2015 Make It Better Dining Guide

CHICAGO AND NORTH SHORE

WHERE & WHAT TO EAT 201 5 DIGI TA L DI N I NG GU I DE

FEATURING CHICAGO’S BEST RAMEN | 15 TACOS YOU HAVE TO TRY WINE PAIRINGS FOR SUMMER GRILLING | FAVORITE BRUNCH SPOTS | HAMBURGER HEAVEN | AND MORE!

CHEESE MARKET

Over 1,000 Assorted Cheeses!

Cheese ∙ Deli ∙ Bakery ∙ Meat Coffee ∙ Pasta ∙ Wine ∙ Spices

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231 E. Wisconsin Ave. Lake Forest, IL 60045 847-482-0100

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CHEESE MARKET

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1931 N. 15th Ave. Melrose Park, IL 60160 708-450-0469

Always in good taste. exquisite cuisine ² impeccable service ² extraordinary creativity ² since 1967 424 north wood street | chicago, illinois 60622 | 312.829.3663 | georgejewell.com

2015 DIGITAL DINING GUIDE 10: Gourmet Markets u

37: Michelin Star Restaurants u

BY L AU R A L E V Y SHAT K IN

BY J U LIE CH ER N O FF

18: Kid-Friendly Restaurants u

46: Outdoor Dining u

BY PA MEL A ROT H BAR D

BY J U LIE CH ER N O FF

25: Restaurants for Business u

52: Asian Food u

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32: Summer Wine Pairings u

59: Best Bakeries u

BY L AU R A L E V Y SHAT K IN

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COVER PHOTO COURTESY OF LETTUCE ENTERTAIN YOU RESTAURANTS 4

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66: Chicago Brewpubs u

118: Tasty Tacos u

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72: Favorite Brunch Spots u

126: Girls’ Night Out u

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80: Cool Coffee Shops u

132: Chicago’s Best Ramen u

BY B EL IN DA LICH T Y CL AR K E

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86: Delicious Delis u

138: Best Riverfront Restaurants u

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BY AN D R E A GU T HM AN N

91: Best Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives u

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142: A Gal’s Guide to Steakhouses u

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98: Ethnic Restaurants u

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150: Best Mexican Food u

104: Best Burgers u

156: Scrumptious Salads u

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112: Chicago’s Best Pizza u

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161: Best Butcher Shops and Charcuterie u

BY A M B ER GIBS O N

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LET’S DO LUNCH!

501 CHESTNUT ST., WINNETKA | 847.441.1700 | WWW.TRIFECTAGRILLWINNETKA.COM 6

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celebrating 40 years of

spectacular meetings | special events | award-winning cuisine

2855 North Milwaukee Avenue, Northbrook, IL 60062 | northbrookallgauers.com | 847.480.7500

Taste with your eyes and palate

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EAT SIP the extensive wine list, craft beers & up-tempo libations SIP SAVOR the exquisitely prepared food PLAN MEET Chef/Owner Steve Leviton and his team SPACE Call for reservations 847-441-0134 Lively Lunch · Sunday Brunch · Delectable Dinner

Creative Cocktails · Artisan Beers · Wonderful Wines

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For more info, visit www.tasteonchestnut.com Call for reservations (847) 441-0134 Visit www.tasteonchestnut.com

WHERE & WHAT TO EAT THE 2015 DIGITAL DINING GUIDE

BY GENEVIEVE LILL

Dining out is always a treat—whether you’re grabbing burgers in the neighborhood or celebrating a special occasion at one of Chicago’s world-class restaurants. The only problem is: There are so many good options! Let Make It Better be your guide. We’ve vetted the best restaurants in so many categories—from kid-friendly to business-friendly and everything in between—that you’re sure to find the perfect fit.

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PASTORAL ARTISAN CHEESE, BREAD AND WINE

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WHERE TO LOAD UP YOUR

PICNIC BASKET B Y L A U R A L E V Y S H AT K I N

Yes, summer is here and we’re ready for al fresco anything!

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SANDWICHES AT ARTISANAL

As the season finally changes, our thoughts stray to outdoor concerts and picnics with friends, because everyone knows that food always tastes better outdoors. Next time you’re looking for just the right assortment of snacks and beverages to bask in the summer sun, or on a warm night under the stars, choose from the gourmet groceries below and make the evening easy. That’s what summer is about, right?

ARTISANAL Things are happening at Wilmette’s little specialty gem where sourcing local products is a mission. Talk about super fresh: They’re doing in-house, whole-animal butchery. An ideal picnic basket might include: inventive Vietnamese12

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style banh mi sandwiches; chicken salad made from just-roasted chickens; Slagel Family Farms beef roasted rare in-house; greens direct from Catalpa Grove Farm; glutenfree whole grain salads; and for fish-lovers, try the famous salmon cakes, served with the sauce of the day. 414 Linden Ave., Wilmette, 847-512-3155

FOODSTUFFS This long-time North Shore favorite has a nice selection of meals to go that are perfect for a meal under the stars, from the Salmon Splash (fresh poached salmon with cucumber dill sauce, pasta salad, fresh fruit salad, roll and cookies) to the Wrap This (wrap sandwich, fresh fruit salad, chips and a chocolate-chip cookie). The huge

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made-to-order sandwich and salad menu, large cheese and bakery sections, and well-curated selection of pantry items (chutneys, dips, mustards, etc.) make this a one-stop shop.

2106 Central St., Evanston, 847-328-7704; 338 Park Ave., Glencoe, 847-835-5105; 1456 Waukegan Road, Glenview, 847-832-9999; 255 E. Westminster Ave., Lake Forest, 847-234-6600

THE FRESH MARKET There’s always plenty to choose from at this North Carolina-based specialty grocery store in Edens Plaza. For a picnic, you might grab one of their hand-rolled wraps (try the Turkey, Brie and Cranberries or the Chicken Caesar), a prepared salad and a loaf of the wonderfully crusty rosemary and sea salt sourdough rolls. The cheese selection

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is broad and the prepared roasted meats (pork loin, turkey breast and chicken) are always a good bet, although a knife for carving would be required. Desserts tempt with wonderfully moist red-velvet cupcakes and heavenly chocolate-chip rugelach. Their ample selection of craft beers and chilled wines makes it easy to grab your picnic items last

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minute, especially on the way to Ravinia. 850 Western Ave., Lake Forest, 847-482-0643; 475 Milwaukee Ave., Lincolnshire, 847-793-0926; 3232 Lake Ave., Wilmette, 847-251-4261

MARIANO’S These food emporiums have upped the ante for grab-‘n’-go picnic grub. So long, Dominick’s and helloMariano’s,

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MARIANO’S SALAD BAR

with new stores in Northfield and Ravenswood (right off the Metra stop of the same name). Their “design your own meal” is a quick and easy entree with two sides of your choice. If you prefer not to use knife and fork, opt for Todd’s BBQ station where beef brisket and smoked pulled pork sandwiches are topped with sauces like sweet Texas or tangy Carolina. With an astoundingly extensive chilled craft beer selection, I’d suggest beer over wine, although their bottle selection also holds its own. 450 W. Half Day Road, Buffalo Grove, 847-634-8500; 1800 W. Lawrence Ave., Chicago, 773-334-3549; 1822 Willow Road, Northfield, 847- 446-6870; 1900 S. Cumberland Ave., Park Ridge, 847696-2360

PASTORAL ARTISAN CHEESE, BREAD AND WINE The Ogilvie Train Station location of this exceptional shop proves to be as convenient for picnics in Grant Park or Millennium Park as it is for Ravinia. It’s easy to download their picnic menu and order online, too. Their distinct baskets come sized to order for your group, solving most any craving. Most picnics come with Charcuterie, with one of the broadest and most eclectic selections in town, from Smoking Goose’s duck-pearport salami to more straightforward Italian-style Milano salami, along with a range of locally sourced cheeses like the Prairie Breeze (Iowa), Quark or Red Rock (Wisconsin). If sandwiches are more to your

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CHEESE, NUT, BREAD AND FRUIT SELECTION AT PASTORAL

liking, the Salumi Picante, Herbed Duck Confit or the Classic Parisian Ham and butter will not disappoint. With their hand-selected wine and beers options, you won’t go thirsty either. Chicago French Market, 131 N. Clinton St., Chicago, 312-454-2200

Deerfield, 847-444-1900; 1111 Chicago Ave., Evanston, 847475-9492; 1640 Chicago Ave., Evanston, 847-733-1600; 840 Willow Road, Northbrook, 847205-5353; 225 W. Touhy Ave., Park Ridge, 847-292-7100

WHOLE FOODS With multiple locations around the North Shore, the mega-organic market is filled with picnic options. Some ideas for al fresco delight: cherry-pecan grain salad, zucchini-feta pie and a turkey cucumber wrap. Finish your meal with a mini summerfruit pie, just the right size for your party of two. And the chilled beverage selection makes pairing beer of wine a cinch. 760 Waukegan Road,

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GOURMET:

RESTAURANTS PARENTS AND KIDS WILL LOVE B Y PA M E L A R OT H B A R D

There are kids’ restaurants (hello, Rainforest Cafe) and adults’ restaurants (yes, Alinea) and then there’s the sweet spot— places that welcome children while also serving food that adults love. We’ve assembled a list of restaurants that fit the bill with inventive kids’ menus and friendly service.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF SHAW’S CRAB HOUSE

WHERE TO EAT WITH YOUR MINI

Mealtimes are all about connecting with each other and that’s made easier without parents hopping up to refill drinks and clear plates or kids leaving the table to rush to the next thing.

Plus, your kids will get to try, and maybe even love, foods they don’t get at home.

For a more enjoyable experience, go out early—you can avoid waits and eat before your kids get tired and cranky. At the first few meals out, order just entrees; appetizers and desserts may take too long and try a younger child’s patience. But, the very first step to fun family night out is choosing the right restaurant, and you can’t go wrong with any of the following choices.

FOODLIFE End bickering about which kind of food to go out for. Foodlife has it all—their 14 kitchens serve up everyone’s favorites like burgers, sushi, stir fry, pasta, and barbeque.

Kids love the swipe cards they use

to “pay” for their choices at the counters and a menu highlighting foods kids like is in the works. Water Tower Place, 835 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, 312-335-3663 GREEK ISLANDS Meat on a stick! Flaming cheese!

There’s a lot for kids to love at Greek Islands. Their menu goes on for days with choices like kids’ kabobs, gyros, burgers, spaghetti and pastichio (a kind of Greek lasagna, pictured). It’s also fun to explore Chicago’s Greektown. 200 S. Halsted, Chicago, 312-782-9855 KEVIN’S PLACE “Come for Kevin, stay for the food!” touts the Kevin’s Place website. Kevin is the restaurant’s friendly, funny, fabulous owner and host. He sits at each table to personally take orders, coaxing smiles from even the shyest children. Kids enjoy Mickey or Minnie Mouse pancakes and scrambler quesadillas. 808 Waukegan Road, Deerfield, 847-945-4577

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LA CASA DE ISAAC AND LA CASA DE ISAAC & MOISHE Brothers Isaac and Moishe offer a delicious introduction to fresh homestyle Mexican cuisine with kids’ tacos and quesadillas. Tortillas keep little hands busy and the menu offers great gluten-free options. For dessert, families can dig into helado frito (fried ice cream) or tres leches cake. 431 Temple Ave., Highland Park, 847-433-5550; 2014 First St., Highland Park, 847-433-7300 THE LANTERN The Lantern’s entire menu reads like a kid’s dream but there’s also

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a separate kids’ menu that becomes 3D with a free app. The atmosphere is festive and fun with a model train circling overhead and year-round holiday lights. On Sundays after 4 p.m., children 11 and under eat free while a balloon artist entertains them. 768 N. Western Ave., Lake Forest, 847-234-9844 LITTLE GOAT DINER From Stephanie Izard of Top Chef and Girl & the Goat fame comes a diner with some creative options. Mom and Dad can try pork belly pancakes with ginger maple dressing while their

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LITTLE GOAT DINER NACHOS

kids tear into an ooey gooey cinnamon roll (get ‘em early!).

The kids’ menu features diner staples like pancakes, mini dogs and sundaes. 820 W. Randolph St., Chicago, 312-888-3455 SHAW’S CRAB HOUSE Introduce your kids to fish and chips at this seafood restaurant.

Shaw’s kids’ menu also has the usual goodies like macaroni and chicken strips. Children 12 and under enjoy their Sunday brunch for free; it features a dessert table that’ll make kids swoon with mini pies, cakes and even cotton candy. 21 E. Hubbard St., Chicago, 312-527-2722 SLURPING TURTLE Kids will love slurping long, squiggly ramen noodles or eating from bento boxes. Large screens play anime (beautiful Japanese animated films) while children try to master chopsticks with the help of “fun chop” holders. 116 W. Hubbard St., Chicago, 312-464-0466

STIR CRAZY The chance for kids to create their own fresh stir-fry? Check.

The opportunity to watch it being fired up on a giant griddle?

Check. The kids’ menu also offers dishes like Ninja Noodles and Shogun Fried Rice along with trivia, games and a chopstick tutorial. Kids 10 and under eat free on Tuesdays and Thursdays after 4 p.m. with the purchase of an adult entree. 1186 Northbrook Court, Northbrook, 847-562-4800 TEN MILE HOUSE Tweens will appreciate the newly-opened Ten Mile House’s smoked brisket sandwich or wood-fired pizza. A kids’ menu adds to basics like grilled cheese with authentic barbequed ribs and burger sliders. The open kitchen and roaring fire from the pizza oven will pique kids’ interest. 1700 Central St., Evanston, 847-905-0669

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ANTIQUE TACO LOBBY

COUNTER SERVICE RESTAURANTS When it comes to dining out with kids, sometimes quicker is better. Counter service means you can sit and eat or, if you need a quick exit, pack it up and go without waiting for the check.

ANTIQUE TACO Tacos and quesadillas are kidhappy food and the familyowned Antique Taco readily modifies their tasty offerings to please the pickiest eaters.

Finish with Abuelita’s pop tart made with Mexican chocolate and marshmallows. The colorful, whimsical restaurant features giant spools as table numbers and free Chiclets gum. 1360 N. Milwaukee, Chicago, 773-687-8697 BARNABY’S OF NORTHBROOK Dark wood booths and oldschool vinyl tablecloths make this place feel like the pizza joint of your childhood. Barnaby’s serves up Italian specialties like homemade baked mostaccioli,

meatball parmigiana and, of course, their crispy cornmealcrust pizzas. 960 Skokie Blvd., Northbrook, 847-498-3900 NOODLES AND CO. Their pitch: “Globally inspired, locally prepared.” Kids can try pad thai or an Indonesian peanut saute or stick with more familiar dishes like chicken noodle soup or Wisconsin mac and cheese. Every meal comes comes in adult and kid-sized portions and the selfservice drink machine allows for fun endless combinations. Fiftyeight locations in Illinois, including nine in Chicago and these local spots: 1209 W. Dundee Road, Buffalo Grove, 847-483-9925 | 110c S. Waukegan Road, Deerfield, 847559-9172 | 930 Church St., Evanston, 847-733-1200 | 1851 Tower Drive, Glenview, 847-729-5555 | 303 S. Waukegan Road, Lake Bluff, 847-482-1680 | 900 Milwaukee Ave., Lincolnshire, 847-793-0514 | 510 Touhy, Park Ridge, 847-2926502 | 700 N. Milwaukee Ave., Vernon Hills, 847-816-3910.

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POWER RESTAURANTS RESTAURANTS FOR BUSINESS

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHICAGO CUT

BY JULIE CHERNOFF

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I’m not talking about power eating, although I’m certainly not ruling that out, either.

These are the restaurants you go to when you’ve got business to attend to; where to take a meeting, where to see and be seen, where to use your expense account.

Not surprisingly, the list is redmeat heavy. It’s much easier to negotiate when you’re well taken care of and your belly and your glass are full.

CHICAGO Blackbird

2013 James Beard Awardwinning Chef Paul Kahan’s first restaurant, and still every bit as delicious as the first day it opened. Randolph Street’s Restaurant Row starts here. 619 W. Randolph St., 312-715-0708

< MORTON’S COCKTAIL CHICAGO CUT TAR TAR >

Chicago Cut Steakhouse

Every thing about this place screams “CLOUT,” from the shellfish bouquet to the massive Porterhouse steak. 300 N. LaSalle St., 312-329-1800 Del Frisco’s

Occupying three floors of the once glamorous Esquire Theater, the décor—and the enormous wine tower—is out of control. 58 E. Oak St., 312888-2499 MK

Open since 1998, and not a sign of slowing down. The atmosphere is conducive to conversation, but the food might just stop you in your tracks. 868 N. Franklin St., 312-482-9179 RL

East Coast machers—or those that wish they were—chow

down on comfort food in an uber-preppy, clubby atmosphere. 115 E. Chicago Ave., 312-475-1100 Rosebud Prime

This is a power staircase if I’ve ever seen one. It’s a Chicago steakhouse with speakeasy glamour—and a killer burger.

