One of my 2018 Bucket List items was to go to a new-to-me Chicago restaurant each month. I typically find this pretty easy to achieve because there are so many awesome places in the city. Today I thought I’d share some of my favorite Chicago restaurants.
Coast Sushi Bar, Bucktown, $$
When I moved to Chicago, I asked a few people for a good sushi recommendation and Coast came up time and time again. It’s BYOB too! Dishes to try: white dragon roll (pictured) and coast crab.
Slurping Turtle, River North, $$
Where I had my first ramen and it’s ruined me for all others! Plus, the location is perfect for after work when I’m in the office. Dishes to try: hangover ramen (brunch, pictured), duck fat fried chicken, and the dragon roll.
Velvet Taco, Gold Coast, $$
A casual walk-up counter for really unique taco combinations in Gold Coast (and all over Texas too). Dishes to try: shrimp and grits taco and red curry coconut queso.
The Kennison, Lincoln Park, $$
I’ll admit, there are going to be more than a couple Lincoln Park spots on this list because it’s my neighborhood. And this is my favorite neighborhood spot! Dishes to try: the scallops, the gooey butter cake (pictured), and for brunch – the biscuits and gravy.
Proxi, West Loop, $$$
This is my go-to spot to take out of towners. They serve small plates inspired by street food. Dishes to try: tempura elotes, roasted baby potatoes, and black pepper pork.
Formento’s, West Loop, $$$
I went to Formento’s specifically for their bucatini and it did not disappoint. It’s got a carbonara sauce with the most perfect egg yolk to split before eating. Dishes to try: bucatini (pictured), nonna’s meatballs, and their famous chocolate cake.
Two Lights, Old Town, $$
This spot is brand new – opened in June – and has amazing seafood and small plates. Plus, the décor is to die for. Dishes to try: tuna poke tacos (pictured) and grilled Spanish octopus.
Pequod’s Pizzeria, Lincoln Park, $$
If your gang can’t agree on Giordano’s vs. Lou Malnati’s, throw in this sleeper pick. Personally, I’m a Giordano’s girl myself, but Pequod’s carmelized cheese crust isn’t anything to complain about. Dishes to try: Deep dish pizza with sausage and pepperoni. You need nothing else.
Summer House Santa Monica, Lincoln Park, $$
Another neighborhood favorite, they serve my favorite salad in the city. Plus, lots of rosé. Dishes to try: Brussels sprouts salad (pictured), and the local burrata and marinated tomatoes. Don’t forget a cookie from their bakery on your way out!
Ēma, River North, $$
I think Ēma may have the most crave-able dishes in the city which is why I keep going back. Dishes to try: Go at lunch and get the trio of dips. I always pick house-made labneh, toasted almond and garlic, and avocado and sweet pea. The frozen Greek yogurt with olive oil and sea salt is the most perfect dessert I’ve ever had. And that’s saying a lot for this sweet tooth!
Bar Biscay, Noble Square, $$$
I went to Bar Biscay right after surgery and it was a good pick. It’s a Basque restaurant and has a lot of unique choices. Dishes to try: sausage roll (pictured) and the braised pork and egg sandwich.
Oyster Bah, Lincoln Park, $$
Oyster Bah has by far one of my favorite happy hours in the city. So many great deals, although my friends and I usually wind up ordering all the carbs. Dishes to try: mac and cheese, boardwalk fries, and the poké poké (pictured). Although the picks sound simple, they’re anything but!
What Chicago spots would you add to the list?
Macello (on Lake St), Table, Donkey and Stick, Hopleaf
Yay for new places to try!!