NEW=A review added since the last Dining Guide
Star reviews are based on at least two visits by the Tribune critic.
* = Good
** = Very Good
*** = Excellent
**** = Outstanding
Fork reviews are based on one visit by a Tribune staffer.
1 fork = Good
2 forks = Very Good
3 forks = One of the best
4 forks = Don’t miss it
Credit card key
A American Express
DC Diners’ Club
DS Discover
M MasterCard
V Visa
JAMAICAN/CARIBBEAN
CITY
CALYPSO CAFE
(1 fork)
5211-C S. Harper Ave.
773-955-0229
There’s an alluring vacation vibe and solid Caribbean menu at Calypso, but meals sometimes can be undermined by lukewarm food and rushed service.
RECOMMENDED: Black-bean soup, red snapper, toasted coconut-crust banana cream pie.
OPEN: Dinner and lunch Mon.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $7.95-$15.95
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
NOISE: Conversation-challenged
RESERVATIONS: Not accepted
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible
ISLAND DeLITES RESTAURANT
(2 forks)
2347 E. 75th St.
773-978-3200
This is a spot for great Jamaican-style jerk chicken or fish, though the service is lacking.
RECOMMENDED: Jerk chicken and catfish, curried goat, kingfish escobietch.
OPEN: Dinner and lunch Mon.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $6.50-$10
CREDIT CARDS: DS, M, V
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible
JAPANESE
CITY
KAMEHACHI OF TOKYO
*
1400 N. Wells St.
312-664-3663
Neophyte-friendly options like Sushi 101 (all cooked ingredients) makes this Old Town spot one of the most accessible Japanese restaurants in town. Interior is bright, cozy and clean, displaying framed Japanese prints and a stunning mosaic behind the sushi bar.
RECOMMENDED: Oyster shooters, sushi combinations A and B, nigiri zushi.
OPEN: Dinner Mon.-Sun., lunch Mon.-Sat.
ENTREE PRICES: $6-$15
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Recommended
OTHER: Late-night hours; wheelchair accessible.
MIRAI
***
2020 W. Division St.
773-862-8500
Unimpeachably fresh seafood, imaginative preparations and charming atmosphere make this arguably the best sushi restaurant in town, though the menu offers more than just sushi and sashimi. I wish Mirai had more than 46 seats, although the upstairs bar (which permits smoking) offers some relief.
RECOMMENDED: Monkfish pat, horse mackerel sashimi, otoro tuna sushi, carpaccio trio, tuna steak.
OPEN: Dinner Mon.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $13-$18
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Strongly recommended on weekends
NOISE: Conversation-friendly
OTHER: Valet parking; no smoking in dining room.
SUSHI WABI
**
842 W. Randolph St.
312-563-1224
An urban-chic sushi restaurant with artfully prepared food in a minimalist space highlighted by concrete slabs, structural steel and tabletops of reclaimed timber. The kitchen is a little slow, but displays of nigiri zushi and maki rolls look gorgeous when they arrive, and portions are generous. Assortment platters eliminate the guesswork for neophytes; sophisticates should order a la carte. On weekends a deejay spins industrial pop to progressive jazz at a pleasantly discreet sound level.
RECOMMENDED: Unagi (sea eel), mackerel and uni (sea urchin) sushi, spider maki, dragon maki, seared tuna.
OPEN: Dinner Mon.-Sun., lunch Mon.-Fri.
ENTREE PRICES: $9-$21
CREDIT CARDS: A, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Recommended on weekends
NOISE: Conversation-friendly
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible; valet parking.
TSUNAMI
*
1160 N. Dearborn St.
312-642-9911
Except for the nine-seat sushi bar just off the entryway, this place looks like anything but a Japanese restaurant. Textured walls and faux finishes make up the decor, jazz and soul are the featured music and minimal lighting gives the main dining room a moody, nightclubby feel. But the menu is mostly straightforward Japan-ese, emphasizing sushi and sashimi, with the occasional French- and Italian-accented appetizer thrown in.
RECOMMENDED: Gyoza, combination sashimi, spider maki, sushi-sashimi dinner for two.
OPEN: Dinner Mon.-Sun., lunch Sat.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $12-$50
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Accepted
NOISE: Conversation-friendly
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible; valet parking.
NORTH
AKAI HANA
(2 forks)
3223 W. Lake Ave., Wilmette
847-251-0384
Brightly lit and spacious sushi bar draws a multicultural client mix for its first-rate seafood –raw and otherwise.
RECOMMENDED: Fried oysters, sushi deluxe, sashimi platter, tempura-udon, green tea ice cream.
OPEN: Dinner and lunch Mon.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $8-$18.75
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Accepted for parties of six or more
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible
FUJIYAMA
(3 forks)
3057 Dundee Rd., White Plains Shopping Center, Northbrook
847-714-1319
The Japanese cuisine is fresh and unpretentious at this small eatery, where co-owners Irene and Paul Lee preside over the eight tables and compact sushi bar.
RECOMMENDED: Sushi platter, gyoza dumplings, tempura dishes.
OPEN: Dinner Mon.-Sat., lunch Mon.-Fri.
ENTREE PRICES: $6-$15
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Not accepted
NOISE: Conversation-friendly
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible
NORTHWEST
YURAKU TEI BBQ AND SUSHI
(2 forks)
234-236 E. Golf Rd., Arlington Heights
847-437-2323
Mark and Theresa Nakagawa have achieved a playful teaming of Korean and Japanese fare at this expansive restaurant, where the large sushi bar is banked by numerous private dining rooms.
RECOMMENDED: Woodfield Melt, beef sashimi, Korean-style seafood assortment, combination specials.
OPEN: Dinner Mon., Wed.-Sun., lunch Mon., Wed.-Fri.
