Name: Chris Noble
City: Oak Park Age: 27
Favorite spots: Salpicon (1252 N. Wells St. 312-988-7811), Topolobampo (445 N. Clark St. 312-661-1434), R.J. Grunts (2056 Lincoln Park West. 773-929-5363), Red Light (820 W. Randolph St. 312-733-8880), Portillo’s (100 W. Ontario St. 312-587-8930)
Review of R.J. Grunts: Dinner and a beer for less than $15 in Lincoln Park? I know, you’re thinking McDonald’s and then a bar on Halsted, but R.J. Grunts makes it possible all under one roof. Simple, straightforward comfort food that’s perfect any day that ends in “y.” I always leave R.J. Grunts happy and full. If only there were parking nearby …
Favorite romantic spot: Scylla (1952 N. Damen Ave. 773-227-2995). The last time I was there with my wife on a romantic date, we were inspired to take a vacation in Wine Country, and that turned out beautifully. The food was delicious. The service was unpretentious. It was nice to sit out on the porch and watch Bucktown go by.
My last meal would be at: Giordano’s (multiple locations, including 1040 W. Belmont Ave. 773-327-1200; check metromix.com for more). If I’m going down, I might as well go down with a huge hunk of deep-dish in my mouth!
Favorite under-the-radar spot: West Town Tavern (1329 W. Chicago Ave. 312-666-6175). I just can’t believe how well you can eat for such a reasonable price. I’m not sure it’s “under the radar,” but it’s definitely “off the beaten path.” I just love eating there, plain and simple.
My guilty pleasure is: Chili’s (multiple locations, including 2 E. Ontario St. 312-943-1510; check metromix.com for more). I’m pretty sure they mix an addictive chemical in with their chips and salsa that makes you crave it fortnightly. It’s the only chain restaurant I frequent. I’m so weak and embarrassed …