1 S. Dearborn St., 312-384-1900

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INOVASI’S ROASTED BRUSSEL SPROUTS AND TENDERLOIN

DEERFIELD

GLENVIEW

This American bistro with an Italian accent makes a mean martini and serves it up with a yummy Caesar salad (or Kale and Quinoa, if you’re feeling health conscious) and Gnocchi with Beef. 695 Deerfield Rd., 847-607-9104

The 1940s-era dinner-club vibe works well with the food.

Order the Cedar-Planked Salmon and seal the deal. 1300 Patriot Blvd., 847-657-6363

Bobby’s Deerfield

Wildfire

EVANSTON Pete Miller’s

The menu here is almost as big as the 22-ounce Bone-In Ribeye. Almost. 1557 Sherman Ave., 847-328-0399

HIGHLAND PARK Nieto’s

No one can make you feel quite as welcome as owner Debbie Nieto. The menu is user-friendly and the feel is clubby and casual. 429 Temple Ave., 847-432-0770

LAKE BLUFF Inovasi

Quince

At any given moment, there’s a professor from NU signing a contract in the corner, or maybe an offer dinner from a big consulting firm. And the food? It’s worth a drive. 1625 Hinman Ave., 847-570-8400

Proprietor John des Rosiers knows his way around a plate at this contemporary American favorite. There’s something here for everyone to agree on. 28 E. Center Ave., 847-295-1000

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MARKET HOUSE ROASTED CHICKEN

LAKE FOREST

Market House on the Square

American comfort food with a twist, everything made from scratch, and a country-club feel…no wonder it’s perennially packed. 655 Forest Ave., 847-234-8800

LINCOLNSHIRE Eddie Merlot’s

The Chef’s Creations, including a Triple-Prime Meatloaf and Beef Bourguignon, all include a Caesar and side dishes and they’re only $28.

Your business associates will think you’re a genius. 185 N. Milwaukee Ave., 847-276-2000

NORTHBROOK

Morton’s the Steakhouse

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right. You did your first business deal at Morton’s. Why not your next one? 699 Skokie Blvd., 847-205-5111 Prairie Grass

This is a bustling restaurant with a conscience. So as you eat your locally sourced, sustainably produced and flat-out tasty meal, you can feel good no matter which way the deal goes. 601 Skokie Blvd., 847205-4433

SKOKIE

McCormick & Schmick’s

For a classic business lunch, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better location on the North Shore. Fresh seafood and a very worthy happy hour combine to make a winner. 4999 Old Orchard Shopping Center, 847-763-9811

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PHOTO COURTESY OF PASTORAL

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WINE PAIRINGS FOR SUMMER GRILLING B Y L A U R A L E V Y S H AT K I N

Barbecue time is finally here— and BBQ means summer entertaining. Yahoo!

Wondering what libations to serve with your grilled goodies? When you pair wines with BBQ and grilled foods, many of the usual principles of pairing wine and food apply, but being summer, the rules lighten up a bit. It’s time to kick back and relax!

With barbecued and grilled foods, the perfect wine is as much about creating balance and synergy of flavors as it is about the intoxication of

hot lazy summer days. You don’t want one taste element to dominate another, yet you also want to soak in the sun, fun and friends, rejoicing that summer is finally here. If you move through the brief lineup of wines below, from lightest to fullest, you’re sure to find a few that’ll enhance not only your food, but also your mood.

One big tip: When it comes to grilling and barbecuing,

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remember that the dominant flavors are often found in the rubs, sauces and glazes, not in the specific meat itself.

Whites and Lights One of the most adaptable wines for summertime grill-

ing of any kind is sparkling wine. With its charming acidity and sprightly flavors, it’s a great way to get the party started. Try a Cava, such as the Anna de Cordiniu Cava , a Spanish sparkling wine that’s lovely and reasonable, generally under $10, and bursting with refreshing citrus flavors. A barbecue doesn’t necessarily warrant expensive Champagne, but bubbles are always welcome.

Moving along to a starter, such as a salad with grilled peppers or scallions, I generally reach for a white or rosé.

Riesling is by far the most versatile white and I adore those from Alsace, but a rosé or light red is also a great choice. A dry rosé, like the Sonoma Coast’s Crossbarn

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by Paul Hobbs 2013 Rosé of Pinot Noir , is an incredibly fruity but restrained wine that pairs easily with anything from summer salads and grilled chicken to smoked pork. I also recently enjoyed the Clif Family Grenache , a lighter red with nice minerality and a bit more body than typical, helped by a dose of Zinfandel added for structure.

Fichimori from Puglia, Italy is another fun wine for lighter grilled dishes and is meant to be served chilled.

It’s a tasty blend of primarily Negroamaro grapes (native to southern Italy) with a touch of Syrah. Flavors of pomegranate, tart cherry and rose make it a lovely summer sipper and the cool

temperature is a bonus.

Akin to a Beaujolais, the Fichimori is bright enough to stand up to a moderate barbeque sauce but can also work as a rosé alternative.

Reds With Stamina Now let’s talk about the real barbecue—ribs, steaks and chops—that defines the technique for many. Never fear, the fruit bombs are on their way. The robust flavors of these dishes certainly call for big wines, but also for wines that are wonderfully silky and velvety for maximum enjoyment. One of my picks in this category is the small batch Cenyth , an elegant Bordeaux-style blend (predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon) from Sonoma. Made by famous French winemak-

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er Pierre Seillan’s daughter Hélène, it’s deep ruby in color, with intense flavors of rich plums, cherries and currants. It’s a crowd pleaser to be sure.

Another lesser-known category of bolder reds hail from Umbria, Italy, made from the Sagrantino grape.

These grapes grow in the scenic hills of Montefalco in this stunning part of Italy.

Thanks to the opening of Eataly Chicago, with their enormous selection of handpicked Italian products, we now have a range of these wines to choose from: Antonelli San Marco, Perticaia and Scacciadiavoli, to name a few.

Remember, it’s not always about the food. Keep in mind all the things you’re doing at a barbecue, i.e. socializing, laughing and otherwise enjoying a lovely day. The wine world is your oyster. Pop a cork and enjoy your next barbeque with friends and family—and good wine, of course.

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ELIZABETH AND SIXTEEN: A TALE OF TWO MICHELIN-STARRED CHICAGO RESTAURANTS

BY JULIE CHERNOFF

PHOTO COURTESY OF SIXTEEN

Michelin stars are elusive.

In Europe, the awarding of a star can make or break a restaurant; it can increase attendance exponentially. Losing a star can be catastrophic. Chef Bernard Loiseau, chef/owner of La Côte d’Or, committed suicide in 2003 when it

was rumored that he was slipping from three stars to two. The Michelin Guide is serious business.

Legendary French chef Paul Bocuse once said, “Michelin is the only Guide that counts.” And

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FERMENTED ENDIVE, POTATO, WOOD EAR MUSHROOMS, FISH SAUCE, FLOWERS.

while the Michelin Guide might not have quite the impact in the U.S. that it does overseas (perhaps because the Michelin inspectors didn’t cross the pond until 2005—New York, of course—and didn’t arrive in Chicago until 2011), in foodie circles, and certainly in the restaurant world itself, it’s a huge deal.

Here’s how the ratings system breaks down: •B ib Gourmand: good food at reasonable prices ($40 per person) •O ne star: “A very good restaurant in its category” •T wo stars: “Excellent cooking, worth a detour” •T hree stars: “Exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey” The rating is done by super-secret inspectors; it’s all very hushhush. In November of 2013, 64 restaurants were deemed “Bib Gourmand;” 20 Chicago restaurants rated one star; four re-

ceived two stars; and only one— Alinea—received three stars, the top prize (find the complete list here). From my viewpoint, many deserving restaurants go unrewarded, but that’s a story for another day.

Last week, I had the opportunity to dine at two Michelin-starred restaurants: Elizabeth, an exciting newcomer that received a single Michelin star; and Sixteen, which moved up this year from one star to two. It was a big week for my stomach, but I survived to tell the tale.

While these aren’t full reviews, I wanted to share the experience with my readers in hopes that you’ll be inspired to check out these places on your own.

Both restaurants feature prix-fixe tasting menus; both provided excellent “food theater” with exciting presentations, remarkably attentive service, and an overarching vision from highly

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< FOIE GRAS / AHI TUNA AT ELIZABETH CHEESECAKE DESSERT AT SIXTEEN >

two in Chicago, Carrie Nahabedian of Naha and Brindille being the other), Regan is a force of nature—literally. A forager, she revels in unexplored flavors and pairings; the Midwestern forest is her playground. A warning: It is a meal that one cannot describe without the liberal usage of quotation marks. talented chefs. But there, the similarities end.

Elizabeth (4835 N. Western Ave., Unit D, Chicago, 773-681-0651) is an improbable restaurant in an improbable location. It’s hidden in a shopping strip on Western Avenue, just north of Lincoln Square.

Stepping into this tiny storefront is like discovering a forest glade; it’s filled with natural elements, including Chef Iliana Regan’s notable collection of fanciful owls.

The place feels personal, like you’re being welcomed into a small, private dinner. And the service feels that way, too. One of very few Michelin-starred female chefs in the United States (and one of only

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Haven’t tried bear before? You’ll find it in jerky form, albeit a tiny square, on top of the wild rice krispie, held together with melted curried marshmallows. It’s known as the “Rock Course,” because it is presented, of course, on a rock.

The bear resurfaces in a delicate dashi broth that’s transformed into a “veil” that tops the wide, nettleinfused lasagna noodle wrapped around homemade ricotta cheese, then gilded with chive flowers and rosy red trout roe.

The portions are small—some almost to the point of precious— but there are many, many courses. The Spring menu began with a

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Petri dish of spruce gel (gorgeous, but the spruce was a bit overwhelming to start a meal) and an eye dropper of herbal tea; next came a ramp-centric terrarium, served in a round glass vessel filled with pickled seaweed and ramps on a bed of “dirt” made of hazelnut flour, chamomile and other various ingredients. It’s what I would serve to Mr. Tumnus if he were stopping by for dinner.

After the aforementioned bear courses came Elizabeth’s famous

shrimp noodles, one delicious spoonful that left you wanting more. A deeply flavored mushroom “tea” followed in a charming china cup, and then a fried maitake mushroom breaded in acorn and barley flours mixed with panko and served with aioli.

It was a flavor bomb, and just as substantial as a piece of meat.

Twice during the meal, we ate what appeared to be a centerpiece. A few courses didn’t quite

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hang together for me; but between the apt wine pairings and the general aura of pixie dust surrounding the meal, those were easy to overlook.

There were three dessert courses, including my favorite, “Fruit Loops,” really dessert masquerading as breakfast. The housemade cereal came in three flavors: strawberry, thyme and porcini.

Fresh cashew milk was poured over the loops, and I have to say it was the pinnacle cereal experience of my life. Also on the plate

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were a gorgeous whole-wheat biscuit and a trompe l’oeil sunnyside-up egg made of goat’s milk custard (the egg white) and alchemized lemon and saffron (the yolk). A truly stunning dish.

Elizabeth is open Tuesday through Saturday for dinner only. You don’t make reservations, per se; you buy tickets online, similar to Next or Alinea. The price is on a sliding scale as well, depending on the day and time of the reservation. It might cost $85 for 15 courses, or it could run you $135.

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JOO AND MIKEY “BI BIM BAP”

Wine pairings for the meal are always $100 per person. Seating and menu structure have changed substantially since it first opened, and apparently for the better. Regan has handpicked every serving vessel used here; the general vibe is fairy tale funky, but delightful.

Sixteen (401 N. Wabash Ave., Chicago, 312-588-8030) is a different animal entirely. There’s a story being told here, but it’s not a fairy tale. You can taste and experience every bit of that second star. Ensconced on the sixteenth floor of the very posh Trump Hotel Chicago (perhaps you’ve seen the low-profile sign?), it’s hard to imagine a more luxe venue. The floor to ceiling windows look out on a spectacular view of the city, and if you are gifted with inclement weather, there’s no better place to watch a storm.

Executive Chef Thomas Lents works with great assurance. His Summer menu reflects confluence of land and sea, from Chicago to

the Far East. Accordingly, each course includes elements of both.

Basically we’re talking 16 courses of conceptual surf and turf.

It takes a confident chef to kick off the meal with a picnic basket of miniature snacks, in this case tiny deviled quail eggs, a fried smelt “chip;” a mouse-sized wax paperwrapped slice of Italian hero; an eensy-weensy version of elotes; adorable fried quail leg and a mini sangria pop; all set up carefully on a checked napkin folded just so. A miniscule snifter of bourbon sweet tea is poured. Unlike Elizabeth, little here is left to chance, and even the fanciful elements are clearly planned to the nth detail.

The following 12 courses are a textural symphony composed of meat and fish, from the gorgeous mosaic of yellowtail sashimi and paper-thin lardo, to the dome of beef tartar coated in osetra caviar pearls; from the charred leek boat filled with crispy sweetbreads, tender razor clams and chan-

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CHAMPAGNE SELECTION AT SIXTEEN

terelles to the ph贸 of lamb with cuttlefish noodles in a transporting broth. The meal culminates with a number of dessert courses, including a choice between seaand land-inspired options. Executive Pastry Chef Aye Fukai is not afraid of flavor, and it shows. Apri-

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cot and almond pair beautifully with celery; chocolate, blueberry and Delice de Bourgogne cheese, maybe not so much.

The service is beyond perfection here; the level of commitment and knowledge on the part of the staff is a thing of beauty. The

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ROASTED VENISON AT SIXTEEN

cheese cart will take your breath away. Every piece of servingware, from glasses to utensils to china, is of the highest quality. Michelin loves luxury, and here, it abounds.

Restaurant Director Dan Pilkey, who selects all of the rare and wonderful beverage pairings (like the food, the beverage list travels around the world), was especially impressive.

Although it’s billed as a ninecourse menu for $185, there are a number of complimentary “surprise” courses; dessert, it must be noted, comes in four parts (predessert, two desserts, and mignardises to end the meal). Beverage pairings will set you back $125 (if you opt for the “Reserve Pairing,” featuring rare vintages from the cellar, count on $750 per person).

There is an a la carte menu available, but the multi-course menu is really why you’re here, right?

So there you have it: a Michelin cage match, as it were. Both

restaurants provide remarkable experiences, but if I had to pick a winner, I’d have to agree with the Michelin man. Sixteen has a chef at the height of his powers with full command of the meal from start to finish (as might be expected of someone with Lents’ professional credentials). Elizabeth is a charming idyll; the work of a chef with tremendous vision and creativity, on her way up and learning as she goes along. I highly recommend both.

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AL FRESCO DINING ON THE NORTH SHORE

BY JULIE CHERNOFF

Doesn’t every meal taste better outside? In the too-short season known as summer in Chicago, there are hundreds of restaurants inviting you to join them in the great outdoors.

Pull up a wrought-iron chair, and grab your SPF 30—these are some of our top North Shore al fresco options with a recommended summery dish to enjoy in the great outdoors.

