The Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder Company is a cozy cottage that has high ceilings, pine panels and booths; everything screams rustic, old-school Chicago. The dining area is always filled with couples or groups in search of restaurant's show stopper, the signature Pizza Pot Pie. This decadent masterpiece is made with a light and fluffy Sicilian bread dough which covers a bowl filled with homemade sauce, tomatoes, cheeses, sausages, mushrooms, etc. The bowl is removed at the end when it's served at your table, the result: a gooey, rich, heavy pizza pot pie. For dessert, try the Tortoni, it's a rich Italian frozen dessert flavored with rum, macaroons and almonds. If you loved the food, don't forget to take a couple of frozen pot pies on your way out.
Aba
Aba is a Mediterranean eatery nestled in Fulton Market District, an iconic location. The restaurant is renowned for its delicious food and classy interiors, characterized by the wooden floor, suspended lanterns, and plants throughout its premises. Managed by Chef CJ Jacobson, Aba promises authentic Mediterranean dishes and delectable drinks like Baja Negroni, Rhubarb Rose G&T, Sneaky Link, and many more. Some of Aba's absolute favorites include a Gluten-Free Crispy Chicken Thigh, Green Falafel, Spiced Skirt Steak, Chicken Kefta, Roasted Pork Belly, Double Chocolate Cake, Frozen Greek Yogurt, and Halva. However, the best part of Aba lies in its rooftop seating arrangement, which provides a panoramic view of Chicago's skyline. So, book a table on the rooftop to marvel at the skyscrapers.
Known for offering an excellent dining experience and authentic Southern cuisine, Virtue is a haven for southern cuisine lovers. Nestled in the bustling neighborhood of Hyde Park, the restaurant's contemporary elegance is accentuated with the Southern warmth exhibited through cozy seating and oil paintings on the walls. The food menu offers small and large plates along with cocktails. wines and beers. Southern staples like Gumbo made with chicken, andouille and rice and a variety of hearty steaks from pork chops to beef ribs are featured on the menu. Pair your favorite dish with a perfect drink and have a sumptuous Southern meal at Virtue.
Ramen-San on Hubbard Street in River North area serves a range of amazing ramen preparations that are full of authentic flavor. The hipster eatery is backed by the culinary skills of Marcelo Han and offers a wonderful, casual yet elegant dining destination that doesn't charge you a small fortune in the name of exotic Asian fare. Dishes such as pork tonkotsu and kimchi chicken are quite scrumptious and are sure to keep you coming back for more. Couple these delicious broths with the numerous Asian-style cocktails designed by Paul McGee, you wont regret it!
La Scarola is your West Loop go to for a classic Italian meal. The pasta is homemade, as are the soups; the meat preparations stand out too. The restaurant is packed most nights and the atmosphere is dynamic and lively; the noise levels can get a bit loud, though not enough to really be an issue. A quintessential neighborhood joint, the food is good and so is the conversation. Favorites on the menu include the Penne a la Vodka, Gamberi Risotto, and the Pasta e Fagioli. The Veal Mondelli and the Vitello di Franco are excellent as well. Open a bottle of wine, savor your meal, and soak in the atmosphere at this low-key classic.
Gyu-Kaku celebrates Japan's Yakiniku barbecue style and the shared dining experience that comes with it. Create your own combination or select from delectable value meals named after oriental stereotypes like Geisha, Samurai and Sumo. Meals consist of your choice of appetizers, a barbecued main like Prime Ribeye or NY Steak, and dessert. The décor is rustic and minimal, and Lin and Yoshiki play the perfect host to guarantee a memorable time. Gyu-Kaku Restaurant in Chicago not only caters to intimate dinners but is also an ideal destination for gatherings with friends, family celebrations, and corporate events.
One of the most boisterous and hopping of all the Greektown restaurants. Somehow it manages to maintain a sophisticated atmosphere even amidst loud noise and busy waiters. If you have three or more people, order one of the family style dinners, which include saganaki, taramosalata, lamb, meatballs, dolmades and more. Part of the charm is that you can dress up and feel comfortable, or go in jeans and feel at home. Try the Greek beer or one of the exotic Greek wines.