ENTREE PRICES: $10-$24
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
NOISE: Conversation-friendly
RESERVATIONS: Recommended for barbecue tables and private rooms
SOUTH
HOUSE OF KOBE
(3 forks)
1951 Wicker Blvd., Schererville, Ind.
219-322-1919
House of Kobe offers rowdy teppan-yaki dining as well as a large variety of pristinely fresh sushi and sashimi. It’s also lots of fun for the kids, making it a great spot for family dining.
RECOMMENDED: Alaskan red salmon steak, stir-fried steak, sushi assortment, saki skin-maki.
OPEN: Dinner Mon.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $7.95-$33
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Required on weekends
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible
KOREAN
CITY
SOJU
(3 forks)
1745 W. North Ave.
773-782-9000
For now, this stylish Korean restaurant is BYOB, so you can’t order its namesake beverage. Console yourself with the Soju chicken, juicy, deep-fried bird served with spicy sauce infused with the Asian liquor.
RECOMMENDED: Soju chicken, kimchi bindae duk (vegetable pancake), kalbi, bulgoggi.
OPEN: Dinner Wed.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $7-$19
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Accepted
NOISE: Conversation-friendly
OTHER: BYOB
WEST
KOREA GARDEN
(2 forks)
204 N. Cass Ave., Westmont
630-852-1900
The best way to savor the experience at this unassuming spot is to cook your own dinner on a tabletop grill.
RECOMMENDED: Beef and vegetable barbecues, kalbee tang (beef short-rib soup), corn/barley tea.
OPEN: Dinner and lunch Mon.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $5.95-$26.95
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
NOISE: Conversation-friendly
RESERVATIONS: Accepted for large parties
KOSHER
SHALLOTS
(3 forks)
2324 N. Clark St.
773-755-5205
This restaurant (meat but not dairy, no shellfish, pork or flavored alcohols) is an upscale spot with muted-burgundy decor and fine tableware. Laura Frankel’s cooking is good enough to attract gourmet diners as well as those observing dietary laws. On Saturdays the restaurant opens one hour past sundown and serves a limited grill menu.
RECOMMENDED: Salt-cod fritters, foie gras and truffle ravioli, chicken paella, veal medallions, black hat cake, citrus plate.
OPEN: Dinner Sun.-Thurs., Sat., lunch Mon.-Thurs.
ENTREE PRICES: $17.50-$32
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Strongly recommended
NOISE: Conversation-friendly
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible; valet parking.
LATIN
CITY
ISABEL’S
(2 forks)
1329 W. Chicago Ave.
312-243-2929
A once-vacant corner has sprung to life as a captivating Puerto Rican restaurant where the Latin music gets diners swaying in their seats.
RECOMMENDED: Aguacate relleno de camarones, pastelillos de carne, house salad, camarones al mojo de ajo, candied papaya with cheese.
OPEN: Dinner Tue.-Sun., lunch Tue.-Fri.
ENTREES: $9.95-$16.95
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Recommended
NOISE: Conversation-friendly
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible
MAS
**
1670 W. Division St.
773-276-8700
The trendy popularity of nuevo Latino cooking can be seen in the crowds that jam into this Wicker-Park-fringe newcomer. Happily, the kitchen justifies the crowds; the food is lively and flavorful and, as a bonus, moderately priced. Drawbacks include an extremely noisy dining room that does not filter kitchen smoke effectively, and a no-reservations policy. But the bar offers some interesting libations, and you can order appetizers there.
RECOMMENDED: Ceviche del dia, braised short ribs, black bean soup, roasted pork tenderloin, cafe con leche creme brulee.
OPEN: Dinner Mon.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $15-$20
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Not accepted
NOISE: Bring earplugs
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible; valet parking.
NACIONAL 27
**
325 W. Huron St.
312-664-2727
Cool as a tropical breeze, Lettuce Entertain You’s nuevo Latino concept features dishes culled from 27 Central American, South American and Caribbean nations –though fun and flavor are paramount, rather than strict authenticity. The menu includes a glossary of terms, making ordering far less daunting (waiters also are well-informed). Tables and booths face a central dance floor, which heats up after 10 p.m. on weekends; in the earlier hours, Nacional 27 seems more like a spacious, romantically lit supper club.
RECOMMENDED: Arepas, crab fritters, seabass en Zarzuela, pork adobado, chorizo-crusted mahi mahi, N27 banana split, tres leches cheesecake.
OPEN: Dinner Mon.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $15-$23
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Strongly recommended
NOISE: Conversation-friendly
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible; valet parking.
NEW
RESTAURANTE EL SALVADOR
(3 forks)
4125 S. Archer Ave.
773-579-0405
The decor may not be much to write home about, but the food certainly is. The restaurant serves up traditional Central American meals, as well as including some standard Mexican dishes on the menu.
OPEN: Dinner and lunch Tue.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $7.95-$12.
CREDIT CARDS: Not accepted
RESERVATIONS: Accepted
NOISE: Conversation-friendly
OTHER: Wheelchair-accessible
WATUSI
**
1540 W. North Ave.
773-862-1540
A hip hangout with fruity cocktails named for `60s dances and a pan-Latin menu (dubbed “West Indies Soul Food” by creator Suzy Crofton, taking inspiration from Norman Van Aken’s New World Cuisine) that uses exuberant flavors with pinpoint precision. The place is noisier than most, but fun, and serves a late-night menu (appetizers mostly) from 11 p.m. to 1 a.m.
RECOMMENDED: Lobster-conch fritters, grilled octopus, suckling pig, orange-marinated chicken, sorbet wave.
OPEN: Dinner Mon.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $15-$19
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Strongly recommended
NOISE: Conversation-challenged
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible; valet parking; smoking at bar only.