A COCKTAIL AT LIBERTAD

BARRINGTON PL8 Their Tuna and Avocado Sumiso has lots of diced big-eye tuna and avocado tossed with sake-miso sauce and daikon sprouts. Raw and summery! 736 W. Northwest Hwy., 847-382-1988, pl8simplyasian.com DEERFIELD Bobby’s Deerfield You’ll find me on their patio eating the Augie’s Cackler, a happy marriage of grilled, marinated chicken breast, tapenade, arugula and French feta on a whole-grain Kaiser roll. 695 Deerfield Rd., 847-6079104, bobbysdeerfield.com Tom & Eddie’s I’m hanging with the stroller brigade, a Peanut Butter Cup Milkshake in one hand, and a Blue Chip Burger (blue cheese cream, garlic aioli, tomato, avocado and potato chips on top of a juicy burger) in the other. 740 Waukegan Rd., 847-948-5117, tomandeddies.com

EVANSTON Coast Sushi Now that they’ve got their liquor license, throw back a sake or two with their Crunchy Spider or Spicy Hamachi Roll. 2545 Prairie Ave., 847-328-2221, coastsushi.net Found How about a glass of Found Punch and the Chef’s Board, a rotating selection of house-made goodies, always including interesting charcuterie, cheese and vegetables? 1631 Chicago Ave., 847-868-8945, foundkitchen.com Quince at the Homestead Sit on the veranda with the Club Sandwich of the Week and a Dogfish Head Indian Brown Ale, or enjoy one of Chef Andy Motto’s super-seasonal dishes off the dining room menu. 1625 Hinman Ave., 847-570-8400, quincerestaurant.net GLENVIEW Glenview House Kick back with one of their many craft beers and a pressed Cuban

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ABIGAIL’S CHOCOLATE BREAD PUDDING WITH VANILLIA ICE CREAM AND PEANUT BRITTLE

Sandwich, made here with eighthour braised pork, house-cured duck ham, Manchego cheese and pickles on a telera roll. 1843 Glenview Rd., 847-724-0692, theglenviewhouse.com Hackney’s on Harms A time-honored North Shore tradition: a patio table, a Patty Melt, a half-brick of onion rings, and thou. 1241 Harms Rd., 847-7245577, hackneys.net HIGHLAND PARK Abigail’s I’m crazy about their cocktails, especially teamed with the killer Sichuan Green Beans with cashews and fish sauce aioli, and some Spicy Shrimp Tempura to share. 493 Roger Williams Ave., 847-849-1009, abigails493.com HIGHWOOD Miramar For the true French bistro experience, try a glass of dry rosé and a Fresh Shellfish Platter with oysters, crab claws, clams and

shrimp served with mignonette and cocktail sauces. 301 Waukegan Rd., 847-433-1078, miramarbistro.com LAKE BLUFF Grille No. 43 You can’t get much more summery than Seared Ahi Tuna with chilled roasted veggies, salmon caviar and yuzu-soy sauce. 28800 N. Waukegan Rd., 847-234-7643, grilleno43.com Inovasi They make an awesome Japanese BBQ Pork Sandwich with Kentucky soy, shaved cucumbers, fried leeks, homemade ranch dressing and a side of hand-cut fries that will take you back to the best picnic you never had. 28 E. Center Ave., 847295-1000, inovasi.us LAKE FOREST Authentico Arriba! The Elotitos—marketstyle corn on the cob, dipped in house dressing and rolled in

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PATIO AT CONVITO

crumbled cotija cheese and dusted with ancho chile powder—is the best way to relive a summer street fair while sitting at a table.

770 N. Western Ave., 847-2953500, authenticorestaurant.com

Chicken Wings, done popsicle style in a sweet and spicy glaze, sprinkled with Buddha Dust and dried shrimp powder. Hundreds could be eaten. 125 Randhurst Village Dr., 847398-3636, eofoodanddrink.com

Market House on the Square Revisit July in Cape Cod with the terrific Crab Cake, “more crab than cake,” seasoned with Old Bay and sweet peppers and served—of course—with remoulade sauce. 655 Forest Ave., 847234-8800, themarkethouse.com

NORTHBROOK Zapatista A Mamacita Margarita (all natural and sugar free, but there’s still tequila, fresh lime, lemon and prickly pear juice and agave nectar) and the Campachena Ceviche (citrus-marinated shrimp and crabmeat) can keep me going for a while. 992 Willow Rd., 847-559-0939, zapatistarestaurant.com

LIBERTYVILLE 545 North The Yucatan Fish Tacos are worth the drive—white-corn tortillas filled with grilled mahi mahi, jalapeño pico de gallo, shredded romaine lettuce and chimichurri aioli. 545 N. Milwaukee Ave., 847247-8700, 545north.com MT. PROSPECT Earth and Ocean Of course, the sushi is terrific, but there’s something about The

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NORTHFIELD Three Tarts Bakery One of my favorite summer lunches is their Roasted Chicken and Artichoke Sandwich, followed by a slice of dreamy coconut cake. Throw in a large, freshly brewed iced tea, and happiness is achieved. 301 Happ Rd., 847-4465444, threetartsbakery.com

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SKOKIE Libertad Any Hum Liqueur-flavored cocktail will complement the Asada, grilled skirt steak with tomato, chipotle-goat cheese, herby chimichurri sauce and yucca frites.

Like being on the beach in Cabo, without the sand getting in your food. 7931 Lincoln Ave., 847-6748100, libertad7931.com WILMETTE Convito Café & Market You can hear Lake Michigan in the

background while you eat your Grilled BLT Salmon Salad, served on a bed of baby spinach and arugula and dressed with lime vinaigrette and avocado coulis.

1515 Sheridan Rd., 847-251-3654, convitocafeandmarket.com WINNETKA O’Neil’s It’s the perfect time to enjoy the Thai Duck Salad, a riot of textures and flavors tossed in a gingery dressing. 1003 Green Bay Rd., 847446-7100, oneilswinnetka.com

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PL8’S EDAMAME HUMMUS SERVED WITH CRISPY FLATBREAD

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ASIAN FOOD:

SOMETHING FOR EVERY PALATE

BY JULIE CHERNOFF

December: It’s the time when all thoughts turn to Christmas dinner, at least if you have your priorities straight. And naturally, if you’re Jewish, you’re thinking Chinese food on December 25.

But people, it’s time to branch out.

There’s a whole world of Asian food out there, including Thai, Japanese, Vietnamese, Korean and more. So don’t limit yourself this holiday season… or anytime of the year, for that matter. But please, call first!

Not all of these restaurants are open on the holiday, so keep the list handy for other occasions when only Asian food will do.

BARRINGTON pl8

We love this uber-modern spot. Great sushi, but don’t miss the Chong Ching Noodle Soup or the Dry Stir-Fried Shredded Beef. 736 W. Northwest Hwy., 847-382-1988

CHICAGO Jin Ju

This contemporary Korean restaurant never disappoints,

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from the Pajun scallion pancake with squid and mussels to the Mandoo beef dumplings. And the Kalbi (beef short ribs) are melt-in-yourmouth good. 5203 N. Clark, 773-334-6377 Opart Thai House

There are items here that I haven’t seen on other Thai menus around town, and it’s all fresh and delicious; definitely a step above the basic, but prices are super reasonable. 4658 N. Western Ave., 773-989-8517 54

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Saigon Sisters

Bahn Mi sandwiches and Bao Buns at lunch, but the menu expands at dinner with Lamb Luc Lac, Fish Curry, BlackPepper Tofu and more. And the desserts! So tasty. 567 W. Lake St., 312-496-0090 Sun Wah BBQ

This is the Peking Duck of your dreams. The bird is sliced up at the table and served with steamed buns and fixin’s, then it returns in Duck Fried Rice, and finally a tureen of duck broth.

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BUN XEO AT TANK NOODLE

Tank Noodle

Don’t be too intimidated by this enormous menu. Close your eyes and point; virtually all of the menu at this Vietnamese favorite is worth eating. 4953 N. Broadway, 773-878-2253

EVANSTON Cozy Noodle

It’s the funky décor that really sets this place apart, and if you’re a fan of Elvis and Pez dispensers, you’re in luck.

1018 Davis St., 847-733-0101

DEERFIELD

Joy Yee’s Noodle Kitchen

The Roasted Duck with Red Curry is worth the trip, but really, who could resist a dish called “Tiger Cries” (a spicy grilled steak)? 475 Lake Cook Rd., 847-564-5999

Known for their fresh fruit bubble teas, they also cover the Asian continent with Korean, Chinese, Thai and Vietnamese selections on their extensive menu. 521 Davis St., 847733-1900

Wildfish

Kansaku

Thai Thai Restaurant

I’m pretty sure the “wild” refers to the crazy interior design, although the menu is far from tame. They’ve got excellent sushi and other Japanese selections. 730 Waukegan Rd., 847-317-9453

Inventive sushi rolls and a long list of signature martinis make this a popular spot. 1514 Sherman Ave., 847-864-4386 Lao Sze Chuan

The newest offering in Tony

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Huâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s empire, this Evanston outpost specializes in spice. Ma Po Tofu is a particular favorite. 1637 Orrington Ave.

rin, Cantonese, Szechuan or Hunan dishes, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got you covered here. 1650 Waukegan Rd., 847-729-8383

GLENVIEW

Nobori Sushi

Whether you prefer Manda-

More than just sushi, Nobori features some truly interest-

Dragon Inn North

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ZUKE HON MAGURO WITH GRILLED ASPARAGUS AND PICKED DAIKON AT ROKA AKOR

ing Japanese food, like Saba Niso (grilled mackerel), Uni “Shots” (sea urchin with quail egg and ponzu sauce), and Grilled Squid with Ginger Soy. 1821 Waukegan Rd., 847729-0422

HIGHLAND PARK Hunan Pearl

The menu isn’t particularly innovative, but sometimes all you want is something you recognize. This is Chinese comfort food. 586 Roger Williams Ave., 847-432-5410 Koya

The Jazz Spring Rolls—tofu wrappers filled with avocado, tobiko, aspragus, eel, salmon and tuna—are served with a spicy-sweet sauce for dipping.

Get them. 508 E. Old Elm Rd., 847-266-0891

LAKE FOREST Sushi Kushi Toyo

Presentation is a strong point at this little jewel of a restaurant, one of the Sushi Kushi Restaurant Group’s properties. 825 S. Waukegan Rd., 847234-9950

LINCOLNSHIRE

Simon Lin’s Asian Bistro

Despite the enormous sushi menu, they don’t slight other entrée choices. Try the Special Tofu or the Confetti Chicken for something a little different.

410 N. Milwaukee Ave., 847478-8883

NORTHBROOK Kamehachi

This popular business lunch spot also satisfies at dinner. Opt for the Rock Shrimp Tempura, tender Chilean Sea Bass

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with yuzu and miso, or any of the Udon Noodle dishes. 1320 Shermer Rd., 847-562-0064 Seoul Garden

One of the few Korean restaurants in the North ‘burbs, their menu is a comprehensive tour through this flavorful cuisine. 3416 Milwaukee Ave., 847-390-8390

SKOKIE

Hana Asian Bistro

Be brave and order from the “New Far East Chef Specialties” side of the menu, where you’ll find Salt & Pepper Smelt and Kung Pao Squid.

You can do it! 9434 Skokie Blvd., 847-677-4262 Roka Akor

This gorgeous restaurant features goodies from a ro-

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batayaki grill, cooked over high-heat, smokeless charcoal.

You’ve never had a steak like this before. 4999 Old Orchard Center, 847-329-7650

WILMETTE 153 Akira

You’ll find a little of everything at this neighborhood fave. I like the Spicy Sashimi Salad and the Beef Udon.

1137 Greenleaf Ave., 847-2561133 Tsing Tao

We ate dinner here with a big family group last Christmas, and it did not disappoint. From the egg rolls to the Mandarin Beef, we were able to happily recreate the food of holidays past. Happy sigh. 537 Green Bay Rd., 847251-7760 makeitbetter.net

HOW SWEET IT IS: BEST BAKERIES IN CHICAGOLAND

PHOTO COURTESY OF VANILLE PATISSERIE

BY JULIE CHERNOFF

Chicagoans are carb loaders, and damn proud of it. Weather got you down? Eat some pie. Celebrating a win? Have a cupcake.

Having drinks with the gal pals? Grab some macarons.

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COUTURE CUPCAKE CAFÉ

BEST BREAD Man might not live by bread alone, but if he did, this is where he would stock up.

Baker Miller The first artisan-flour company in Chicago works magic on your daily bread. The play here: Seeded Sunflower Rye. 4610 N. Western Ave., Chicago, 312-208-5639

Hewn Bakery Hand-forged artisan bread (and the crustiest, best almond croissants I’ve ever had) baked fresh daily. The play here: Heirloom Potato, Rosemary & Garlic. 810 Dempster St., Evanston, 847-869-HEWN Little Goat Bakery The public couldn’t get enough of the bread at Girl & the Goat, and you’ve got to give the people what they want. The play here: Sourdough. 820 W. Randolph St., Chicago, 312-888-3455 Best Cupcakes This is a crowded category, to be sure. Is the cupcake craze past its peak? Maybe. But tell that to the hordes waiting outside Sprinkles’ Cupcake ATM. Couture Cupcake Café Designer cupcakes for North Shore fashionistas. The play here: The Jimmy Choo. 1157 Wilmette Ave., Wilmette, 847-728-0509

Jolly Good Fellows Adorable candy store/soft serve/ cupcake bakery hybrid in Lake Forest. The play here: Peanut Butter Cup. 270 Market Square, Lake Forest, 847-861-2000 Magnolia Bakery This NYC import started the cupcake craze. The play here: Banana-Caramel. 108 N. State St., Chicago, 312-346-7777 Molly’s Cupcakes Winner of the Food Network’s “Cupcake Wars,” and known for their fabulous filled cupcakes. The play here: Flourless Molten Chocolate. 2536 N. Clark St., Chicago, 773883-7220 More Chicago’s only “art museummeets cupcake boutique” embraces excess. The play here: Coconut Mango. 1 E. Delaware Place, Chicago, 312-951-0001 Sprinkles Did I mention the lines and the

life-changing Cupcake ATM? The play here: Triple Cinnamon. 50 E. Walton St., Chicago, 312-573-1600 BEST MACARONS These gorgeous almond-meringue confections are all the rage.

Purchase them singly or by the sleeve, but eat them quickly as they are most delicate and tender the first few days.

Bon Macaron So coveted, they are by appointment only. The play here: Milk Chocolate Passion Fruit. 1407 Grand Ave., Chicago, 312-228-4325 Sugar Fixé Their Oak Park store was such a hit, they’ve opened in Lincoln Park.

The play here: Nutella. 958 W. Armitage Ave., Chicago, 773-799-8399 Vanille Patisserie Everything is gorgeous here, but the macarons are the jewels in the crown. The play here: Green Tea. 2108 N. Clark St., Chicago, 773-8684574; 131 N. Clinton St., 773-868-4574

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DESSERTS AT VANILLE PATISSERIE

BEST PIE Pies aren’t just for Thanksgiving, people, it’s important to know what’s what.

Bang Bang Pie The piecrust is made with leaf lard, so you know they’re legit (and definitely not kosher). The play here: Malted Milk Chocolate.

2051 N. California Ave., Chicago, 773-276-8888 First Slice Pie Café Known for their community outreach programs as much as their great pie. The play here: Key Lime.

5357 N. Ashland Ave., Chicago, 773275-4297 Hoosier Mama Pie Pie is ALWAYS a good idea, especially in this sun-filled room. The play here: Ginger Custard. 749 Chicago Ave., Evanston, 847-8688863 BEST PATISSERIES When it comes to pastries, the French know exactly what they are doing. A visit to one of these stores is the next best thing to Paris. Vive la France!

Ambrosia Euro-American Patisserie The croissants! The pastries!

The cakes! Magnifique! The play here: Chocolate Croissant. 710 W. Northwest Highway, Barrington, 847-304-8278 Floriole Café & Bakery The Sophie’s Choice of bakery selections. How do you choose a favorite? The play here: Fruit Galettes. 1220 W. Webster Ave., Chicago, 773-883-1313 Patisserie Coralie This corner café is charming and

very French, much like its owner, Pascal Berthoumieux. The play here: Coconut-Mango-Passion Fruit “Egg.” 600 Davis St., Evanston, 847-905-0491 Toni Patisserie & Café The perfect stop after visting the Seurat at The Art Institute. The play here: Éclair. 65 E. Washington St., Chicago, 312-726-2020 BEST HOME-STYLE BAKED GOODS Rule #1: Frosting is omnipresent.

Rule #2: Brownies and cookies are on point. Rule#3: Crazy good

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SELECTION OF BAKED GOODS AT HEWN BAKERY

selection makes choice impossible. Solution: Screw the diet. Buy out the joint.

Baker Boys It’s all good…with the added extra bonus of homemade frozen custard. The play here: Cheesecake.

733 St. Johns Ave., Highland Park, 847-433-0430 Bent Fork So adorably cute, especially the little vintage kitchen store attached. The play here: Banana Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake. 333 Waukegan Ave., Highwood, 847926-4438 Sweet Mandy B’s Comfort dessert mecca is here.

The play here: Red Velvet Cake.

1208 W. Webster Ave., Chicago, 773-244-1174 DECO CAKES Whether wedding or birthday, congrats or goodbyes, every occasion is made sweeter with a special dessert—and these baker-

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ies “take the cake” to new heights.

Alliance Bakery Take a gander at the onsite gallery to get a feel for what they can do with fondant. Unbelievable stuff. The play here: 3-D Custom Cake. 1736 W. Division St., Chicago, 773-278-0366 Three Tarts Bakery This fabulous all-butter bakery can do it all, but the deco cakes are the pinnacle. The play here: Wedding Cake. 301 S. Happ Road, Northfield, 847-446-5444 Tipsycakes Another master of fondant and dimensional design. They can build anything. The play here: 3-D Custom Cake. 1944 N. Damen Ave., Chicago, 773-384-4418 BEST EUROPEAN BAKERIES So cosmopolitan, so refined. These bakeries will class up your act.

Café Selmarie A beautiful spot in Lincoln Square.

You’ll swear you’re in Vienna. The

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play here: Sacher Torte. 4729 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago, 773-989-5595 Gerhard’s The individual desserts here are three-star restaurant gorgeous.

