Beach Bites: Aura on the Lake
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Lobster nachos from Aura at Edgewater Beach. Photo: Monica Eng/Axios
All this summer, we're reviewing beachfront cafes and restaurants, and today we head to Aura on the Lake, where I felt transported to a tropical resort for a couple of hours.
- Though this place may not be easy to find, it's worth the effort.
Dig in: Burgers, seafood appetizers, tacos, sandwiches and salads for between $12 and $18.
- We loved the indulgent lobster nachos with truffle cheese ($18), beer-battered fish tacos with cilantro lime slaw and chipotle aioli ($18) and the garden burger, featuring buffalo mozzarella, basil aioli and balsamic reduction ($18).
Drink up: Wine, beer and non-alcoholic and regular summery cocktails — think mangonada martinis and watermelon mojitos — for $7-$14.
Between the lines: Aura is run by the folks at Uvae Wine Bar and Fromagerie in Andersonville, which explains sophisticated items like smoked fish dip with lemon oil and crispy lavash ($14) or ahi tuna tartare ($16).
Steps to the water: 150, mostly on a sturdy plastic boardwalk.
- We sat in the beach cabana area beyond the patio dining room, making it easy to take a dip between ordering and eating.
Pro tip: Take public transit, bike or walk to this hidden Edgewater spot tucked behind a building near Hollywood Avenue and Sheridan Road.
- I dumbly drove and was lucky to find parking four blocks away.