WEST
SAMBA ROOM
*
22 E. Chicago Ave., Naperville
630-753-0985
This lively restaurant is part of a nuevo Latino concept that originated in Dallas, but the kitchen product is nothing like you’d expect from a chain. Hefty portions of boldly seasoned food, appealing visuals and good service are pluses; horrific noise levels and ambient cigar smoke are minuses.
RECOMMENDED: Grilled mussels, spice-rubbed chicken, pork tenderloin over sweet-potato hash, chile-spiked chocolate cake.
OPEN: Dinner, lunch Mon.-Sun., brunch Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $12-$19
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Strongly recommended
NOISE: Bring earplugs
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible
CITY
CALITERRA
**
Wyndham Chicago Hotel
633 N. St. Clair St.
312-274-4444
What “Cal-Ital” has done for wines (made from Italian grapes grown in California), executive chef John Coletta does for food in this hotel dining room, gleefully mixing Italian and Californian ingredients and styles, creatively interpreting menu definitions and generally having a fine time creating dishes whose uncertain pedigrees are compensated by fine flavor.
RECOMMENDED: Grouper cheeks in “cioppino” broth, softshell crabs, duck foie gras, lamb loin, roasted sturgeon, chocolate cannoli.
OPEN: Dinner, lunch and breakfast Mon.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $18-$35
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Accepted
NOISE: Conversation-friendly
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible; valet parking.
CLARK STREET BISTRO
**
2600 N. Clark St.
773-525-9992
This is close to being the perfect neighborhood restaurant: It’s imaginative, comfortable, pretty and reasonably priced. The food is notable for its artful composition and unfussy, clean flavors.
RECOMMENDED: Duck confit, bouillabaisse, couscous, Night and Day cake.
OPEN: Dinner Mon.-Sun., lunch Sat.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $9.50-$14.95
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Recommended on weekends
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible; two hours free parking (with validation) at Columbus Hospital.
CUISINES
**
Chicago Renaissance Hotel
1 W. Wacker Drive
312-372-7200
This restaurant skillfully weds unfussy Mediterranean food to a fine-dining atmosphere.
Though prices aren’t cheap, quality and portions make dining a good value. Service is a strong point, and the wine list is broad, informative and very attractively priced.
RECOMMENDED: Polenta cake with asparagus, grilled shrimp, veal medallions.
OPEN: Dinner Mon.-Sat., lunch Mon.-Fri.
ENTREE PRICES: $6-$28
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Recommended
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible; valet parking.
NEW
ZOUZOU MEDITERRANEAN DELICATESSEN
(3 forks)
1406 W. Belmont Ave, 773-755-4020
Evocative fare in a no-frills setup is the draw here. Customers order from a menu on the wall, though it’s easier to grab a paper menu from the counter and have a seat, browsing through the various familar and exotic offerings.
OPEN: Dinner Mon.-Sat. lunch Mon.- Sat.
ETREE PRICES: $6.95-$9.50
CREDIT CARDS: M, V
RESERVATIONS: Accepted
NOISE: Conversation-friendly
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible
MEXICAN
CITY
ADOBO GRILL
*
1610 N. Wells St.
312-266-7999
Once this Old Town newcomer gets its front-room act together (not equal) long delays for reserved tables and overmatched service mar the experience at times (not equal) this may be one of the best Mexican restaurants in town. Owner Paul LoDuca and chef Dudley ieto are veteran restaurateurs, so the prognosis is very positive.
RECOMMENDED: Tableside-prepared guacamole, Hawaiian ono seviche, tortilla soup, snapper Veracruzana, grilled quail, arroz con leche, dessert crepes.
OPEN: Dinner Mon.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $9.95-$17.95
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Strongly recommended
NOISE: Conversation-challenged
NEW
EL TAPATIO
(3 forks)
3400 N. Ashland Ave.
773-327-5475
Chicken fajitas, carne asada, combination platesthere are no surprises on this Mexican menu, but rarely are these familiar foods done so well and consistently.
OPEN: Dinner, lunch Mon.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $7.95-$9.95
CREDIT CARDS: M, V
RESERVATIONS: ot accepted
NOISE: Conversation-friendly
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible
FROTERA GRILL
***
445 N. Clark St.
312-661-1434
Mexican food takes on a whole new dimension at Frontera Grill, where the authentic regional cooking of chef Rick Bayless is unsurpassed, yet marvelously accessible in concept and price. Dining here is especially good with large parties, when sharing adds to the experience. The Saturday brunch is a fine option that isn’t as crowded as evening service. (See also Topolobampo, Frontera’s fine-dining sibling, at the same address.)
RECOMMENDED: Enchiladas nortenos, queso fundido, silver salmon with pumpkinseed mol, pork with pasilla sauce.
OPEN: Dinner and lunch Tue.-Sat.
ENTREE PRICES: $9-$22
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Accepted for parties of five or more only
NOISE: Conversation-challenged
OTHER: Valet parking; wheelchair accessible (elevator to lower-level restrooms).
IXCAPUZALCO
**
2919 N. Milwaukee Ave.
773-486-7340
Geno Bahena, a chef who worked at Rick Bayless’ Frontera Grill, somehow has created a Mexican restaurant out of a storefront space that was, until recently, a gyros hut. The place is named after the Mexican town where Bahena was born and raised, working on a family ranch and orchard, and the rustic food of his youth figures prominently in the restaurant’s menu, though the chef brings a fine-dining sensibility to his dishes. Service is improving.
RECOMMENDED: Daily mol dishes matched with chicken, duck breast and fish or quail, softshell crabs, lime-cured marlin.
OPEN: Dinner, lunch Wed.-Mon.
