Alhambra Palace
1240 W. Randolph St. 312-666-9555
” … This place needs to really work on [its] service and food because the ambiance is all they’ve got. They spent a little too much on decorating the place instead of hiring competent waiters and chefs.” — Dennis
“This place is for drinks/danc[ing] and fun, not food. There are better Middle Eastern restaurants in Chicago. The atmosphere is unbelievable, and the decor is outstanding. Go eat somewhere else and come to Alhambra for drinks.” — SK
“Perfect for a b-day or bachelorette party. Outstanding atmosphere, a lot of fun, exceptional kabobs and Middle Eastern cuisine.” — E.
Crust
2056-58 W. Division St. 773-235-5511
“When I think flatbread, I think of one of those crumbly cracker thingies. Not the case here. Flatbread here is pita depth but chewy consistency like regular pizza dough. It was delish. … The ambiance was great too — big change since it was Settimana, very fun and a little on the sophisticated [side] for a pizza joint.” — Frankiewickerpark
“If you must have organic, try it … we craved Lou Malnati’s — big time! — afterward.” — Mich
“Love the concept of Crust being all-organic. The space is very open, bright and inviting. The flavor of all three of my table’s pizzas was decent but not out of this world. Ultimately, it’s very pricey when, at the end of the day, it’s just pizza and beer.” — JM
Room 21
2110 S. Wabash Ave. 312-328-1198
“Take a pass on this one or just go for drinks. The food is expensive and quite underwhelming. The music also detracts from the hip look and feel of the restaurant.” — Foodie
“$40 dollar steaks and $13 martinis on the South Side — come on [owner] Jerry [Kleiner], you can do much better than this. This place is a fad for many of the see-and-be-seen ‘in’ crowd from up north. If the decor and history behind Room 21 did not exist it would be the worst value for a restaurant in the city.” — Ryan
“We had a wonderful meal at Room 21 last night. Our waiter, Edgar, was incredibly helpful and suggested several dishes. We each ordered steak Diane or the petite filet, and they were delicious. Also, the crispy mashed potatoes are to die for. We will definitely be back soon.” — B.G.
Machu Picchu
3856 N. Ashland Ave. 773-472-0471
“I had high expectations — and in a few months, they may live up to it — but for now, fiasco. They are overwhelmed and inexperienced. I want to like the place, so let’s hope they learn from their mistakes!” — Rachelle
“A friend and I checked out this new spot, lured by the highlighted menu item of duck ceviche. No luck there as they were out of the duck items that night. However, the staff and the owner were extremely friendly and accommodating. They are totally brand new and have some kinks to work out.” — RL
South Coast
1700 S. Michigan Ave. 312-662-1700
“Best sushi I’ve had in Chicago, but a bit on the pricey side.” — Jenny
“Warning: This place will raise your sushi standards. I have been a huge fan of Coast in Bucktown since it opened. Nothing compares, including highly acclaimed Japonais, which is good, but not as good as Coast. And Coast is a much better value.” — South Coast Fan
