Dining Out

I've lived in Chicago and the North Shore since 2003 and over the years I've accumulated a list of places I love and will continue to recommend to my friends and family. Below is a short list of my all-time favorite spots, some I've been to more than once, but many have blown me away with a wonderful first impression. This list will constantly evolve as new favorites are discovered.

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Paris Club
River North
You aren't immediately transported to a Parisian bistro when you walk into the place. A seemingly clubby restaurant surprisingly delivers amazing French country fare. The food is both comforting and intriguing. The chef serves up updated classics (foie gras and rillettes) that will leave you wanting to order more plates to share. Finish your dinner and head over to Studio Paris to end the night with a party.

RPM Italian
River North
Giuliana and Bill Rancic have partnered up with the Lettuce Entertain You franchise to create this modern Italian restaurant. There are some of Giuliana's family recipes as well as some unique creations. The dishes are meant for sharing but are perfectly reasonable portions for an individual. Sit down and stay a while, and drink in the polished surroundings and artistic cocktails.

BadHappy Poutine
River North
I was probably more excited about a poutine shop in Chicago than I've ever been about a restaurant opening. This comfort food combination of fries, gravy, and cheese is addictive and triggers the most basic hunger impulses. It's hearty, flavorful food that's executed professionally and artfully. It's a creative plate for something so sloppy sounding.

Farmhouse Tavern
River North
There has never been a more perfect farm to table concept than this. The restaurant doesn't leave you in want of more flavor in exchange for the freshness of the meal. Almost everything is locally sourced and feels like your grandmother (had she owned a farm) just spent the entire day preparing the meal for you. It's cozy but definitely gets busy later in the evening.

Sunda
River North
This is New Asian at its best. The flavors are both modern and traditional, and the restaurant is accommodating to all ages and palates. Whether you're looking for some authentic Southeast Asian spices or unique specialty sushi rolls, Sunda has you covered. The chic dining area is perfect for a celebration or an intimate dinner for two.

Taco Joint
Lincoln Park
This eatery boasts Mexican street fare. There are daily taco specials and each taco is about $2--such amazing value! Branch out of your guacamole comfort zone and try their other varieties. If you aren't in the mood for tacos, there are also tortas and salads offered. Don't forget to have a tres leches cake before you leave.

Franks 'n' Dawgs
Lincoln Park
Their motto, "Five Star Dining on a Bun" might be the truest thing you've ever experienced. You get sausage creations including duck and scallop. The chefs working behind the counter to create your dogs are graduates from five-star Chicago restaurants like Alinea and sixteen.

Blackbird
West Loop
Nobody likes paying a fortune for minuscule interior decoration on a plate. Whimsical dishes and bold flavors, however, are the trademarks of this restaurant. Come for lunch and enjoy a reasonably priced meal or head on over for dinner to celebrate something special (or just the fact that it's Friday). Everything is beautifully presented and it takes the dining experience to another level.

The Publican
West Loop
This is where meat and beer lovers come together and celebrate this wonderful combination. The menu changes seasonally, and so does the beer. I guarantee you will have new favorites each time you visit. Definitely try their oysters and pork belly (when they have it). The servers will open your eyes to new craft beers that will broaden your probably already-wide horizon of beer knowledge.

Acadia
South Loop
If you want first-class service, with the staff treating you like VIP, come here. If you want swanky dining with delicious five-star plates and high-quality ingredients, come here. If you want to drink intriguing cocktails from an award-winning mixologist but still look as sharp as Don Draper and everyone else in Mad Men, come here. It is such an amazing experience and is definitely worth the hefty price.

Cai
Chinatown
I've been to many dim sum restaurants, both in the United States and overseas, but Cai is one of my favorites. A relatively inexpensive meal set in a gilded restaurant is a surefire way to impress anybody. Newbies to dim sum and old relatives can both enjoy the flavors at Cai, with everything from chicken feet to Hong Kong-style egg tarts.

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xo,
k.