ENTREE PRICES: $13.50-$17
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Strongly recommended
NOISE: Conversation-friendly
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible
MAIZ RESTAURANT
(4 forks)
1942 W. Division St.
773-862-1801
Fulfilling the promise of its name, the restaurant’s menu lists mostly dishes made with fresh corn tortillas. But these tortillas come in many guises, including the assorted shapes of tacos chalupas, sopes, huaraches and tamales.
OPEN: Dinner Tue.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $5-$10
CREDIT CARDS: ot accepted
RESERVATIONS: Accepted
NOISE: Conversation-friendly
SALPICON
***
1252 N. Wells St.
312-988-7811
Priscila Satkoff turns out wonderful regional Mexican cookingwith an emphasis on her native Mexico Cityat this Old Town restaurant, decorated with brightly colored walls and furniture, and even brighter colors on the Alejandro Romero paintings. There’s a well-chosen wine list and an impressive list of tequilas, too.
RECOMMENDED: Wild mushroom soup, octopus ceviche, shrimp mojo de ajo, tequila-marinated halibut, pollo yucateca, pastel tres leches.
OPEN: Dinner Mon.-Sun., brunch Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $14.95-$21.95
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Strongly recommended
NOISE: Conversation-friendly
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible
TOPOLOBAMPO
*** 1/2
445 N. Clark St.
312-661-1434
Somewhere in this world there may be a better Mexican restaurant, but until it is discovered, Rick and Deanna Bayless’ breathtaking River orth establishment will have to do. A recent expansion has made the dining room larger and more comfortable, and the kitchen is ever-instructive in its presentation of stunning regional cuisine. It can take weeks to secure a reservation, but dining here is worth whatever effort is required.
RECOMMENDED: Seviche moderna, tequila-cured salmon, garlic soup, stuffed trout, carne asada, lime tart.
OPEN: Dinner Tue.-Sat., lunch Tue.-Fri.
ENTREE PRICES: $18-$24
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Strongly recommended
NOISE: Conversation-friendly
OTHER: Valet parking; wheelchair accessible.
NORTH
LIDO MEXICO
(2 forks)
1934 Maple Ave., Evanston
847-475-3435
With food that is authentic, diverse and health-conscious, this lively Mexican restaurant is a orth Shore treasure.
RECOMMENDED: Enchiladas indigenas, pechuga de pollo.
OPEN: Dinner and lunch Mon.-Sun., brunch Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $8.95-$14.95
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Accepted for parties of 6 or more
OTHER: Carryout available
WEST
LAS BELLAS ARTES
**
112 W. Park Ave., Elmhurst
630-530-7725
This fine-dining outpost is good news for lovers of serious Mexican food in the suburbs. ot cheap, but the $32 prix-fixe dinner (five courses) is a good value.
RECOMMENDED: Chorizo pork loin, lamb, black bean soup, chile relleno, mol Amarillo.
OPEN: Dinner Tue.-Sat., brunch Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $15-$25
CREDIT CARDS: DS, MC, V
RESERVATIONS: Strongly recommended
NOISE: Conversation-friendly
LAS PALMAS MEXICA RESTAURANT
(2 forks)
311 W. Ogden Ave., Westmont
630-963-9999
One of several suburban locations of this small chain, Las Palmas offers an enormous, wide-ranging menu, cozy surroundings and reliably good food.
RECOMMENDED: Enchiladas, Yucatan snapper, fajitas.
OPEN: Dinner and lunch Mon.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $7.50-$14.25
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Accepted weekends for parties of 4 or more
NOISE: Conversation-friendly
OTHER: Carryout available
NEW
REBOZO
(2 forks)
1116 Madison St., Oak Park
708-445-0370
The menu is inspired by the cooking of owner Jorge Lopez’s mother. Orders may take a while to emerge from the kitchen, but the food is worth the wait.
RECOMMENDED: Tortilla soup, mol dishes, enchilada Pancho Villa.
OPEN: Dinner Mon.-Sat., lunch Mon.-Fri.
ENTREE PRICES: $9.30-$25
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Accepted
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible
SALBUTE
(4 forks)
20 E. 1st St., Hinsdale
630-920-8077
A tiny (25 seats) BYOB Mexican restaurant with boldly seasoned food, Salbute is fun, brash and definitely something different.
RECOMMENDED: Sea bass with blackberry sauce, chumayel, Salbute (achiote-marinated chicken), monte-bello (portobello mushroom in chipotle-goat cheese sauce).
OPEN: Dinner and lunch Mon.-Sat.
ENTREE PRICES: $10.95-$26.95
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Strongly recommended
NOISE: Conversation-friendly
OTHER: BYOB; carryout available; wheelchair accessible.
NORTHWEST
HAY CARAMBA
(3 forks)
146 S. Euclid Ave., Park Ridge
847-518-0747
Though the menu includes the expected fajitas, tacos and combo plates of less-ambitious restaurants, the emphasis on unusual seafood dishes sets this place apart.
RECOMMENDED: Seafood cocktail, appetizer combo, catfish ceviche, carne tampiquena.
OPEN: Dinner and lunch Tue.-Sat.
ENTREE PRICES: $4-$13
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Accepted for parties of 6 or more
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible
MEXICO UNO
(3 forks)
61 N. Bothwell St., Palatine
847-358-6856
This restaurant’s name may be Mexico Uno (One), but it should be Mexico Diez (Ten), for all the Gonzalez family members who work in the front and back of the house.
RECOMMENDED: Guacamole, caldo de pollo, Birria al Estilo Jalisco (goat-meat stew), carne a la parrilla (skirt steak).
OPEN: Dinner and lunch Mon.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $4.50-$9.95
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Not accepted
OTHER: Carryout available
SOUTH
CILANTRO
(2 forks)
18755 Dixie Hwy., Homewood
708-798-3500
There’s a fiesta feeling at this adobe-hacienda-style restaurant, where owner Joe Mendez infuses the cocina Mexicana menu with family favorites.