The play here: Chocolate Marjolaine. 720 N. Western Ave., Lake Forest, 847-234-0023

Deerfields Bakery Baking since 1886 and still going strong. The play here: Apple Almondine Kuchen. 201 N. Buffalo Grove Road, Buffalo Grove, 847-5200068; 813 Waukegan Road, Deerfield, 847-945-0068; 25 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg, 847-534-0068

Il Giardino del Dolce The biscotti. The cannoli. Espresso, per favore! The play here: Sfogliatelle Napoletane. 2859 N. Harlem Ave., Chicago, 773-889-2388

Swedish Bakery Swedish, sure, but so much more…they also make a great cannoli. The play here: Toska Torte. 5348 N. Clark St., Chicago, 773561-8919

BEST OLD SCHOOL BAKERIES If you need a donut, a birthday cake, a box of cookies or a selection of Danish, head in this delicious direction.

Tag’s Bakery A must-stop destination on charming Central Street. The play here: Florentine Cookies. 2010 Central St., Evanston, 847-328-1200

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CHICAGO AREA BREWPUBS WORTH THE TRIP

B Y L A U R A L E V Y S H AT K I N

The Chicago craft beer scene is starting to resemble great beer towns like Portland, Ore. and Brooklyn, N.Y. These welcoming Windy City spots vary in their food offerings, from basic bar food to sophisticated menus, and even a few that let you order in. Either way, they’re sprouting up to great public fanfare. Here’s an overview of some of those worth a sip—or a growler.

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Atlas Brewing Company Owners Ben and John Sallers named their brew pub after the old classic Atlas Brewery which was around from 1896 through Prohibition. The pub grub is pumped up a notch; the burger might be made of short ribs and the panini filled with mushrooms, and the brews work well with the

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fare. Join them on Wednesdays for a free 7 p.m. brewery tour, and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss the whiskey barrelaged Obfuscation Imperial Stout.

2747 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago, 773295-1270 DryHop Brewers Brewmaster Brant Dubovickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s brews are a balance of acidity, bit-

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RIBS & WAFFLES PAIRED WITH AN ANTI-HERO IPA AT REVOLUTION BREWERY

terness, aroma and mouth feel at this Lakeview gem. His hop-centric ales inspire not only the beer but the menu, where the thick-cut pork chop and green curry mussels are made precisely for the drink. 3155 N. Broadway, Chicago, 773- 857-3155

brilliantly with India’s Panic Attack IPA or the lighter Curly Tail Golden Ale. Their global wine list and extensive cocktail menu don’t hurt, either. 623 Howard Street, Evanston, 847-491-6778

Lake Bluff Brewing Company Just north of Lake Forest, this 5-year-old brew house is doing it the local way, brewing an array of approachable beers using local ingredients and keeping distribution close. The fare tends toward more standard bar food while the focus stays on quality brew techniques. A kid’s menu keeps it family friendly, too. 16 E. Scranton, Lake Bluff, 224-544-5179

RAM Restaurant and Brewery One of the earliest brewery and restaurant chains to spread from Washington to the Chicago area, this gastropub (three locations in the area, 30 total nationwide) is more polished than most. Still family owned, the ambitious menu values local ingredients, includes a kids menu, and works to highlight the Belgian White Ale and the Big Red beers, to name a few. 700 N. Milwaukee Ave., Wheeling, 847-520-1222

Peckish Pig As Howard Street morphs into a new restaurant row, this contemporary American gastropub stands out. Dishes like a slowroasted pork shoulder, rosemaryskewered shrimp or a quinoa and kale salad are washed down

Revolution Brewing This stretch of Logan Square’s Milwaukee Avenue bustles even more since the launch of this brewpub. They produce up to 50 styles of beer, so you’re sure to find one suitable to wash down an array of menu options, from

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< COCKTAIL AT PECKISH PIG DUNKELWEISS BRINED CHICKEN AT SMYLIE BROTHERS >

up starting August 15 to subscribe to their CSA-like beer program.

825 Chicago Ave., Evanston, 847859-9051

mussels and fish’n’chips to handtossed pizzas. Fill up your kegs and can at the Kedzie Avenue brewery, which you can tour as well. Brewpub: 2323 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, 773-227-2739; Brewery: 3340 N. Kedzie Ave., Chicago, 773-588-CANS Sketchbook Brewing Company Slated to open by September, this newcomer is a communitysupported “nanobrewery” funded through Kickstarter. Brewing partners Cesar Marron and Shawn Decker are passionate home brewers that will now make enough to share via tastings and growler fillings for walk-ins. Sign

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Smylie Brothers Brewing Company This Evanston newcomer brews up its own interpretations of classic beers with great success.

Taste through the entire lineup for under $15; it’s just the right foil for their smokehouse options, including pulled chicken or ribs, or a fresh hand-tossed pizza straight out of the wood-burning stove. 1615 Oak Ave., Evanston, 224-999-7320 Temperance Beer Company This casual tap room, situated in back of an industrial space, offers 4-ounce tasters, half pints and pints. The fun part: it’s BYOF, where the F is Food. Although they do offer tasty empanadas from local favorite Tomate Fresh Kitchen, you can also order in or bring in your own grub and enjoy and taste through their line-up of

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craft beers like the Gatecrasher, Restless Years or a Freedive.

2000 Dempster St., Evanston, 847864-1000 Tighthead Brewing Company Like Temperance, you can tour and taste beer at this quaint north suburban tap house, but youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll need to order food in from a lo-

cal restaurant. Named for Master Brewer and owner Bruce Dirâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rugby playing days (his position), the beers go from blonde and red ales all the way to Czech-style Pilsners, along with additional seasonal and special beers to their pleasing. Take a tour to get the story and a taste. 161 N. Archer Ave., Mundelein, 847-970-9174

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BURGER AT THE DAWSON

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OUR FAVORITE

BRUNCH SPOTS RIGHT NOW

BY JULIE CHERNOFF

Brunch is my favorite mashup. It’s two…two…two meals in one, and not only is that a timesaver—let’s face it, who has time for two meals on Sunday morning when you’ve already slept through the first one?—but it’s clearly meant as an excuse for day drinking.

But a bottomless Mimosa or a fabulous Bloody Mary bar does not necessarily a great brunch make. It is, after all, about the food. Give me a fluffy omelet filled with sautéed ramps and Gruyère and a great piece of toast (preferably with mashed avocado?) and I will nap afterward with a smile on my lips.

For the record, these are acceptable after-brunch activities: • Walking it off.

• Reading by the fire or in a park, depending on weather.

• Swinging on swings, kids optional.

• Napping wherever.

Now go forth and brunch.

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Bakin’ and Eggs

Blind Faith

Breakfast sandwiches available on a croissant, biscuit or in a burrito? And you can have Parmesan on your breakfast potatoes? This place really gets me. Plus, they’re owned by the folks at Lovely Bake Shop, so you know this is seriously tasty stuff. 3120 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago, 773525-7005

You don’t have to be vegetarian to love this brunch, with offerings like the Aztec Hash or the Warm Apricot Banana Crepe.

And might I recommend the Hawaiian Sunrise smoothie?

Good morning! 525 Dempster St., Evanston, 847-328-6875

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Café Selmarie

The menu here changes

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BAKIN’ AND EGGS’ BLT BREAKFAST SANDWICH

regularly, but look out for the Black Bean & Corn Chilaquiles Casserole or the CheddarChive Biscuits with Country Sausage Gravy, because cheese makes EVERYTHING better. 4729 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago, 773-989-5595

are terrific, likewise the Sunday Omelette with melted leeks, shiitake mushrooms and Fontina cheese, but the Pullman Loaf Toast, people.

The toast. 4539 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago, 773-506-9300

Fat Rice

Kanela is Greek for cinnamon, and Chicagoan for delish.

You’ll be ordering the Loukoumades (Greek doughnuts with lemon-honey syrup and toasted walnuts), the Bacon-Infused Waffle and the Spicy Feta Omelette. The one that cannot get away: the amazing Duck Confit Hash with charred scallions and sunny-side-up eggs.

Opa! 1552 N. Wells St., Chicago, 312-255-1206; 1408 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, 773-661-1010; 3231 N. Clark St., Chicago, 773248-1622

Clearly the Portugese Egg Tart—made with puff pastry, custard, “love and secrets”—is a must, but don’t miss the Macanese Hash, made with stir-fried minced pork and beef, fried egg, potato and coconut. And the Chive Dumplings are downright addictive. 2957 W. Diversey Ave., Chicago, 773-661-9170 Gather

Yes, the Brioche French Toast with fresh blueberries and whipped vanilla mascarpone

Kanela Breakfast Club

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CINNAMON CREAM CHEESE GLAZE AND CARROT JAM DOUGHNUT AT PERENNIAL VIRANT

Little Goat Diner

Go directly to the “Cereal Killers” section of the menu.

Attempt to choose. My picks include Fat Elvis Waffles, Parathas Burrito, Breakfast Spaghetti ‘n Clams ‘n Crab (Stephanie Izard’s take on Spaghetti Carbonara) or the Kimchee & Bacon & Eggs & Pancakes Asian-Style Breakfast Tasty Thing. It’s brunch, so their “Orange is the New Shake” should be your liquid preference. 820 W. Randolph St., Chicago, 312-888-3455

one of a kind. Get ALL of the House Pastries. Trust me.

2537 N. Kedzie Blvd., Chicago, 773-489-9554 Perennial Virant

This farm-to-table favorite makes all their own condiments and is committed to local farmers and purveyors. Everything here is worth eating, but consider this: Home Fries with Brunkow Cheese Curds.

Walk them off afterward in Lincoln Park. 1800 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago, 312-981-7070

Lula Café

Prairie Grass

If you’re the type that loves red meat at brunch, look no further than Lula’s Hangar Steak and Eggs. Served with a potato-sunchoke cake, winter root relish, fried eggs and charred almond sauce, it’s

Whether you opt for the Smoked Salmon Benedict, the lighter-than-air Lemon Ricotta Pancakes or the Prairie Scramble, it’s impossible to go wrong at this North Shore stalwart. Coffee is strong and

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hot, and service is fantastic.

601 Skokie Blvd., Northbrook, 847-205-4433 Seven Lions

There’s a new Dutch Baby Pancake in town, and this one is sporting caramelized apples and pears and a scoop of rum raisin ice cream. That and the “Green Eggs & Ham” Bene

dict (cilantro hollandaise is the secret) are reason enough to check out Alpana Singh’s latest hot spot. 130 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, 312-880-0130 Taste on Chestnut

The only brunch buffet on the list ($19.95 per person includes coffee, tea or juice), this North Shore newcomer has it all,

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TEN MILE HOUSE’S HANGOVER FRIED RICE

from the chef omelet station to the smoked salmon display; French toast to fresh fruit. But there’s also a few great salads (beet and butternut squash with goat cheese or an “AllAmerican” Cobb) as well as kick-ass Chicken Tacos. Some serious bang for your buck.

507 Chestnut St., Winnetka, 847-441-0134 Ten Mile House

Is there something inherently wrong in enjoying a boozy Lakefront Fizz with my bowl of Hangover Fried Rice? Sorry, 78

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not sorry. Hand me that Veggie Frittata, will ya? 1700 Central St., Evanston, 847-905-0669 The Dawson

This menu is all over the place, and just about every place it goes, you will want to follow. Chicken-Fried Lobster? Sure. Reuben Burger?

Oh, yes. Biscuits and Tasso Gravy? You betcha. Follow any of those up with a piece of Chocolate Toffee Coffee Cake and you have yourself a very serious brunch. 730 W. Grand Ave., Chicago, 312-243-8955

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COFFEE AT BROTHERS K COFFEEHOUSE

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6 COOLEST

COFFEE SHOPS ON THE NORTH SHORE

BY BELINDA LICHT Y CL ARKE

So long, Starbucks! There are groovier spots on the North Shore to grab a cup of joe, get cozy with a good book or meet a friend.

The Brothers K Coffeehouse

The Brothers K has been a local tradition on Main Street in Evanston for nearly 10 years, and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s still a hub of activity all week long. The beans are supplied by Chicago-based Metropolis Coffee Company, and the walls are adorned with an ever-changing variety of local art. Of course, like any successful business, The Brothers K is committed to upgrading its technology on a regular basis. No, not the Wi-Fi speed,

but upgrades to the Italian espresso maker in order to better modulate water pressure and raise the quality of the finished product. 500 Main St., Evanston, 847-328-7940 Caffebene

What makes this new Glenview hangout special is that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a Korean twist on a European coffeehouse, says co-owner and manager, Grace Park. In addition to the traditional coffeehouse menu items such as

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brewed and espresso coffee drinks, croissants, bagels, muffins, cheesecakes and macarons, Caffebene also has Asianinspired menu items such as misugaru (a sweetened fivegrain powder containing barley, black rice, black soybeans, black sesame seeds and brown rice), bubble teas, and bingsu (ice parfaits).

Dollop Coffee Co. & Hoosier Mama Pie Company

Design wise, it’s got a great vibe, and of course, free Wi-Fi. “We have distinctive chandeliers that mimic sparkling stars, and a wall of bookshelves. We’re hoping customers will bring in books, toys or board games to share with other customers.

Customers can get a free small coffee or tea when they donate a book, toy or board game to our library.” 1749 Milwaukee Ave., Glenview, 224-567-8249

“Alongside our delicious, sweet pies (you can expect Blueberry, Peach and Chocolate Cream right now) and wonderful Metropolis roasted coffee, you can also get a bit of the unexpected,” says general manager Rachael Barnhart. “Our Chicken Tomatillo savory pie features a cornmeal crust, bell peppers and salsa verde. We try and feature our baristas’ own concoctions as well, and

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Just steps from the Main Street L and Metra stops is Dollop a combined coffee and homemade pie shop that smells like heaven. While not a huge space, Dollop offers a comfortable couch and long communal tables for chatting, studying or reading.

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are currently featuring ‘The Honey Badger,’ made with soy milk, chai concentrate, honey, almond syrup and, of course, espresso.” 749 Chicago Ave., Evanston, 847-868-8863 Glenview Grind

Glenview Grind—formerly known as the Caribou Coffee at the corner of Glenview and Waukegan roads—is known for its locally sourced, high-quality private-label

roasted coffee and pastries by the famousTag’s Bakery in Evanston. Now patrons can also “Unwind at the Grind” with beer and wine served between 4 and 9 p.m. In addition, Glenview Grind has a robust charity program, which includes raffles to support customer charities, local school gift card programs and donated coffee for local events.

989 Waukegan Road, Glenview, 847-729-0111

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Ravinia Coffee Station

Ravinia Coffee Station is as fun as it gets. “Positive energy, friendly faces, great coffee, great music, and going back to the basics,” says owner Josh Weisbart. “[It’s a] simple concept with great 84

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service.” Located across the street from the Ravinia Metra stop, it’s a great place for commuters, but also for locals looking to hang out and enjoy live music on weekends. 723 St. John’s Ave., Highland Park, 847-8439

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< ESPRESSO DRINK AT RAVINIA COFFEE STATION BAKED GOODS AT GLENVIEW GRIND >

The Rock House

Where else can you get houseroasted coffee, Barnaby’s Pizza and a great selection of fine wines and craft beers? The Rock House in Wilmette, of course. The company’s president, Chris Karabas, proudly describes the quirky coffee house as enjoying a “schizophrenic personality.”

“It’s a great hang because it changes personality throughout the day,” Karabas says. “In the morning, it’s full of people working, or meeting with friends. In the afternoons, it’s full of kids taking lessons, hanging out and parents enjoying some wine while they wait. On weekends, it’s an entirely different thing. We host local and touring acts, and the Wilmette residents have really

responded to it. It feels more like downtown Chicago or Nashville’s ‘Broadway’ when the live music is happening.”

The Rock House even has a private event space, where customers can host everything from kids’ birthday parties to political fundraisers to fullblown parties for adults. 1150 Central Ave., Wilmette, 847256-7625

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THE RUBEN AT MANNY’S DELI

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MAX AND BENNY’S CORNED BEEF DINNER

THE

BEST DELIS IN CHICAGOLAND

BY JULIE CHERNOFF

Some say that the only good delis are on the East and West coasts—but that’s a fallacy.

What are we, chopped liver?

Chicagoland is definitely in the mix. We’ve got the old and venerable (Manny’s has been around since the ‘40s) and the brand spanking new (hello, “it” restaurateur Brendan Sodikoff’s Dillman’s in River North), with a respectable number landing in between.

Bat 17 The breads are baked fresh daily at award-winning Bennison’s and the meats hail from Chicago’s own Kelly Eisenberg Gourmet Deli Products (the chicken and turkey are free-range). The

enormous and inventive sandwiches come in regular and full sizes, but I dare you to finish either. 1709 Benson Ave., Evanston, 847-733-7117 Burt’s Deli Open since 1975, this hard-tofind, Kosher-style deli is a local treasure. The “Yummy” sandwich (corned beef, pastrami, melted Swiss cheese and a schmear each of mustard and horseradish on fresh rye bread) is one for the ages. 114 Greentree Center., Libertyville, 847-367-9687

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Dillman’s This is not your Bubbe’s deli, but Dillman’s was certainly inspired by it. Warm Goat Cheese Schmear? Lox and Whitefish Terrine? This is updated deli food.

