
Service overall was quite slow, especially considering how quiet the restaurant was, which added a bit of anxiety given the initial uncertainty around allergy knowledge.
🧠 Neuro Check (Safety & Cleanliness)
After ordering, I did what I always do — went to wash my hands. This remains one of the most effective ways to reduce the spread of germs and prevent illness.
The restroom is a bit of a journey:
• Downstairs
• Then down a hallway
The bathroom itself was clean, though one soap dispenser needed refilling. The sink was a long, trough-style sink — functional, but notable.
🍟 GI System (Food & Tolerance)
The waiter confirmed what I had read online: The Smith has a dedicated gluten-free fryer. That was enough for me to order fries — because when you don’t get fries often, you take the opportunity.
I ordered:
• Braised Short Rib Mafaldine
– Gluten-free pasta
– No mascarpone
– No parmesan
– Butter substituted with olive oil
• French fries
• Aioli (confirmed gluten- and dairy-free with the chef)
Both the pasta and fries arrived with red allergy flags, which immediately lowered my stress level.
French Fries:
Thin, crispy, salty, and hot.
Honestly? Top five gluten-free fries I’ve ever had.
They reminded me of McDonald’s fries — but better.
Pasta:
The gluten-free pasta was well cooked.
The braised short rib was extremely tender.
Sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs added brightness and balance.
Overall, a very satisfying dish.
📈 Vital Signs Summary (Ratings)
• Pasta: 💗 Sinus Rhythm — solid, dependable, and well prepared
• French Fries: 💓 Tachycardia — outstanding, would return just for these
🧾 Cost Check
• Braised Short Rib Mafaldine + Fries: $39 (before tax & tip)
• Total with tax & tip: $51.42
🩹 Discharge Instructions (Final Thoughts)
The Smith can accommodate gluten- and dairy-free diners, but clear communication with the server and chef is essential. The dedicated fryer and allergy flags were huge positives, while slower service and limited allergy knowledge created some initial stress.
Bonus for families: I noticed coloring sheets and crayons being passed around, which is a thoughtful touch when dining with kids.
Would I return?
Yes — especially for those fries.
Safe, happy, healthy.