RECOMMENDED: Joe’s Special achos, spinach quesadillas, carne con rajas, wood-grilled pollo.
OPEN: Dinner and lunch Tue.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $4.95-$12.95
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Accepted for 6 or more on weekends
NOISE: Conversation-friendly
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible; carryout.
JALAPEO’S “THE HOTTEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT”
(3 forks)
200 U.S. Hwy. 41, Schererville, Ind.
219-864-8862
The awkward name differentiates this Tex-Mex spot from similar-sounding but unrelated chain restaurants. The authentic, well-prepared food here is a more important differentiation.
RECOMMENDED: Pozole soup, sea bass, chicken mol, caramelized banana.
OPEN: Dinner and lunch Mon.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $6-$14
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Accepted Sun.-Thurs.
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible
TORTILLA GRILL & CATINA
(3 forks)
3720 Ridge Rd., Lansing
708-474-8422
The menu won’t challenge the palate (the sauces lack heat), but old favorites are well-executed from fresh ingredients.
RECOMMENDED: Fajitas, tamales, chili relleno, pollo en mole.
OPEN: Dinner and lunch Mon.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $6-$15
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
NOISE: Conversation-friendly
RESERVATIONS: Accepted
CITY
KAN ZAMAN
(3 forks)
5204 N. Clark St.
773-506-0191
A fire closed the restaurant for a month, but on the plus side, there’s a pretty remodeled dining room to go with the accomplished Middle Eastern food.
RECOMMENDED: Hummus, falafel, lubia, dolma, stuffed cabbage, house specialty of fresh leeks sauteed in white wine with carrots.
OPEN: Dinner and lunch Mon.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $7.95-$12.95
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
SOUK
***
1552 N. Milwaukee Ave.
773-227-1818
It is rare to find Middle Eastern food so appealingly prepared, in such eye-pleasing surroundings. Souk (the name means “market”) is a lively convergence of Turkish, Lebanese, Afghan and Persian dishes, assembled by a kitchen that uses spices to entice the palate, not overwhelm it. Knowledgeable and confident servers can help neophytes navigate the menu (not equal) though you probably could point at a selection with your eyes closed and still do all right.
RECOMMENDED: Cold appetizer assortment, shrimp chermoula, couscous Bahri, lahme steak, baklava.
OPEN: Dinner Mon.-Sun., brunch Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $13.50-$22
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Strongly recommended
NOISE: Conversation-friendly
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible; valet parking.
CITY
BEN PAO
**
52 W. Illinois St.
312-222-1888
This Lettuce Entertain You restaurant, arguably more pan-Asian than strictly Chinese, is much improved since its early-1996 opening days. The menu is better focused, the cooking more consistent and service professional and communicative. Options include a grazer’s paradise of small dishes, including a handful of satays, and skillfully prepared main courses that range from the traditional to the adventurous. The bilevel dining room, done in black and fiery red and highlighted by twin water sculptures, is sleek and soothing.
RECOMMENDED: Shanghai peanut noodles, black pepper scallops, green curry lamb.
OPEN: Dinner Mon.-Sun., lunch Mon.-Fri., brunch Sat.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $7.95-$17.95
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Recommended
NOISE: Conversation-friendly
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible; valet parking; smoking at bar only.
JAPONI SANTE
**
2044 N. Halsted St.
773-348-8228
Sushi meets foie gras — though happily not on the same plate — at this French-Japanese fusion restaurant. Fusion gets an often-deserved bad rap, but chef Shigeyoshi Kojima, who worked under Paul Bocuse in France, knows what he’s doing — though the “novelle sushi creations are a mixed bag. Dining rooms are bright but serenely peaceful.
RECOMMENDED: Foie gras and duck breast, eel and eggplant millefeuille, seared bluefin, stuffed snapper, barbecued salmon.
OPEN: Dinner Mon.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $19-$28.
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V.
RESERVATIONS: Accepted.
NOISE: Hushed
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible; valet parking.
RED LIGHT
***
820 W. Randolph St.
312-733-8880
This pan-Asian concept features a focused, easy-to-navigate menu by chef Paul Wildermuth. There are nibbles galore in addition to a half-dozen or so full-sized entrees, and tasting menus are available for the indecisive. There’s also a late-night menu that kicks in about 11 p.m.
RECOMMENDED: Grilled quail, gingered pork dumplings, Taiwanese catfish, Wai Chee duck, creme brulee trio.
OPEN: Dinner Mon.-Sun., lunch Mon.-Fri.
ENTREE PRICES: $15-$30
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Strongly recommended
OTHER: Valet parking; wheelchair accessible.
VONG
***
6 W. Hubbard St.
2-644-8664
The clean, fragrant flavors of Thai food and the subtle complexities of fine French cooking merge gloriously at this stellar concept by acclaimed chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, in partnership with Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises. The menu closely mirrors that of the ew York City original, offering so many enticing dishes that the platters — the Black Plate for appetizers, the White Plate for desserts — are frequently chosen options. The comfortable (if noisy) dining room is done in neutral tones and clean lines that are more intricate than they first appear — much like Vongerichtens food.
RECOMMENDED: Foie gras with ginger and mango, crabmeat spring rolls, Thai-spiced grilled quail, grilled beef in ginger broth, baked monkfish, Valrhona chocolate cake.
OPEN: Dinner Mon.-Sun., lunch Mon.-Fri.
ENTREE PRICES: $19-$33
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Strongly recommended
NOISE: Conversation-challenged
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible; no smoking in dining room; valet parking.