But don’t fret; you can still find a Classic Reuben, a Potato Knish, some Matzo Ball Soup, even Pickled Herring. Don’t get fahrklempt!

354 W. Hubbard St., Chicago, 312988-0078

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Eleven City Diner Nothing kosher about this South Loop joint (hello, BLT!) and its newer sister restaurant in Lincoln Park, but you won’t be disappointed by these stylish sandwiches, especially “The Schwartzy,” moist, smoked beef brisket piled high on a tender challah roll. They also make a mean burger. 1112 S. Wabash, Chicago, 312-212-1112; 2301 N. Clark St., Chicago, 773-244-1112

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ELEVEN CITY DINER’S CORNED BEEF

Kaufman’s Roaring back to life after last year’s fire, and better than ever, Kaufman’s is your source for Hanukkah platters laden with brisket, kugel and latkes, with some tsimmes on the side. All breads and baked goods are made from scratch on site. Counter service only, but you can grab a sandwich and a seat in the newly refurbished space. 4905 W. Dempster St., Skokie, 847-677-6190

kosher hot dogs. But you’ll also find “Bohemian Wraps” and a thoughtful gluten-free menu.

Something for everyone! 461 Waukegan Rd., Northrook, 847272-9490

Manny’s Coffee Shop & Deli You’re here for the hot Corned Beef and Pastrami, preferably piled high together on some slabs of fresh rye bread. A little deli mustard, a nice dill pickle…it’s all happening here at Chicago’s longtime-favorite cafeteria. 1141 S. Jefferson, Chicago, 312-939-2855

Max’s Deli Sometimes it feels like all of Highland Park and Northbrook try to squeeze in here for Sunday brunch. Styled on the New York delis of yore, the menu is stuffed with cabbage, kreplach and kishkes along with plenty of other tasty noshes. I love the Hoppel Poppel–scrambled eggs with chunks of salami, potato, onion and green pepper. Takes me back 40 years to lunch at the Esquire Deli with my grampa. 191 Skokie Valley Rd., Highland Park, 847-8310600

Max and Benny’s In the Schlan family for 25 years, this huge (300 seats) restaurant is full of classic deli choices, from beet borscht to chicken matzo ball soup and lox and bagels to

Once Upon a Bagel The blintzes! The corned beef hash! The huevos con chorizo!

Wait! What? Lots of deli faves, fresh bagels, and a few Mexican dishes thrown in make this mini-

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chain (there’s also a Once Upon a Deli in Northbrook) a little different. Order and pay at the counter and the staff will bring it out to your table. 1888 1st St., Highland Park, 847-433-1411; 1050 Gage St., Winnetka, 847-784-1411 Silverberg’s Deli Owner/”Macher” Phil Silverberg promises an “authentic Jewish Delicatessen Experience,” and he should know from that, growing up the “son of a deli maven.” The recipes are Bubbe Fay’s, from the fried matzo to the mish-mosh soup. 701 Milwaukee Ave., Vernon Hills, 224-206-7063 Srulies Essen Delicatessen This strictly Kosher (and lactosefree) restaurant is a carryout deli located in the Wi-Fi Building, where you’ll find seating in the open lobby. It’s old-style with a twist, like a three-layer kugel with potato, lokshen and kishka, or a pastrami egg roll. They do big business in catering. 8170 N. McCormick Blvd., Skokie, 847-676-3333

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The Bagel Restaurant Both locations of this North Shore stalwart feature a ridiculously large menu, but you can’t go wrong with the omelettes, chicken soup, salads and deli sandwiches. I will be forever fond of the Old Orchard location, site of many family meals with young children, the bread basket and the pickle bowl on the table for hungry tummies. 3107 N. Broadway, Chicago, 773-477-0300; 50 Old Orchard Shopping Center, Skokie, 847-677-0100 Road Trip: Zingerman’s This do-not-miss deli is all that and then some. It’s a must for any trip in Michigan; if your kids are headed to U of M, you are in luck! Happily, they have a bustling mail-order business, so you can order their amazing breads, cheeses, meats and condiments online. They even have a Zingerman’s Reuben Sandwich kit for overnight delivery. 610 Phoenix St., Ann Arbor, MI, 888-636-8162

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SUPERDAWG

HEY DINERS, DRIVE-INS AND DIVES:

LISTEN UP!

BY JULIE CHERNOFF

Yo, Guy Fieri! Give me a minute, dude. Love your show, and you’ve featured a fair number of solid Chicago joints over the last umpteen seasons of Triple D, which I appreciate. But bro-ski, you’re killing us here on the North side. We’ve got some awesome places with killer food, but we are getting none of your love.

Check out the list below for some of our faves, including some cool ethnic spots that you’ve missed. Hit us up!

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COZY NOODLE’S CRAZY BROWN RICE

Ba Le Sandwich & Bakery

Cozy Noodle

Bite into perfectly crusty, freshly made Vietnamese baguettes stuffed with pickled daikon and carrots, fresh cilantro and your choice of filling. Go for the lemongrassmarinated BBQ pork or the Vietnamese meatballs. 5014 N. Broadway, Chicago, 773-5614424, balesandwich.com

The grooviest Thai restaurant around, the walls are lined with wacky collections of vintage lunchboxes, Pez dispensers and bobble heads under the approving gaze of a giant Elvis (white jumpsuit and all).

Great lunch specials, and the menu ranges from mild to spicy. Filled with college students. 1018 Davis St., Evanston, 847-733-0101, cozyevanston.com

Burt’s Place

A true mom & pop, everything here is freshly prepared

by Burt, who also happens to have the most incredible, heroic beard. You need to make a reservation and order your pizza in advance, but don’t let that deter you. At least you know they won’t run out of dough before you get there!

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Cross Rhodes

Carrying on in the tradition of late owner Jeff Russell, they’ve got the best Greek salad, spanakopita, gyros and Greek chicken around. I’ve been eating here for 23 years and I still crave it. And if you can resist the super-rich double chocolate cake, you’ve got more will power than me! 913 Chicago

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Ave., Evanston, 847-475-4475, crossrhodes.biz Lucky Platter

Former owner Eric Singer is a lover of outsider and garage sale art, and this place has a funky-cool feel that brings in families and hipsters for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

From the beloved Apricot Cheese Flakey to the Tandoori Chicken Sandwich and Pasta

with Turkey Meatballs, this is Evanston’s soul food. And psst! Guy! There’s a Friday night Prime Rib special you’ll dig. 514 Main St., Evanston, 847-869-4064, luckyplatter.com Michael’s Chicago-Style Redhots

Mr. Fieri, it’s never too late for your bar mitzvah, and I suggest you have the party here (like every other kid on the

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North Shore). Natch, they have great char-broiled dogs, burgers and fries, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the chopped salads that have the parents lined up. 1879 2nd St., Highland Park, 847-432-3338, michaelshotdogs.com

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Pita Inn

The lunch line is insane, and one bite of the chicken shawarma or kifta kabob is enough to make you a believer. I love the fatoush salad and the gourmet falafel

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PITA INN’S SHAWARMA

sandwich. Great for party deliveries, too. Glenview, 847-759-9990; Skokie, 847677-0211; Wheeling, 847-8087733, pita-inn.com Prairie Joe’s

If there’s a better place to play “I Spy,” I have yet to find it.

Filled with the fanciful art of owner Aydin Dincer and random garage sale finds, the menu boasts homemade soups, awesome vegetarian and diner specials, fountain favorites and more. 1921 Central St., Evanston, 847-491-0391, prairiejoes.com Superdawg

First opened in 1948, their trademark 12-foot hot dog icons still proudly stand at the corner of Devon, Nagle and Milwaukee Avenues

on the city’s NW side. It’s the classic Chicago hot dog stand, writ large. I’m a fan of the “Whoopskidawg,” their version of a Polish sausage, especially in their whimsical packaging. Everything is “super” here! 6363 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, 773763-0660; 333 S. Milwaukee Ave., Wheeling, 847-459-1900, superdawg.com Tank Noodle

You’re not here for the atmosphere (which, for the record, is mostly formica and fake plants). Wait in line, cram into your table, and prepare your taste buds for a ride. From self-wrapped spring rolls to congee, hot steamy pho to seafood fire pots, it’s a wild one.

4953 N. Broadway, Chicago, 773-878-2253, tank-noodle.com

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TASTE OF CUBA’S CHORIZO EGG SANDWICH

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THE TUNA MELT AT TEDDY FABZ

Taste of Cuba

Teddy Fabz

Pressed Cuban sandwiches filled with roasted pork, sliced ham and pickles are at their best paired with a tropical mango milkshake, especially with a side of Yuccas Fritas with house mojo sauce. And the Ropa Vieja!

Dios mio! The closest youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll get to Cuba without a visa.

3918 W. Touhy Ave., Lincolnwood, 847-674-2822, tasteofcubacafe.com

They will win your heart with their fry basket. Zucchini sticks, fried pickles (with apricot chipotle sauce!), onion rings and sweet potato fries will bring you joy (and add a few pounds). This family-owned business is a neighborhood favorite. 663 Lake Cook Rd., Deerfield, 847-498-5656, teddyfabz.com. 500 Main St., Evanston, 847-328-7940

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AVLIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S LAMB SALAD

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STAYCATION:

EXPLORE ETHNIC RESTAURANTS

BY JULIE CHERNOFF

No need to head out of town for exotic eats. Take a staycation and avoid the airfare! Chicago is a melting pot of wonderful cultures.

Rich with ethnic neighborhoods, Chicago and the North Shore feature some of the most flavorful and interesting options available in the U.S. And Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m thinking beyond our many Italian, Mexican, Japanese andor French restaurants.

So take advantage of the diversity outside our front doors and expose your family to some of these wonderful ethnic eateries. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a lot cheaper than round-trip tickets!

Eastern European Little Bucharest Bistro Romanian (3661 N. Elston Ave., Chicago, 773-604-8500)

Russian Tea Time Russian (77 E. Adams St., Chicago, 312-360-0000) Smak-Tak Polish (5961 N. Elston Ave., Chicago, 773-631-6171) Zhivago Russian (9925 Gross Point Rd., Skokie, 847-982-1400) Dishes to Explore: Each country has their specialties.

Polish: Pierogi (stuffed dumplings), kielbasa, golabki (stuffed cabbage) Romanian: Gulas (vegetarian goulash); Skirt Steak with onions, peppers and

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mushrooms; Veal Paprikash (braised in a paprika sour cream sauce); Mamaliga (soft polenta with crème fraiche and feta cheese) Russian: Borscht, Pelmeni (seasoned beeffilled Russian dumplings), blini and caviar, kotlet Pozharski Kotlety (chicken croquettes)

Dishes to Explore: Injera, the spongy, pancake-like traditional bread of Ethiopia, is the perfect way to transport delicious Yesmir Watt (spicy red lentils), Doro Tibs (chicken cubes with lemon juice, garlic, onions and jalapeno) and Yebeg Alicha (lamb stew with onion, garlic, ginger and basil) to your happy mouth.

Ethiopian Addis Abeba (1322 Chicago Ave., Evanston, 847-328-5411) Ethiopian Diamond (6120 N. Broadway, Chicago, 773-338-6100) Ethiopian Diamond II (7537 N. Clark St., Chicago, 773-764-2200)

Greek Avli (566 Chestnut St., Winnetka, 847-446-9300) Cross Rhodes (913 Chicago Ave., Evanston, 847-475-4475) Greek Islands (200 S. Halsted St., Chicago, 312-782-9855)

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ETHIOPIAN DIAMOND

Dishes to Explore: Rich Moussaka (Greek eggplant casserole with egg custard topping); crispy Spanakopita (spinach-stuffed filo); filling Pastitsio (Greek pasta casserole); Dolmathes (stuffed grape leaves); grilled lamb and octopus; and Baklava (sweet filo pastry layered with nuts and honey) Indian Curry Hut (410 Sheridan Rd., Highwood, 847-432-2889) India House (228-230 McHenry Rd., Buffalo Grove, 847-5205569), Mt. Everest (630 Church St., Evanston, 847-491-1069), Tiffin (2638 W. Devon Ave., Chicago, 773-338-2143) Dishes to try: Crispy, potato-filled Samosas and veggie Pakora (basically, Indian tempura) dipped in tamarind or cilantro sauces; enormous Dhosa (paper-thin, lentil-flour crepe); earthy Dal Makhani (lentil stew); flame-colored Tandoori Chicken cooled with cucumber Raita;

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spicy Lamb Vindaloo; Biryani Rice dishes and hot Naan and Roti breads to scoop it all up.

Korean Jin Ju (5203 N. Clark St., Chicago, 773-334-6377) San Soo Gab San Korean (5247 N. Western Ave., Chicago, 773334-1589) Super H Mart (801 Civic Center Dr., Niles, 847-581-1212) Dishes to Explore: Bi Bim Bop (rice bowl topped w/ veggies, beef, spicy red pepper sauce and a fried egg); Bulgogi (thinly sliced marinated, grilled beef); Pajun (fried scallion pancake); steamed or fried Mandoo dumplings; and of course, Kimchi Chee (spicy pickled cabbage) are the classic dishes not to be missed.

South American Fogo de Chao Brazilian (661 N. LaSalle Dr., Chicago, 312-932-9330) La Fonda

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SAIGON SISTERS

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FOGO DE CHAOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CHILEAN SEA BASS

Colombian (5350 N. Broadway, Chicago, 773-271-3935) Tango Sur Argentinean (3763 N. Broadway, Chicago, 773-477-5466) Dishes to Explore: Argentinean: Empanadas filled with cheese and sweet corn, herby Chimichurri sauce on your juicy steak Asado, Dulce de Leche (caramel filling) for dessert; Brazilian: Pao de queijo (warm cheese bread), Feijoada (black bean and meat stew), grilled Churrasco meats; Colombian: Arepas (stuffed white corn cakes), Sobrebarriga (braised beef brisket in creole sauce), Arroz con Pollo (chicken and yellow rice).

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Vietnamese Pasteur (5525 N. Broadway, Chicago, 773-878-1061) Pho 777 (1065 W. Argyle St., Chicago, 773-561-9909) Saigon Sisters (567 W. Lake St., Chicago, 312-496-0090) Tank Noodle (4953 N. Broadway, Chicago, 773-878-2253) Dishes to Explore: Hot and nourishing Pho (delicious broth with noodles and meats); sugar cane with shrimp paste; light Goi Cuon (spring rolls); Com Tay Cam (rice clay pot); Banh Xeo (Vietnamese pancake with seafood); and Bahnnh Mi (fabulous sandwiches with fresh pickled veggies) will make you feel like youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re in Hanoi.

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DMK BURGER BAR

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HAMBURGER HEAVEN

BY JULIE CHERNOFF

Let’s talk about last meals.

You know, the one where you no longer have to worry about calories and cholesterol. If I could eat anything with no fear of digestive repercussion, it would be a big, juicy burger—hands down. Luckily, we live in a town that takes its meat VERY seriously.

Here are some “Ground Meat Epiphanies” to immediately add to your Burger Bucket List (you know you have one).

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GRIDDLED

DMK Burger Bar

Au Cheval

Yes, I’m a little late to the party on this one, but there’s a bandwagon for a reason, people. I don’t mind waiting a few hours to eat this scrumptious prime beef burger, griddled to perfection and served (with cheese, of course) on a toasted bun. The double burger will set you back $12.95.

Don’t forget to add the peppered bacon, too. 800 W. Randolph St., Chicago, 312-9294580, auchevalchicago.com 106

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Possibly the best Patty Melt ($9.50) in town, this one is made of grass-fed beef and sandwiched with smoked bacon, burnt onions, smoked Swiss cheese and remoulade sauce between two slices of hearty griddled rye. Add the sweet-potato fries with lemon Tabasco aioli and that’s a serious party in your mouth. 2954 N. Sheffield Ave., Chicago, 773360-8686; DMK Burger & Fish, 815 Noyes St., Evanston, 847424-8226, dmkburgerbar.com

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SHAKE SHACK’S SHACKBURGER

Edzo’s

They’ve gotten a lot of fawning press, and deservedly so. ChefOwner Eddie Lakin is so on top of his game that even his TURKEY Burger ($5.50) is craveworthy, and that’s saying something. In other news, the beef burgers will knock your socks off. And who needs socks? 1571 Sherman Ave., Evanston, 847864-3396, edzos.com Shake Shack

Freshly ground and griddled, 100 percent all-natural Angus beef—Shake Shack doesn’t mess around. Opt for the SmokeShack ($6.45), crowned with cheese, applewoodsmoked bacon, chopped cherry peppers and Shack Sauce. If you can escape without ordering a Salted Carame‘L’ Concrete (vanilla custard, banana

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and a Glazed & Infused salted caramel doughnut), I admire your inner strength. 66 E. Ohio St., Chicago, 312-667-1701, shakeshack.com

GRILLED 25 Degrees

Sure, the Sirloin Burgers ($9) here are juicy and yummy, but what sets this place apart is the sheer depth and breadth of the cheese options for your creation: 15 artisanal cheeses, ranging from Grand Cru Gruyère to Cardona goat, Pleasant Ridge Reserve and Vella Toma. And no, Kraft Deli Deluxe is not an option. 736 N. Clark St., Chicago, 312-943-9700, 25degreesrestaurant.com Beatrix

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THE POUTINE BURGER AT BOTTLEFORK

“healthier” restaurant actually makes a wonderful Prime Burger ($13.95), served on whole-grain toast with aged white cheddar and spicy house-made giardiniera and a side of crispy Kennebec fries.

