“Chicago At the moment” goals to share the elements of the town many love most and in a metropolis like Chicago, meals is crucial to that mission.
Up to now, hosts Cortney Corridor and Matthew Rodrigues have scouted out among the greatest and hottest Chicago eating places within the space.
Whether or not it was the meals or atmosphere that stood out to the pair, they put collectively a listing of their high eateries so that you can try.
Listed below are their favorites:
Apolonia
The South Loop restaurant brings the up to date cuisines of chef Stephen Gillanders to the desk.
“This spot is altering the meals scene within the South Loop,” Rodrigues mentioned. “Should you don’t attempt their mussel toast, you’re not likely residing.”
It additionally landed a spot on Michelin Information’s 2022 Bib Gourmand lineup for its culinary excellence and affordability.
The Darling
The Victorian-themed lounge boasts a ballroom and library, each of which serve “fireplace” cocktails and leisure, in keeping with Corridor.
“I couldn’t love a spot extra,” Rodrigues mentioned. “Their library room is a surprise — from the performances to the flowery however tasty cocktails.”
Etta
Etta’s two-story department in Bucktown gives contemporary takes on Italian dishes, together with wood-fired pizzas, in addition to pastas and roasted meats.
“That is such a fantastic double date place,” Corridor mentioned. “Nice meals and atmosphere.”
Ever
Chef Curtis Duffy brings his imaginative and prescient to upscale eating at this West Loop restaurant.
“Chef Duffy is so considerate in his method to positive eating,” Corridor mentioned. “Each course was extraordinary.”
“Unbelievable positive eating that doesn’t make you’re feeling like an outsider,” Rodrigues added.
The restaurant earned the Michelin Information’s hallmark stamp of culinary excellence in 2022 with two stars to indicate its wonderful delicacies.
Rose Mary
Rodrigues referred to as chef Joe Flamm, former “High Chef” winner, a “humble genius.”
Flamm’s eatery within the West Loop is loaded with wealthy and expressive Mediterranean flavors.
“This is without doubt one of the greatest meals I’ve had within the metropolis,” Corridor mentioned. “It’s totally different, and the truth that it’s not a steakhouse is refreshing.”
ROOH
The progressive restaurant perched within the West Loop gives reimagined takes on Indian delicacies, whereas additionally preserving its custom.
Rodrigues extremely recommends the Rooster Kohzi, which comes with curry leaves and Kerala Podi Masala.
“Should you love good Indian meals, you’ll love to decorate up and eat on this attractive area,” Corridor mentioned.
RPM Seafood
The water-front restaurant in River North gives a wealthy and flavorful menu, together with a seafood tower that Corridor recommends.
“That is the primary place I carry anybody visiting me in Chicago,” Rodrigues mentioned. “You immediately impress friends with unbelievable views and meals.”
Solazo
After a fireplace pressured Solazo out of its unique West Garden location in 2019, the restaurant moved its meals close to Halfway Airport with a refreshed menu.
The “gem” of a restaurant options up to date Mexican dishes with a variety of tacos, enchiladas and drinks to pair.
“A neighborhood spot with a welcoming vibe,” Rodrigues mentioned of the eatery. “You’ll be ordering each number of taco on the menu.”
Tzuco
Tzuco plates Mexican dishes with French twists introduced by Carlos Gaytán, the primary Latin American chef who earned a Michelin star, in River North.
“You’ve seen Mexican meals served 1,000,000 other ways, however not like this,” Rodrigues mentioned. “Chef Carlos Gaytán has actually created an oasis within the coronary heart of Chicago.”
VU Rooftop Bar
VU Rooftop Bar options sights from the twenty second ground above McCormick Place and sips from its intensive cocktail program.
“You may’t beat the view at VU,” Corridor mentioned. “It’s a fantastic rooftop choice within the South Loop.”
On high of the ambiance, the bar gives ample, upscale meals on its menu.
“I dream about their hen sandwich,” Rodrigues mentioned.