NORTH
SENOYA
(2 forks)
8750 W. Golf Rd., Niles
847-299-7717
You’ll find the bounty of Asia at this buffet, the creation of B.K. Jeon, a Seoul native. of surprisingly, Korean items are among the best of the more than two dozen entree items.
RECOMMENDED: Sushi platters, braised Korean barbecue beef, Mongolian barbecue beef, boiled shrimp, simmered mussels.
OPEN: Dinner and lunch Mon.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $2.50 (children 2 to 5) – $12.95
CREDIT CARDS: A, DS, DC, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Accepted
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible
NORTHWEST
PACIFIC RIM KITCHEN
(3 forks)
315 Skokie Blvd., Northbrook
847-714-1888
There may be restaurants that do a better job with Chinese, Thai, Vietnamese, Korean or Japanese cuisine, but it is a rare restaurant that can pull off all of the above. Pacific Rim is that place. Plus, its spare, contemporary ambience is a welcome change from the usual B movie, red-and-black decor.
RECOMMENDED: Sushi, chicken Don, oyster beef, Zaru-Soba.
OPEN: Dinner Mon.-Sun., lunch Mon.-Fri.
ENTREE PRICES: $6.25-$15.95
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Recommended
WONTON GOURMET
(2 forks)
2310 S. Elmhurst Rd., Mt. Prospect
847-427-1183
The wontons and dumplings are handmade and stuffed with delicate ingredients; the noodles are fresh (some made on site); and the greens are deep emerald. And while meals can be fast-paced, it is also a good place to drop in for a soul-warming bowl of noodles for dinner or late supper.
RECOMMENDED: Wontons, noodle soups, shrimp dumplings, gan chow beef fun, Singapore noodles.
OPEN: Dinner and lunch Mon.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $3.50-$9
CREDIT CARDS: Not accepted
RESERVATIONS: Not accepted
NOISE: Conversation-friendly
PERSIAN / TURKISH
A LA TURKA
(3 forks)
3134 N. Lincoln Ave.
773-935-6447
From its weekend entertainment — a belly dancer gyrates among tables and families crowd the dance floor — to its made-to-share sampler plates, conviviality is served in ample portions here. The Turkish menu is a zesty blend of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean influences.
RECOMMENDED: Karisik meze, karisik izgara, manti, karadeniz pide, baked eggplant.
OPEN: Dinner and lunch Mon.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $8.50-$16.50
CREDIT CARDS: DC, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Recommended on weekends
NOISE: Conversation-friendly
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible
REZA’S
**
5255 N. Clark St.
773-561-1898
The interior, all sand-blasted brick, polished oak, mahogany trim and hardwood floors, looks more like a yuppie microbrewery than an ethnic restaurant, but the pungent scent of charcoal grilling lets you know you’ve come to the right place. Copious portions of carefully prepared, prettily presented food are offered at very reasonable prices. Service is all smiles and super-efficient; there’s a very good wine list, too. In River North, a second Reza’s, at 436 W. Ontario St. (which actually is a former microbrewery), is virtually identical.
RECOMMENDED: Joujeh kabob, lamb shank in tomato sauce, cornish hen with pomegranate sauce, grilled shrimp, stuffed green pepper, baklava.
OPEN: Dinner and lunch Mon.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $6.95-$17.95
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Recommended on weekends for parties larger than two
OTHER: Parking lot
POLISH
CITY
LUTNIA
*
5532 W. Belmont Ave.
773-282-5335
An elegant, brightly lit anachronism, where service is ritualistic and the menu reminiscent of years ago — especially with its emphasis on flamed-tableside entrees and desserts. But you’re better off skipping the flamb act in favor of the straightforward Polish dishes, which are much better.
RECOMMENDED: Pierogi assortment, bigos (hunter’s stew), beef roll, stuffed quail.
OPEN: Dinner Tue.-Sun., lunch Tue.-Fri.
ENTREE PRICES: $6-$25
CREDIT CARDS: M, V
RESERVATIONS: Strongly suggested on weekends
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible
TATRA INN
(2 forks)
6040 S. Pulaski Rd.
773-582-8313
The main event in this restaurant is the generous buffet of Polish-style food. Almost all of the food is made from scratch — pierogis, cabbage rolls, pastries and all.
RECOMMENDED: Steak shish kebab, french-fried shrimp, sauerkraut, potato or fruit-filled pierogis, tomato, beef and rice-stuffed cabbage rolls.
OPEN: Dinner and lunch Tue.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $6.95-$12.95
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Recommended for parties of six or more
NORTH
POLO
(2 forks)
8801 N. Milwaukee Ave., Niles
847-470-8822
Decor is unassuming inside and out, but the tasty, homespun Polish and Eastern European specialties make this place worth a visit.
RECOMMENDED: Polo combo plate, roast duck, veal, sweet table including carrot cake.
OPEN: Dinner and lunch Tue.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $5.75-$14.95
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Recommended for parties of six or more
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible
SOUTH
PACZKI POLISH-ITALIAN BUFFET
(1 fork)
11228 S. Harlem Ave., Worth
708-448-1580
The name tells you just what to expect from this culinary intermarriage, whose diverse menu and bargain prices (including the nightly buffet) keep the crowds returning.
RECOMMENDED: Cabbage rolls, shrimp scampi, paczki.
OPEN: Dinner Tue.-Sun., lunch Mon.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $5.50-$13.95; buffet $6.95
CREDIT CARDS: A, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Accepted for parties of six or more
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible
CITY
LEM’S
***
5914 S. State St.
773-684-5007
This place is a dive and almost completely takeout (there are a few bar stools), but these ribs are the best we’ve found.