519 N. Clark St., Chicago, 312284-1377, beatrixchicago.com Bottlefork

Chef Kevin Hickey’s woodgrilled ground Bacon Burger ($17) is a thing of beefy beauty.

The exact ratio is 70 percent beef/30 percent bacon, which adds a delightful smokiness to the mouth feel. Top that with Vermilion blue cheese, a tangle of shoestring potatoes and some “special sauce,” put it on a buttered brioche bun, and it’s a last meal you can look back fondly upon. Um, hold up a sec… 441 N. Clark St., Chicago,

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312-955-1900, bottlefork.com Fountainhead

If you follow him on Twitter, chef Cleetus Friedman is a riot. But the man is dead serious when it comes to his Fountainhead Burger ($14), a half-pound of tasty ground meat on a sturdy pretzel bun, accompanied by excellent fries.

If you want to gild the lily (smoked gouda or Gruyère cheese, sautéed mushrooms, bacon, etc.), it’ll cost you, but yum. Drown your sorrows in the city’s most comprehensive whiskey list. 1970 W. Montrose Ave., Chicago, 773-697-8204, fountainheadchicago.com Guildhall

The glorious Guildhall Burger ($16) is the play here.

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topped with Morbier cheese, bacon, caramelized onion and whole grain mustard on a stellar pretzel bun. Add in their hand-cut pommes frites and you are in like Flynn. 694 Vernon Ave., Glencoe, 847-8358100, guildhallrestaurant.com 110

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Peckish Pig

This new Evanston fave makes an awesome Lamb Burger ($13), served on a pretzel bun with goat cheese, mango and lime mayo and a side of addictive cumin fries. Definitely feeling that British vibe. makeitbetter.net

BURGER AND FRIES AT PECKISH PIG

623 Howard St., Evanston, 847491-6778, thepeckishpig.com Spritz Burger

What happens when the Hearty Boys join forces with Gale Gand? Magic. And crowds. But at the end of that long line waits a perfect Mushroom Swiss Burger ($15), the grass-fed beef patty piled high with Swiss cheese, a six-mushroom ragout, truffle aioli, mushroom ketchup, and greens on a carb-worthy bun. Go to it. 3819 N. Broadway, Chicago, 773-8689866, spritzburger.com Umami Burger

Umami, the fifth taste: unctuous flavor bombs that get your mouth super excited. The West Coast import’s signature blend of beef shines brightest in “The Original” ($12)

topped with a Parmesan frico, shiitake mushrooms, roasted tomato, caramelized onions and Umami house ketchup, each element designed for maximum impact. Save room for Smushed Potatoes. 1480 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, 773423-2005, umamiburger.com

ÜBER-LUXE House 406

This up-and-comer brings the substance with their eightounce Blue Cheese Burger ($25), laden with heirloom tomatoes, arugula, shaved red onion and aioli on a pretzel bun, accompanied by zesty Cajun fries. When you’re talking a 50/50 mix of ground-in-house rib-eye and filet, it’s worth the dough. 1143 1/2 Church St., Northbrook, 847-714-0200, house406restaurant.com

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BAR TOMA

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THEIN BEST PIZZA CHICAGOLAND

BY JULIE CHERNOFF

Much to my endless chagrin, I totally missed the boat when it came to the late, lamented—and highly lauded—Great Lake Pizza in Andersonville.

I just couldn’t deal with the lines, and the uncertainty that they could run out of dough while I was standing in said line, which translates to (horror of horrors): NO PIZZA.

binations, like this one with Caprino goat cheese, hazelnuts, melted leeks, dates and thyme, drizzled with aged balsamic vinegar. Wow. 110 E. Pearson St., 312-266-3110

So this year, my mission is to seek out pizza perfection. Listen, it’s a tough job, but someone’s gotta take one for the team.

Here are some of the pizzas I recommend so far, chosen from all around Chicago and the North Shore.

Barnaby’s I’d be terrified to leave this off the list, ‘cuz this place has a serious following. I’m fond of spinach and mushroom on their thin cornmeal crust. 960 Skokie Blvd., Northbrook, 847-498-3900

Bar Toma Tony Mantuano’s wood-burning oven sends out some wild com-

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Burt’s Place Order ahead, and your pizza will greet you. Otherwise, you’ll wait awhile. Load up with veggies and

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MOROCCAN SPICED LAMB SAUSAGE PIZZA AT LA MADIA

you’ll be a happy camper (spinach, mushrooms, mixed peppers, onions). 8541 N. Ferris Ave., Morton Grove, 847-965-7997 Candlelite The thin-crust Candlelite White pizza is sassy. Your breath will be, too. Roasted garlic spread, caramelized onions,mozzarella, provolone, parmesan and goat cheeses.

Hello, lover. 7452 N. Western Ave., Chicago, 773-465-0087 Francesca’s Intimo I’ve got a thing for their Napoletana pizza, topped with arugula, cherry tomatoes, garlic, EVOO, provolone and shaved Parmesan, especially if you add prosciutto for an extra $2. 293 E. Illinois Rd., Lake Forest, 847-735-9235 La Madia My favorite summer pizza combination: this indulgent white pizza romances with burrata cheese, fire-roasted Nichols Farm summer squash, and cherry tomatoes. 59 W. Grand Ave., Chicago, 312-329-0400

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Merlo’s I was not expecting this to be as tasty as it was. We went simple with prosciutto and arugula. Well, kind of simple. 581 Roger Williams Ave., Highland Park, 847-266-0600 Panino’s Head straight for the ArtisanStyle Pizza section on the menu, and order the Capricciosa: fresh mozzarella, tomato sauce, artichokes, roasted cremini mushrooms, prosciutto, Kalamata olives and EVOO. 1968 Dempster St., Evanston, 847-475-6200; 28 S. Fairview, Park Ridge, 847-823-3450 Piece This is the only New Haven-style pizza in town, so treat it with respect. Go for the classic White Pizza with clams, bacon and fresh garlic. No, really. 1927 W. North Ave., Chicago, 773-772-4422 Saranello’s This thin-crusted pan pizza is mighty fine, especially when topped with crispy pepperoni,

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fresh garlic and hot peppers. 601 N. Milwaukee Ave., Wheeling, 847777-6878 Siena Tavern Even if I wasn’t infatuated with Chef Fabio Viviani, I’d still crave this Pear and Prosciutto Pizza, slathered with roasted garlic cream and topped with oozy mozzarella and taleggio cheeses, grilled pears, and fresh arugula.

And the crust… yum! 51 W. Kinzie St., Chicago, 312-595-1322 116

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Spacca Napoli I’m in love with the combination of Salsiccia e Broccoletti: Italian sausage, broccoli rabe and provolone cheese. É molto bello. 1769 W. Sunnyside Ave., Chicago, 773878-2420 Trattoria DOC This Neapolitan-style, thin-crust pizza needs a minute to sit on your table before you dig in. I like the Gustosa: fresh mozzarella, asparagus, ham, egg and shaved

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< UNION PIZZARIA SARANELLO’S PIZZAS

Parmesan. 706 Main St., Evanston, 847-475-1111

give me for my sins. 1245 Chicago Ave., Evanston, 847-475-2400

Trifecta Grill There’s something about their BBQ Chicken Pizza. Maybe it’s the addition of gorgonzola cheese and cilantro… 501 Chestnut St., Winnetka, 847-441-1700

Viccino’s Try the Chicken Bravo, with marinated chicken breast, tomato, broccoli and roasted garlic on whole wheat crust. 1905 Glenview Rd., Glenview, 847-724-9500; 1431 Peterson Rd., Libertyville, 847573-0001; 300 S. Happ Rd., Northfield, 847-784-9500; 1960 1st St., Highland Park, 847-266-8300; 2773 Pfingsten Rd., Glenview, 847498-3888

Union Pizzeria I dream of their wood-oven pie, especially the Pinn-Oak Lamb Sausage with roasted eggplant, greek olives and rosemary. For-

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TACO JOINT

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TACO TOWN

TACOS YOU HAVE TO TRY

BY JULIE CHERNOFF

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If you think a taco consists of a crispy taco shell with some sautéed chopped meat, shredded cheese and iceberg lettuce, this is not your article. Move along. I’m talking about the real thing, not some Tex-Mex travesty.

Listen, I’m not asking for much: A homemade, soft corn tortilla; a piece of grilled or battered fish; some cabbage slaw and chipotle mayo…a few simple ingredients, but when done right, the stars align and what happens in your mouth is taco alchemy.

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It used to be that you had to go to Pilsen or Humboldt Park (or, of course, Frontera Grill) for a true Mexican-style taco, but in the past few years, Chicago has seen a taco explosion. You’ll find them everywhere on menus from Lincoln Park to Rogers Park,

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BIG STAR TACOS

from Evanston to Lake Forest.

And not just at dedicated taco establishments—of which there are many—or Mexican restaurants. Tacos have hit mainstream menus (Hola, Chipotle! Hey there, California Pizza Kitchen!) and show no sign of stopping.

Why all the fuss? Well, because deliciousness. And texture contrast. And flavor. And portability.

Each ingredient has the opportunity to shine; you can eat a few at a sitting and the price is right.

It’s the perfect dish in our smallplate world.

So, let’s talk taco. Here are some (but emphatically not all!) of the Chicago-area restaurants currently producing a righteous taco.

Antique Taco Don’t be distracted by the Duck Fat Flautas or the Horchata milkshake at this Wicker Park hipster hangout. Eyes on the prize: the River Valley Market Mushroom Taco (two to an order, $7),

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topped with vinegary escabeche and cilantro cream on a housemade tortilla. Distinctive and delicious. 1360 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, 773-687-8697, antiquetaco.com Authentaco I’m a sucker for chorizo (spicy pork sausage), so I opt for the Chorizo with Sweet Potato Pastor and Crema Taco ($3)—so many textures!—but the Alambre Taco (carne asada with bacon, onion, rajas and cheese) is another solid choice. And those tortillas! Dios mio. 1141 N. Ashland Ave., Chicago, 773-360-7345, authentaco.com Bar Takito So many good things to eat here… including (but not limited to) the Coffee-Braised Beef Tacos (four per order, $16), served on a “beer tortilla” and topped with cherry tomatoes, Oaxacan queso, jalapeños, cilantro and peanuts. Not a meat lover? Opt for the Brunkow Cheese Tacos with pickled jicama,

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avocado and aji peanut sauce. 201 N. Morgan St., Chicago, 312-8889485, bartakito.com

or more (Big Star Taco Bar)! 1531 N. Damen Ave., Chicago, 773-2354039, bigstarchicago.com

Big Star I’m torn here, because they are all SO FRICKING DELICIOUS. But the Taco al Pastor ($3) is truly a thing of beauty, sporting marinated and spit-roasted pork shoulder, caramelized grilled pineapple, sweet grilled onion and fresh cilantro. They’ll even take the show on the road for parties of 10

Carnitas Uruapan I came down here 20 years ago for the first time, but they’ve been open since ’75, serving up tacos filled with crispy chunks of Pork Carnitas, along with classic Michoacan side dishes like chicharrones (crispy pork cracklings), home-style refried beans and cactus salad. Incredibly tasty and

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TALL BOY TACOS

authentic, but be forewarned: they are cash only, and closed on Thursdays (random, I know, but you don’t mess with genius).

1725 W. 18th St., Chicago, 312-2262654, carnitasuruapanchi.com Cookies & Carnitas While they don’t make their own tortillas (they use El Milagro), they do have incredible Braised Goat tacos served with smoky beans, Chihuahua and Cotija cheese, cream and house salsa.

And did I mention the Beef Brisket tacos? We forgive them.

5757 & 5759 N. Broadway St., Chicago, 773-769-2900, cookiesandcarnitas.com DeCero If you’re looking for great tacos on restaurant row, look no further. I’m partial to the Battered Shrimp Taco ($3.75 or three for $10.25) with avocado crema, red onion, avocado and cilantro, or the crazy-good Duck Confit Taco with spicy corn salsa, queso fresco and cilantro. Bonus points:

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fresh-muddled Coconut Mojitos.

816 W. Randolph St., Chicago, 312455-8114, hellotacos.com Frontera Fresco The tortillas here, like at the Mother Ship, Frontera Grill, are made by hand. The Chipotle Chicken Tacos ($3.95 each/two for $7.25) are juicy, smoky and a little bit spicy, topped with roasted onion, Jack cheese, avocado and cilantro. The Short Rib Tacos ($4.50 each/two for $8.75) are sinfully rich. Westfield Old Orchard, Skokie, 847-329-2638, fronterafresco.com G.T. Fish & Oyster Listen, I realize that this isn’t a taco place. But they do seafood here, including some of the best Fish Tacos ($13 for three) I’ve ever had. Garlic-marinated and tempura-fried mahi mahi shares the love with chipotle aioli, frisée lettuce and a sprinkle of crushed chicharron for added salty crunch.

Wow. 531 N. Wells St., Chicago, 312-929-3501, gtoyster.com

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La Casa de Isaac & Moishe The Taco Plate ($6.95 for two) comes with your choice of two meats, among them lengua (beef tongue) and tinga (shredded chicken and onions simmered in chipotle sauce), and topped with shredded lettuce, chopped tomato, onion and cilantro. Rice and beans included, and for that I am eternally grateful. 2014 First St., Highland Park, 847-433-7400, lacasadeisaac.com Summerhouse Santa Monica Don’t get confused. You’ll just feel like you’re in California when

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you sit beneath their glass roof eating the Surfer-Style Fish Tacos ($23.95 for four build-your-own tacos), blackened and woodgrilled mahi mahi to be piled high in warm corn tortillas with guacamole, cabbage slaw and salsa verde. Dude, they are RAD. 1954 N. Halsted St., Chicago, 773-6344100, summerhousesm.com Taco Nano!

This is our office treat when we have been very, very good. The Vegetariano Taco ($2.50 each) feels substantial, with crispy potatoes, poblano rajas, mush-

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CHICKEN TINGA TACO AT TACO NANO

rooms, Cotija cheese and cilantro sharing space in the warm tortilla; or try the Pato en Mole Negro ($4 each), duck confit in mole with pickled red onion, queso fresco and sesame seeds.

All that, plus fried plantains! 1743 Orchard Lane, Northfield, 847-3867159, taconano.com Tall Boy Taco Tucked inside Nacional 27, this newcomer is making a strong showing. They get the brisket for their Cowboy 12-Hr. Smoked Brisket Taco ($4) from fellow Lettuce Entertain You property Bub City, then goose the flavor with salsa de arbol and cilantro. Predictably, I loved the Chorizo con Rajas Taco ($3.50), with lots of caramelized onions and a sprinkling of queso. Good news: the full Nacional 27 drink menu is available. 325 W. Huron St., Chicago, 312-488-4917, tallboytaco.com Taco Joint Hand-pressed tortillas here have

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a nice heft to them, especially when paired with the braised beef Barbacoa Taco ($3) with roasted red jalape単o salsa or the spicy Yucatan-style Cochinita Taco ($3), pulled pork with pickled red onions and habanero salsa. 1969 N. Halsted St., Chicago, 312-9512457; 158 W. Ontario St., Chicago, 312-337-8226, tacojoint.com Tacos El Norte Possibly the most extensive taco offerings ($2-$3 each) around, including carnitas, barbacoa, tongue, eggs & chorizo, al pastor, shrimp, chile relleno and ground beef picadillo, all served in classic style in doubled soft corn tortillas with chopped onions and cilantro. Back to basics here; sour cream, avocado and cheese are extra. No frills but super tasty. For the curious, soft flour or hard-shell tacos are available upon request, but HAVE I TAUGHT YOU NOTHING? multiple locations including Libertyville and Waukegan, tacoselnorte.org.

110 E. Pearson St., 312-266-3110

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LADIES’ NIGHT OUT:

RESTAURANTS FOR FUN AND FROLIC

BY JULIE CHERNOFF

Grab a group of girlfriends and head out to one of these fun spots for adult beverages, fun atmosphere and tasty eats.

It’s Ladies’ Night! Live it up a little!

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS La Tasca

Tapas are always festive! The original small plates concept, and sangria to boot. 25 W. Davis St., 847-398-2400

CHICAGO

RPM Italian

Über hot and delicious, so make your reservations now for whenever they’ll take you and then organize your friends. 52 W. Illinois St., 312222-1888

Allium

DEERFIELD

So artsy, comfy couches, flattering lighting, plus great food. It’s happening! 120 E. Delaware Place, 312-799-4900

Sushi rolls and sake bombs.

Get it! 730 Waukegan Road, 847-317-9453

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Wildfish

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EVANSTON The Cellar

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have a mini burger and a Cosmo, please. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m on a diet.

820 Clark St., 847-425-5112 Found Kitchen & Social House

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furniture to make you feel at home, and stunning food by Chef Nicole Pederson. Owner Amy Morton knows how to keep the fun going. 1631 Chicago Ave., 847-868-8945 Union Pizzeria/SPACE

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WATERMELON SALAD AT THE CELLAR

head into SPACE for the live music. Feel so hip. 1245 Chicago Ave., 847-475-2400

GLENCOE Guanajuato

HIGHLAND PARK Bluegrass

A little BBQ, a little bourbon, and we’ll call it a night. 1636 Old Deerfield Road, 847-831-0595

White Sangria and their fish tacos are my choices. And avocado ice cream for dessert… 72 Green Bay Road, 847-242-0501

La Casa de Isaac

GLENVIEW

HIGHWOOD

El Jardin

Their Bloody Mary is a knockout, and the food is authentic…and kosher! 431 Temple Ave., 847-433-5550 Miramar

You’re going to get the poolsized margarita and a ride home. 1831 Tower Drive, 847729-9888

Salad Nicoise and a glass of dry rose…make that a bottle. 301 Waukegan Ave., 847-433-1078

Flight

Market House on the Square

Impressive breadth of wine flights and really nice small plates. 1820 Tower Drive, 847729-9463

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LAKE FOREST

We love their recent facelift, and they’ll be glad to see yours! 655 Forest Ave., 847234-8800

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LIBERTYVILLE

NORTHBROOK

Fun atmosphere, great burgers. 412 N. Milwaukee Ave., 847-362-6688

It’s Ladies’ Night all day here…lots of lunching and the drinking starts kind of early!

2124 Northbrook Court, 847498-4321

Mickey Finn’s Brewery

LINCOLNSHIRE Wildfire

Check out their famous Happy Hour. 235 Parkway Drive, 847-279-7900 Viper Alley

Great music venue; wear leather. 275 Parkway Drive, 847-499-5000

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Di Pescara

Pinstripes

Bocce, bowling, wonderful outdoor space, and decent Italian food make for a fun evening. 1150 Willow Road, 847-480-2323

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MATZO ENCHILADAS AT LA CASA DE ISAAC & MOISHE RESTAURANT

WINNETKA

Happ Inn

Why are you not already here? Everyone else is. 305 Happ Road, 847-784-9200

SCHAUMBURG Tokio Pub

Exotic cocktails, noodles and sushi. A winning combo! 1900 E. Higgins Road, 847-278-5181

SKOKIE Libertad

They make the most of Hum liqueur, and I like it! Amazing food, by the way. 7931 Lincoln Ave., 847-674-8100

WILMETTE Depot Nuevo

Our office parties often start (and end) here. Love that Pomegranate Margarita! 1139 Wilmette Ave., 847-251-3111

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Trifecta Grill

Whether you choose the wine room or Blueberry Mojitos at the bar, you’ll be happy. Warning: noise can be deafening!

501 Chestnut St., 847-441-1700

WHEELING Pete Miller’s

Red meat. Red wine. Friends.

Ahhh. 412 N. Milwaukee Ave., 847-243-3700 Saranello’s

Wines on tap, yummy pan pizzas and tiramisu. I call that an evening well spent. 601 N. Milwaukee Ave., 847-777-6878

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SLURPING TURTLE

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CHICAGOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BEST

RAMEN

BY AMBER GIBSON

Chicken noodle soup may be the quintessential American comfort food, but as more chefs are embracing Asian flavors and techniques, the rise of ramen is indicative of an increasingly adventurous casual diner.

Even in a simple meal out, guests are more open to unfamiliar flavors and the rich, unctuous ramen broth has become so ubiquitous that it can no longer be called exotic. From a Michelin-starred restaurant throwing ramen on the bar menu to new restaurants dedicated solely to this Japanese delight, here are some of our favorites in Chicago and the northern â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;burbs.

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Acadia

The bar food at this South Loop restaurant keeps regulars coming back weekly, and while the lobster roll and burger have been muchlauded, on Sundays you can now get Tonkatsu Ramen too.

Chef Ryan McCaskey gets his noodles handmade from Chinatown and seasons them with 48-hour sous vide pork shoulder, BBQ pork belly, 2 0 1 5 D I G I TA L D I N I N G G U I D E

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woodear mushrooms, bean sprouts, sambal, charred scallion and spicy lobster oil. 1639 S. Wabash Ave., Chicago, 312360-9500 Furious Spoon

Chef Shin Thompsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s grandfather ran a ramen shop in Japan and he hopes to bring that same Tokyo style to Wicker Park with affordable prices and late night hours.

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scratch like grandpa did, with a special-order machine from Japan, which you can see in action from a prime bar perch.

The menu features veggie, chicken and pork ramen, along with apple hot sauce, pickles and handmade gyoza dumplings. Ramen-eating tip from chef Shin: slurp your noodles in 10 minutes or less since they continue to cook in the hot broth. 1571 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, 773-687-8445

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RAMEN AT FURIOUS SPOON

Belly Shack

At chef Bill Kim’s unassuming restaurant under the Western blue line ‘L’ stop, find a creative porky Lechón Ramen with Puerto Rican flair. A creamy broth spiced with chilies and chimichurri sauce is piled high with slices of juicy lechón, marinated overnight then cooked in the rich broth. Chunks of Genoa salami and a few crispy tortilla chips top off this carnivore’s dream. 1912 N. Western Ave., Chicago, 773-252-1414 Yusho

Visit chef Matthias Merges’ Japanese izakaya for Sunday Noodles—for $20 you get a choice of noodles, house-made soda or draft cocktail plus some seasonal soft serve. Ramen options range from maitake mushroom with angry

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red miso and tofu to the popular Logan Poser ramen with pigtail, fishballs and hen egg.

The regular menu features ramen too, but with fewer options. 2853 N. Kedzie Ave., Chicago, 773-904-8558 Sunda

Pick your own ingredients for a DIY Miso Ramen at this River North hotspot. For both lunch and brunch you can choose from 17 different toppings, including sliced Korean beef, bone marrow, fish cake and seaweed. The basic noodles, with poached egg, scallion and carrots starts at $8 but can easily rocket past $20, even for a vegetarian bowl. 110 W. Illinois St., Chicago, 312-644-0500 Slurping Turtle

Chef Takashi Yagihashi want2 0 1 5 D I G I TA L D I N I N G G U I D E

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ed to offer guests his version of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Japanese comfort cuisine,â&#x20AC;? and his bestselling Tonkatsu Ramen with thin housemade noodles and silky pork broth has been on the menu since day one. Bok choy, mustard greens and braised wood ear mushrooms balance the meat and a touch of chili oil adds heat. Feel free to slurp. 116 W. Hubbard St., Chicago, 312-464-0466 136

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High Five Ramen

Find the hidden door in Green Street Smoked Meats and descend into the dark and gritty basement for the best ramen in the West Loop. Snag one of the bar stools and pick between one of four different ramens, then watch the small kitchen prepare your bowl. Try the namesake High Five Ramen for an explosion of spices, melt-

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BELLY SHACK’S VEGGIE RAMEN

in-your-mouth slices of pork belly and springy noodles. If you don’t have a high tolerance for spice, opt for a half-spice version. 112 N. Green St., Chicago, 312-754-0431 Santouka

Find this food court ramen franchise in the back of Asian food emporium Mitsuwa Marketplace. The Salt Ramen is simple, but consistent—a mild, creamy soup topped with pickled Japanese plum.

Soybean paste and soy sauce flavors are also available. Order a combo set to add sides like negi meshi (rice topped with condiments) and pickled egg to your meal. The dining experience is akin to a cafeteria—pick up your food, bus your own tables and fetch your own water. 100 E. Algon

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quin Road, Arlington Heights, 847-956-6699 Ramen Misoya

This Japanese chain has more than 40 locations worldwide and the Chicagoland outpost is inside an unassuming Mount Prospect strip mall. Serious Eats declared it the best ramen in all the land in 2013 and it’s still worth seeking out. Super savory broth with thick, perfectly pliable noodles is garnished with fried potatoes, agedashi tofu or fried shrimp, along with your choice of vibrant, assorted veggies. 1584 S. Busse Road, Mt. Prospect, 847-437-4590 Tapas are always festive! The original small plates concept, and sangria to boot. 25 W. Davis St., 847-398-2400 2 0 1 5 D I G I TA L D I N I N G G U I D E

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PATIO AT BRIDGE HOUSE TAVERN

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THE BEST CHICAGO

RIVERFRONT RESTAURANTS

BY ANDREA GUTHMANN

Before summer slips away and autumn leaves start blowing through the Windy City, make sure to get out on the water.

No boat? No problem! The Chicago River has plenty of places for dining and drinking in the views of the waterfront. A night along the river will leave you with lasting memories of why you love Chicago. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll need those warm memories once winter kicks in again!

Smith & Wollensky Known for their beautifully aged steaks, the view here of the Chicago River is also a cut above.

Adjacent to the Loop on bustling State Street, Smith & Wollenkyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s two-story restaurant offers an

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impressive view of the river and features a large outdoor patio, open during pleasant weather, spring through fall. 318 N. State St. (On the River at Marina City), 312-670-9900 Chicago Burger Company Looking for more casual fare?

The name pretty much says it all. This is a burger joint with a million-dollar view. In addition to classic burgers, they also offer healthier options like turkey and veggie burgers, and a leafy Caesar salad. 901 E. North Water St. (Riverwalk level), 312-464-1000

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Bridge House Tavern Three blocks west of Michigan Avenue, on the northeast corner of Clark Street, this is the only restaurant along the main branch of the Chicago River where you can dock a boat for free. The vibe is “polished casual” and you can order cocktails and appetizers or enjoy a full meal. 321 N. Clark St. (River Level), 312-644-0283 Cyrano’s Cafe & Wine Bar This charming pastel-colored shack on the south side of the river, just east of the Michigan Avenue Bridge, makes for a simple

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yet classy night out. Metal patio tables and chairs are set up along the river to enjoy the twinkling lights of the city. You can’t get any closer to the water, but there’s no indoor area, so if the weather’s not great, they might close for the night. Beers cost $4 on Mondays, half off appetizers after 5 p.m. on Tuesdays, half off mixed drinks on Wednesdays, half off your second bottle of wine on Thursdays. Open May through October. 233 E. Lower Wacker Drive, 312-616-1400 Japonais No plain patio furniture here.

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SHASHIMI AT JAPONAIS

Instead, think sexy and uber hip. Imagine lounging on a day bed, sheltered by sheer drapes, watching the boats along the north branch of the Chicago River float by. If you’ve got a yen for sushi, head over to this tranquil oasis, but don’t forget the outdoor space is only open for dinner (unlike the indoor restaurant, which is open for lunch and dinner). 600 W. Chicago Ave., 312822-9600

Elle on the River Chicago’s newest waterfront restaurant has a distinctly tropical vibe with its spiked fruity punches and Mediterranean-style menu that includes specialty mahi mahi tacos, with ingredients. Located in River North, between the State and Wabash Bridges, this is the casual outdoor option to the Langham Hotel’s upscale Travelle restaurant. 330 N. Wabash Ave., 312-923-9988

South Branch Guess where this al fresco hot spot is? You guessed it: the south branch of the Chicago River. The bustling outdoor patio between the Adams and Monroe Street Bridges is the place for the apreswork crowd, drawing heavily from the surrounding Loop buildings.

It’s directly across the river from Union Station, making it easy to stop by and have a beer or glass of wine before catching the train home. Closed on weekends. 100 S. Wacker Drive, 312-546-6177

The Terrace at Trump Jaw-dropping views of the skyline and Chicago River are waiting for you on the 16th floor of the Trump Hotel Chicago. Open from 2 p.m. until midnight, this rooftop patio serves tapas items, sandwiches and shareable seafood platters, as well as dessert. There are also imaginative crafted cocktails, including drinks served in ice sculptures. Just keep in mind those liquid works of art start at $65. Cheers! 401 N. Wabash, 312588-8030

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THE DUKE RIBEYE AT RMP STEAK

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NOT FOR MEN ONLY:

A GAL’S GUIDE TO STEAKHOUSES

BY JULIE CHERNOFF

The world over, Chicago’s known for a few things: Al Capone, Michael Jordan, wind velocity and red meat.

Long a bastion of the macho male, the steakhouse was the classic Chicago restaurant, filled with stinky cigars and great slabs of beef from the infamous Chicago Stockyards.

But not any more! The restaurants have realized that women make most of the decisions when it comes to eating out, and for them to stay vital (and solvent), they need to reach out to their desired female clientele. That means diversifying their menus.

And our suburban favorites are doing just that–mixing up Pome-

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granate martinis, chopping or grilling sushi-grade tuna, featuring adorable mini Kobe burgers, and more. Feel the love?

So next time you’re heading out with the girls (or your significant other… he’ll thank you for it!), consider one of the following for a night on the town.

Sprinkled throughout our communities, these steakhouses are waiting for you to discover them. If you crave red meat, it’s there for the taking. But if not, you’ve got plenty of interesting options. Steakhouses are not for men only anymore!

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Bavette’s Bar & Boeuf (Chicago) Girly Highlights: Champagne Smash Cocktail; Salmon Tartare; Smoked Trout Caesar; Buttermilk Fried Chicken; Steak Frites; EloteStyle Corn; Gold Brick Sundae.

EJ’s Place (Skokie) A real old-style supper club feel, with the classic wait staff clad in white coats and aprons–it’s a steak house with the soul of an Italian restaurant.

Chicago Cut Steakhouse (Chicago) Open for breakfast (!), lunch and dinner, so you can get that steak fix fulfilled at any time.

Girly Highlights: Prime-Aged Filet; Chicken Vesuvio; Spaghetti with Chilean Seabass Arrabbiata (yum!); Mussels Marinara; Chopped Salad with Chicken.

Girly Highlights: Lobsterscargot; Burrata with Vine Ripened Tomatoes; Tuna Tataki with Spicy Ponzu; Delmonico Steak au Poivre; Oven-Roasted Citrus Chicken.

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar (Lincolnshire, Chicago) Unbelievable list of wines by the glass. Also the 5 for $6 until 7 happy hour, with 5 appetizers, 5

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CRUSTED MEDALLIONS TRIO AT WILDFIRE

martinis, 5 glasses of wine (and a great burger) for only $6 each before 7 pm. A major bargain.

Girly Highlights: Tuna Mignon, seared rare with poppy seed au poivre and tomato sherry vinaigrette… it’s the other red meat!

Lump Crab Louis Wraps; Tenderloin Carpaccio with Caper Creole Mustard Sauce; New Zealand Lamb Chops with Campagne Mint Sauce; Salmon Nicoise Salad.

Jimmy’s Charhouse (Riverwoods, Libertyville) A steakhouse with a healthy dose of Greek flavors.

Girly Highlights: Mediterranean Shrimp (sautéed with tomatoes and peppers, baked with feta and fontinella cheeses); Filet Mignon Kabobs; Fried Calamari Caesar Salad; Grecian-Style Pork or Lamb Chops; Wood-Roasted Grecian Chicken; Chopped Steak with Sauteed Onions.

Mastro’s (Chicago) This Beverly Hills import delivers the luxe.

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Girly’s Highlights: Ahi Tuna Tostada; Spicy Mambo Salad; Signature Seafood Tower; Petite Filet; Alaskan King Crab-Black Truffle Gnocchi; Chocolate-Covered Strawberries.

Morton’s (Northbrook, Chicago) There’s a reason that this place remains popular… they are constantly updating their menu and changing with the times, while still catering to their core crowd.

Girly Highlights: Bar Bites Menu (Mini Crab Cake BLTs, Smoked Salmon Pizza, Mini Prime Cheeseburgers); Petite Filet Oskar (with asparagus, fresh crab and Bearnaise sauce); Sea Scallops Wrapped in Bacon; Morton’s Legendary Hot Chocolate Cake.