OPEN: Tue.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $2.75-$15.75
CREDIT CARDS: Not accepted
RESERVATIONS: Not available
SMOKE DADDY
(3 forks)
1804 W. Division St.
773-772-6656
At this vintage neighborhood bar-lounge, flavorful barbecued ribs and tender pit-oven smoked pork and beef are on the menu.
RECOMMENDED: Pork shoulder, beef brisket, spare ribs, barbecued chicken breasts, skin-on French fries, BBQ beans.
OPEN: Dinner Mon.-Sun., lunch Fri.-Mon.
ENTREE PRICES: $6-$16
CREDIT CARDS: A, DS, DC, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Accepted
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible
SOUTH
THE PIT RIB HOUSE
(1 fork)
9430 S. Roberts Rd., Hickory Hills
708-599-7576
A large open pit in the center of the restaurant lets customers watch their barbecue sizzling. Decor may be minimal, but the barbecue is good and the prices are low.
RECOMMENDED: Chopped pork platter, baby back ribs.
OPEN: Dinner and lunch Mon.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $3.95-$12.95
CREDIT CARDS: A, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Not accepted
OTHER: Carryout
RUSSIAN
CITY
RUSSIAN TEA TIME
**
77 E. Adams St. 312-360-0000
A delightful, handsome and surprisingly sophisticated ethnic gem, Russian Tea Time offers a wide-ranging and authentic menu of dishes from Russia and neighboring republics. Its proximity to Symphony Center has made the cafe a favorite with the pre- and post-concert crowd.
RECOMMENDED: Borscht, Azerbajian mushrooms, samsas (chopped-meat-filled pastries), vereniky (potato-stuffed pasta), pelmeni (chicken-filled tortellini), stuffed and grilled quail.
OPEN: Dinner and lunch Mon.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $15-$27
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Strongly recommended; at lunch, accepted for parties of 5 or more only
NOISE: Conversation-friendly
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible
SEAFOOD
CITY
NEW
ATLANTIQUE
***
5101 N. Clark St.
773-275-9191
Featuring twin dining rooms decorated with sea-green wainscotting and a colorful array of papier-mache sea creatures made by a local artist, this impressive Andersonville restaurant offers sophisticated, prettily presented seafood at very reasonable prices – most entrees are $20 or less.
RECOMMENDED: Crab cake Napoleon, veal sweetbreads, tuna tartare, bouillabaisse,, Pacific salmon, roasted venison with duck confit.
OPEN: Dinner Mon.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $16.95-$23.95
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Recommended on weekends
NOISE: Conversation-challenged
OTHER: Smoking in bar only; wheelchair accessible; valet parking.
BLUE POINT OYSTER BAR
*
741 W. Randolph St.
312-207-1222
Wood-shuttered windows and retro signage highlight the look of this circa-1940s East Coast fish house, which takes its oysters very seriously (at least eight varieties featured daily) and does good-to-excellent work on its other offerings. Not the best seafood restaurant in Chicago, but potentially a contender.
RECOMMENDED: Fresh oysters, crab-stuffed jumbo shrimp, grilled octopus, grilled scallops, chile-glazed halibut, Key lime pie.
OPEN: Dinner Mon.-Sun., lunch Mon.-Fri.
ENTREE PRICES: $14.95-$39.95
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Recommended
NOISE: Conversation-challenged
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible; valet parking.
CATCH 35
**
35 W. Wacker Drive
312-346-3500
Situated in the Leo Burnett Building, this restaurant plays to the advertising crowd. The strikingly handsome dining room features soaring entryway ceilings, a dual-piano bar and a large lighted wall displaying advertising art. It’s easy to overlook the food in favor of this restaurant’s glossy good looks, but the imaginatively prepared, Asian-accented seafood merits attention, too.
RECOMMENDED: Salmon in puff pastry, Key lime pie.
OPEN: Dinner Mon.-Sun., lunch Mon.-Fri., brunch Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $20-$55
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Recommended
NOISE: Conversation-friendly
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible; valet parking evenings.
JOE’S CRAB SHACK
(2 forks)
745 N. Wells St.
312-664-2722
1461 Butterfield Rd., Downers Grove
630-960-2033
4400 Fox Valley Center Drive, Aurora
630-236-7370
2000 E. Golf Rd., Schaumburg
847-517-1212
Popular seafood chain attracts attention with colored lights, silk tropical plants and funky decorative touches. Lots of crab on the menu, along with everything from coconut shrimp to pastas. Bargain-priced specials are a big draw.
RECOMMENDED: Crab cakes, snow crab, king crab.
OPEN: Dinner and lunch Mon.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $8.99-$16.99
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Accepted
NOISE: Conversation-challenged
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible
MCCORMICK & SCHMICK’S
**
41 E. Chestnut St.
312-397-9500
A West-Coast-based chain with impeccably fresh seafood and customer-friendly, if quirky, prices, McCormick & Schmick’s Chicago link is handsome and clubby, with just enough Prairie School decor touches to make it look local. The enormous menu reflects the day’s catch, and fresh oysters are a specialty. An early-bird and late-night bar menu offers a handful of dishes at a bargain ($1.95) price.
RECOMMENDED: Crab cakes, calamari sausage, cedar-roasted steelhead, cashew-crusted mahi mahi, upside-down apple pie.
OPEN: Dinner and lunch Mon.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $9.95-$39.95
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Strongly recommended
NOISE: Conversation-friendly
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible; valet parking.
NICK’S FISHMARKET
**
1 First National Plaza
312-621-0200
The revamped Nick’s (it’s in a new space within the plaza) is lighter and prettier and even sports a separate grill for those looking for less complicated (and less expensive) fare. But the restaurant’s strengths — excellent fish and shellfish with a particular fondness for Pacific catches, and extremely attentive service — remain in place. Prices suggest this is still big-event dining, though the atmosphere is far less formal than before.