Myron and Phil (Lincolnwood) After 39 years, Myron & Phil is still a family-owned and operated restaurant. In this era of high-end chain restaurants, you gotta love that.

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PRIME RIB AT CHICAGO CUT

Girly Highlights: Seared Tuna on Mixed Greens; Garbage Salad with Shrimp; Homemade Ceviche; Chopped Liver; Veal Marsala; Marinated Romanian Skirt Steak with Burnt Onions.

Pete Miller’s (Evanston, Wheeling) Great bar scene (the Wheeling joint especially is known for being a hot bed of middle-aged activity) and terrific food.

Girly Highlights: Ginger Mojitos and Sangria-tinis; Firecracker Shrimp; Seared Yellowfin Tuna Medallions with Wasabi Cream; Seafood Chopped Salad (a whole Mexican/Asian thing going on there… a wow!); Creamed Spinach with Bacon and Mushrooms; and Braised Kobe Beef Short Ribs w/Garlic Mashed Potatoes.

RPM Steak (Chicago) So hot right now, it’s incendiary. Lettuce Entertain You scores again with this gorgeous steakhouse.

Girly Highlights: Coal-Roasted

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King Crab; Colossal Tiger Prawns; Grass-Fed Steak Tartare with Chanterelles; Parker House Rolls; Millionaire’s Potato; Nutella Bread Pudding.

Ruth’s Chris Steak House (South Barrington, Northbrook) This restaurant’s New Orleans roots show in the menu.

Girly Highlights: Creole Crabtini; Petite Filet and Shrimp; Shrimp Remoulade; Ruth’s Jumbo Chop Salad; Stuffed Chicken Breast; New Orleans Bread Pudding.

Sullivan’s (Lincolnshire) I love that they had a Susan B. Komen Menu available in October. Clearly reaching out to the female customer! Lovely bar area.

Girly Highlights: Ahi Tuna Tartare; Chilled Seafood Sampler; Cheesesteak Egg Rolls; Filet Duxelles with Cabernet-Goat Cheese Butter; Three Cheese Mac with Garlic Butter Crust; Elderflower and Cucumber Martini.

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BACON WRAPPED SCALLOPS AT SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE

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MASTRO’S RIBEYE

The Tavern (Libertyville) Hmmm… choices, choices. Do you head upstairs to the beautiful, formal dining room or hang out in the new Tavern Lounge with its small plates and icy martinis?

Girly Highlights: Seared Sirloin Sashimi with Horseradish Sauce; Baked Shrimp de Jonghe; The Belgian’s Delight – steamed mussels and truffle-oil frites; 8 Oz. Delmonico Steak with Bleu Cheese Crust; Grilled Asparagus Bruschetta; Mini Kobe Burgers.

Wildfire (Glenview, Lincolnshire) This place is always bustling. I’ve never seen it less than full, no matter what time I go. The martinis are fab!

Girly Highlights: Baked Goat Cheese; Greek Salad; Horseradish-Crusted Filet, wrapped in Bacon; Cedar-Planked Salmon; Tuna Steak Teriyaki with Ponzu Sauce and Wasabi Cream; Lobster Bisque; Ribeye Medallions al Forno with Parmesan Crust and Mushrooms.

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MEXICAN RESTAURANTS TO SPICE UP YOUR LIFE

BY JULIE CHERNOFF

There’s nothing more festive than a Mexican restaurant for a fun get together or special occasion.

And whether you’re toasting with a margarita, sangria or limonata, you can’t help but feel happy, knowing that guacamole will most likely be involved. Enjoy these North Shore and Chicago Mexican restaurants:

CHICAGO

Frontera Grill/ Topolobampo/ XOCO

Welcome to Rick Bayless’ world. Frontera is the one that started it all, Topolo is fine dining and takes reservations, and XOCO is the new kid on

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the block for amazing sandwiches, soups, churros and hot chocolate. 445 N. Clark St., 312-661-1434 Salpicon

Chef Priscilla Satkoff kicks up the flavor a notch, giving 2 0 1 5 D I G I TA L D I N I N G G U I D E

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modern twists to her native Mexican cuisine. 1252 N. Wells St., 312-988-7811

EVANSTON Lupita’s

The weekly dinner specials are the draw here; recent dishes include Quesadillas with Zucchini Blossoms and Halibut Baked in Banana Leaf.

An Evanston classic. 700 Main St., 847-328-2255 152

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That Little Mexican Café

One of the best lunchtime buffets around, and I’m addicted to their tableside guacamole and shaken Porfirio margaritas.

1010 Church St., 847-905-1550

GLENCOE Guanajuato

Named for Chef Margarita Challenger’s hometown, the restaurant delights with specials like El Molcajete, a mix of steak,

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< COCKTAILS AT LAS PALMAS TACO TRIO AT DEPOT NUEVO

grilled cactus, black beans and salsa. Don’t miss the creamy, homemade ice cream in exotic flavors like corn and avocado.

73 Green Bay Rd., 847-242-0501

GLENVIEW Lalo’s

This homegrown, familyowned local chain has its roots in the heart of Pilsen. 1432 Waukegan Rd., 847-832-1388 Las Palmas

With locations in Evanston, Highland Park and Mundelein, Las Palmas blankets the North Shore. Fajitas are a specialty, but save room for the Mexican Hot Chocolate. 1829 Waukegan Rd., 847-998-8700

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HIGHLAND PARK La Casa de Isaac

Owned and operated by a Jewish-Mexican family, they’re closed Friday afternoon and Saturday until 1 hour after sundown for the Sabbath. Love the cultural mash-ups like King David’s Quesadillas with lox, cream cheese and onions, along with more familiar regional dishes.

431 Temple Ave., 847-433-5550

HIGHWOOD Tacos el Norte

Huge, reasonably priced menu with all the usual suspects, plus authentic favorites like Beef Tongue a la Mexicana and Torta Milanesa; this

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CRISPY CALAMARI AT GUANAJUATO

place lacks pretense. 118 Washington Ave., 847-432-1730

plates to tempt your palate.

7931 Lincoln Ave., 847-674-8100

NORTHBROOK

Wholly Frijoles Mexican Grill

Zapatista

Made-to-order guac and Campechana Seviche are a great start to your regional Mexican meal. Beautiful room and great for large parties. 992 Willow Rd., 847-559-0939

PARK RIDGE Hay Caramba

Despite the snow outside, the gorgeous sunlit atrium will make you think you’re in Cabo. A popular stop on the way back from O’Hare. 122 S. Prospect Ave., 847-518-0747

SKOKIE Libertad

Nuevo Latino-inspired, with a fascinating collection of small

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This long-time favorite belies its strip-mall location. Always a wait, but worth it. 3908 W. Touhy Ave., 847-329-9810 Yolo Mexican Eatery

Small and intimate, familyrun Yolo serves dishes you won’t see anywhere else, like Mignon Meztli, a filet in mushroom cream sauce with arbol peppers. 5111 Brown St., 847-674-0987

WILMETTE Depot Nuevo

The Elderflower and Super Fruit Margaritas are reason enough to stop by. Bonus: The food’s super tasty, too. 1139 Wilmette Ave., 847-251-3111

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THE BOARDING HOUSE’S BEET AND GOAT CHEESE SALAD

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SALAD DAZE PART 3

BY JULIE CHERNOFF

So, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been dieting. What else is new? But no plain cottage cheese and pineapple for me!

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I’ve revisited many new restaurants (and a few old favorites) to find the one great salad that I am craving. And they are out there, my friends.

toes and Toma cheese are piled on top with a lemony vinaigrette.

110 E. Pearson St., 312-266-3110

CHICAGO Bar Toma Their namesake salad is the perfect counterpoint to a wood-fire baked pizza. Radicchio and arugula provide the base; then hardboiled egg, fennel, capers, celery, carrots, cucumbers, cherry toma-

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Boarding House Their Kale Caesar Salad, with a red wine-poached egg, white anchovies and Pecorino cheese, is lovely… and healthy-ish! 720 N. Wells St., 312-280-0720 RPM Italian They took an antipasto plate and made it into Giuliana’s Italian Sal-

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BEET SALAD AT BAR TOMA

ad, featuring crisp greens, fresh and pickled veggies, salami and cheese with piquant vinaigrette.

52 W. Illinois St., 312-222-1888 DEERFIELD Bobby’s Deerfield I’m partial to their Chicken Salad, with juicy chunks of pulled, roasted chicken marinated with yogurt and tossed with cucumbers, carrots, peas and fresh dill. 695 Deerfield Rd., 847-607-9104 EVANSTON Found Kitchen and Social House Their Baby Carrot and Beet Salad with house-made yogurt cheese and baby greens makes me remember what I used to like about beets salads. Thank you for not putting goat cheese and walnuts in it. 1631 Chicago Ave., 847-868-8945 HIGHLAND PARK Nieto’s I am really digging their Lobster Cobb with hard-boiled egg, tomato, avocado, Roquefort cheese and Dijon mustard vinaigrette.

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429 Temple Ave., 847-432-0770 LAKE FOREST Market House on the Square This salad tastes just like summer—scallop ceviche with heirloom tomatoes, fresh corn, red peppers, red onions, cilantro, tortilla strips and grilled lime. 655 Forest Ave., 847-234-8800 NORTHBROOK Prairie Grass Café Vegetarian heaven—Chopped Greek salad with romaine, red and green peppers, cucumbers, red onion, red wine-herb vinaigrette and baked feta cheese with spicy banana peppers. 601 Skokie Blvd., 847-205-4433 Zodiac Restaurant at Neiman-Marcus When my mom’s in town, we always stop here: Grilled Lemon Shrimp with hearts of romaine, quinoa, feta cheese, grilled asparagus, toasted almonds and citrus vinaigrette. 5000 Northbrook Ct., 847-509-6750

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PRAIRIE GRASS CAFÉ SALAD

SKOKIE Libertad A classic with a twist, their Peras salad is delish: Asian pears, Cabrales cheese, candied pecans, arugula and balsamic vinaigrette.

7931 Lincoln Ave., 847-674-8100

avocado, eggs, potatoes, green beans… it’s like they know me.

1168 Wilmette Ave., 847-251-3262

WHEELING Saranello’s Try the Wood-Roasted Salmon salad with red and yellow beets and green beans on a bed of mesclun. Ask for the mustard vinaigrette. 601 N. Milwaukee Ave., 847-777-6878 WILMETTE Nick’s Bar & Grill Their “Nics-oise” salad is filled with all sorts of stuff I love: blackened ahi tuna, pickled onions.

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WINNETKA Avli Estiatorio I love their Lentil Salad with Baby Spinach, and I always order it with their lush grilled salmon on top, which I cut into little pieces and parse out amongst the lentils. Food of the (Greek) gods!

566 Chestnut St., 847-446-9300 Trifecta Grill Sure, it’s a Caesar Salad, but here it’s called a “Romaine Bundle,” because they tuck the leaves through a perfect hole in a huge Texas toast crouton. Great presentation! 501 Chestnut St., 847441-1700

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MUST LOVE MEAT:

BUTCHER SHOPS AND CHARCUTERIE

BY AMBER GIBSON

Chicago has a long history with meat.

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From the Civil War to well into the 20th century, we were the country’s meatpacking epicenter, slaughtering, packing and shipping cattle and swine via railroad freezer cars to the furthest reaches of America.

Today, the Meatpacking District is going back to its roots on a small scale with Tete Charcuterie, West Loop Salumi and Publican Quality Meats offering some of the best meat in the city, all within a few blocks of one another.

The resurgence of butcher shops has spread across Chicago and the North Shore.

Restaurants are offering more interesting locally made charcute-

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rie too, so don’t dismiss the charcuterie board as something you could put together at home the next time you’re dining out. Lessons in butchery and how to use different cuts of meat at your local artisanal butcher shop can even help home cooks become more socially conscious carnivores. After all, there are only two tenderloins on each cow, so we should all be exploring the tasty world of shank, round, chuck and brisket.

CHICAGO Tete Charcuterie This new West Loop restaurant has an unparalleled selection of terrines, pâtés and charcuterie that meat nerds will appreciate and savor. Sausages here

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represent countries around the world from Germany to the Philippines (a best-selling longanisa with dried shrimp-fried rice and chili marmalade). Right now, all sausages and pâtés are made in house and they’re working on their own cured meats as well. In the meantime, they are serving a selection of salumi from West Loop Salumi, conveniently located right across the street. 1114 W. Randolph St., 312-733-1178 West Loop Salumi Illinois’ only USDA-certified salumeria just turned one. Owner and salumiere Greg Laketek was inspired to create traditional Italian salumi from his childhood summers in Italy. After spending two

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winters apprenticing with “King of Ham” Massimo Spigaroli outside Parma, Laketek returned home to open his own shop, where he trusses every muscle for culatello, bresaola, guanciale and coppa by hand.

1111 W. Randolph St., 312-255-7004 Howells & Hood Since his days at Markethouse, Chef Scott Walton has been famous for his sausages and pâtés with vivid mustards and pickle accompaniments—each component made in house, of course.

At Howells & Hood, he’s continuing the meat magic with beefheart pastrami, sour-cherry duck galantine, and jagerwurst. On a recent visit, the merguez sausage served over creamy couscous

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THE BUTCHER AND LARDER’S PORCHETTA ROAST

mixed with sweet and tart fruit chutney and a dash of spicy mango harissa was my favorite dish of the night. Decadent for sure, but a meat-lover’s dream. 435 N. Michigan Ave., 312-262-5310 Publican Quality Meats Paul Kahan’s specialty butcher shop, across the street from The Publican, also doubles as a rustic café and gourmet market. On any given day, you might find galantines, terrines and meat pies in the case. There’s both corn- and grass-fed beef, along with whole raw birds and several different cuts of pork and lamb. 825 W. Fulton Market, 312-445-8977 Paulina Meat Market Since 1949, this North Side butcher shop has been a place for Chicagoans to get hard-to-find cuts of grain-fed beef along with Wisconsin veal, Amish chicken and Colorado lamb. The smokehouse offers 10 different kinds of house-made bacon, along with smoked ham hock, beef jerky and

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more than 80 different sausages.

They’ve even expanded into offering hearty entrees like chicken potpie and corned beef hash. 3501 N. Lincoln Ave., 773-248-6272 Gene’s Sausage Shop & Delicatessen A long-time staple for Chicago’s Polish community, this enormous European food emporium is a meat-lover’s dream. There are more than 30 house-made sliced deli meats and 40 different sausages, including more than 10 types of bratwurst, all preservative-free, made with freshly butchered pork and beef in natural casings. Three European smokehouses burn a variety of woods to achieve the nuanced color and flavor differences for each one. 4750 N. Lincoln Ave., 773-728-7243 The Butcher & Larder After closing Mado, where they helped pioneer the whole animal and offal movements in Chicago restaurants, Rob and Allie Levitt

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opened their own butcher shop.

The focus here is on locally and sustainably raised animals from small midwestern farms. Meat is cut to order and the Levitts often host butchering demonstrations as well. 1026 N. Milwaukee Ave., 773-687-8280 NORTH SHORE Homestead Meats The newest kid on the butcher block, Ehran Ostrreicher just opened up shop in Evanston this past April. He honed his skills curing and smoking meats at the now defunct City Provisions.

Smoked ham and turkey might sound basic, but serve as a great benchmark for what quality deli

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meat should taste like. Ostrreicher is originally from Tel Aviv and says he incorporates Mediterranean flavors into his meats, such as the rosemary bacon that he first created at City. He’s even partnering withTemperance Beer just down the street, using their darkest, hoppiest beer to make deeply flavorful beer brats. 1305 Chicago Ave., Evanston, 847-868-8040 Hofherr Meat Co. Being a butcher is in Sean Hofherr’s blood. His great-greatgrandfather was a German butcher in Wurzburg, and his great-grandfather established a meat packing company on Chicago’s South Side. Now, Hofherr

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is sourcing meat from family-run farms in the Midwest, offering customers restaurant-quality steaks, chops and poultry along with specialty game meats and handcrafted charcuterie. Look for new items like scallion and hoisin-flavored duck sausage and Nashville-style hot chicken sausage. 300 Happ Road, Northfield, 847-441-6328 Zier’s Prime Meats & Poultry This old-fashioned butcher shop has been around since the 19th century, evolving from the Wilmette Meat Market to a local grocery store and meat market.

Their claim to fame is grass-fed USDA-prime beef from Creek-

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stone Farms, along with naturally raised veal, lamb, pork and poultry. They also smoke their own sausages and salmon for a complete array of delicious options. 813 Ridge Road, Wilmette, 847-251-4000 Al’s Meat Market Chops and steaks aren’t precut here. Instead, they’re taken out of the cooler and sliced to order. Don’t be intimidated; the friendly butchers are happy to make recommendations depending on your cooking needs. This is a small shop, so call a couple days in advance with any special requests. 1165 Wilmette Ave., Wilmette, 847-256-0070

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