RECOMMENDED: Seared ahi tuna, seafood crepe, Dover sole, mahi-mahi, creme brulee.
OPEN: Dinner Mon.-Sat., lunch Mon.-Fri.
ENTREE PRICES: $24.95-$47
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Strongly recommended
NOISE: Conversation-friendly
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible; valet parking.
RIVA
*
Navy Pier, 700 E. Grand Ave.
312-644-RIVA
Riva boasts unparalleled views of the lakeshore, flawless creature comforts and an Italian-accented seafood menu. In general, simple dishes outshine the ambitious-sounding ones. Prices may be eye-popping to the unprepared, but there is that great view.
RECOMMENDED: Crabcakes, grilled octopus, vegetarian heaven, lobster diavolo.
OPEN: Dinner and lunch Mon.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $18.95-$52.95
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Strongly recommended
NOISE: Conversation-friendly
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible; valet parking.
SHAW’S CRAB HOUSE
***
21 E. Hubbard St.
312-527-2722
Chicago’s best seafood restaurant bears its comfortably aged look gracefully. And week in and week out, the kitchen offers a manageable variety of pristinely fresh seafood, prepared with great care but without great fuss. For dessert, you can’t beat Key lime pie, the best in town. You can find live music frequently in the Blue Crab Lounge.
RECOMMENDED: Oysters, blue crab fingers, Dover sole, grilled salmon, N’Awlins spicy shrimp, Key lime pie, pecan pie.
OPEN: Dinner Mon.-Sun., lunch Mon.-Fri.
ENTREE PRICES: $14.95-$49.95
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Strongly recommended
NOISE: Conversation-friendly
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible; valet parking.
WEST
120 OCEAN PLACE
**
120 Hale St., Wheaton
630-690-2100.
Amid soaring peaked ceilings (the space was once a church, as the stained-glass window testifies) and faux-marble columns, this west-suburban restaurant cranks out terrific seafood. The large menu, which changes daily, offers plenty of variety.
RECOMMENDED: Oysters, spicy shrimp, grilled striped bass, pepper-grilled mahi mahi, lime tart, tartufo.
OPEN: Dinner Mon.-Sun., lunch Mon.-Fri.
ENTREE PRICES: $12.50-$31.95
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Strongly recommended on weekends
NOISE: Conversation-friendly
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible
CHINN’S 34TH STREET FISHERY
(2 forks)
3011 W. Ogden Ave., Lisle
630-637-1777
The nephew of the legendary Bob Chinn demonstrates that seafood expertise runs in the family — Stan Chinn even copies his uncle’s habit of displaying the day’s bills of lading to advertise his seafood’s freshness.
RECOMMENDED: Garlic shrimp, grilled ahi tuna, Key lime pie.
OPEN: Dinner Mon.-Sun., lunch Mon.-Fri.
ENTREE PRICES: $9.95-$38.95
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Accepted Sun.-Thurs.
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible
KEY WESTER FISH & PASTA HOUSE
(3 forks)
1975 Glacier Park Rd., Naperville
630-778-8700
Palm trees, manmade lagoons with swans, illuminated geysers — and that’s just the outside of this 500-seat, glitzy seafood shanty, whose menu has predictable Caribbean influences, but also Cajun and straightforward American touches.
RECOMMENDED: Rosa del mar, gumbo, blackened tuna, chocolate basket.
OPEN: Dinner and lunch Mon.-Sun.
ENTREE PRICES: $9.95-$32.95
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Accepted
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible
PARKERS’ OCEAN GRILL
**
1000 31st St., Downers Grove
630-960-5701
A strikingly handsome seafood restaurant with mahogany-clad walls, hardwood floors and white linen-topped tables. The globally influenced menu offers few surprises, but most dishes are capably executed, and service is attentive and very well trained.
RECOMMENDED: Crab cakes, cedar-roasted sturgeon, cioppino, chocolate gateau.
OPEN: Dinner Mon.-Sun., lunch Mon.-Fri.
ENTREE PRICES: $17-$35
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Recommended
NOISE: Conversation-friendly
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible; no smoking in dining room; complimentary valet parking.
NEW
PHILANDER’S
**
1120 Pleasant St., Oak Park
708-848-4250
Chef Ryan Stewart has breathed new life into this hotel dining room since taking over the kitchen last year; signature seafood dishes are exciting and well-prepared. The decor is more than a little dated and service needs work; nightly jazz is a plus, even if it does add to the noise level.
RECOMMENDED: Macadamia-crusted shrimp, crab cakes, horseradish-crusted salmon, sauteed snapper, stuffed quail.
OPEN: Dinner Mon.-Sat.
ENTREE PRICES: $14-$28
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Recommended
NOISE: Conversation-challenged
OTHER: Valet parking
NORTHWEST
BOB CHINN’S CRAB HOUSE
**
393 S. Milwaukee Ave., Wheeling
847-520-3633
A visit to this place makes it readily apparent why this is the highest-volume restaurant in the area (and one of the highest in the nation). Bob Chinn serves the freshest possible seafood (his bills of lading are posted for all to see) at very reasonable prices. Cooking isn’t fancy –nearly everything is steamed or grilled –but it suits the ingredients. The sprawling dining room is similarly low on frills, but friendly, expeditious service and quality components are ample compensation.
RECOMMENDED: Dungeness crab, fried fish sampler, blue crab claws, Kentucky pie.
OPEN: Dinner Mon.-Sun., lunch Mon.-Fri.
ENTREE PRICES: $15.95-$30.95
CREDIT CARDS: A, DC, DS, M, V
RESERVATIONS: Preferred seating for parties of six or more.
NOISE: Conversation-challenged
OTHER: Wheelchair accessible
