Chicago's has a dining scene that is epic but at the same time is always constantly changing. Let this guide you to the hottest places to dine in the Windy City. Some of these restaurants are new, while others are old favorites: all are highly recommended. Here are 5 of Chicago's best restaurants that you can try this 2017:
This OG Logan Square favorite and highly recommended by Thrillist , the LULA CAFé was embracing the farm-to-table philosophy long before it was in vogue, and has remained one of the North Side's most in-demand weekend brunch destinations since it opened in 1999. The menu can change depending on availability of ingredients, but "The Royale" breakfast sandwich, which is made with turkey leg confit, Gruyere cheese, braised bacon, parsley salad, and a sunny-side egg on sourdough, is a sure favorite.
This Texas-style barbecue joint, the SMOQUE BBQ has been slingin' its signature brisket and ribs for the better part of a decade, and remains steadfast as the North Side's top dog for smoked meats. It's Bring Your Our Own Booze, so come hungry and with a frosty six-pack of your favorite local brew to fend off the inevitable meat sweats.
Creative enough to surprise even the most expert of palates, BOKA is this time-tested favorite promises a great atmosphere and even greater food. Crafted by visionary Lee Wolen, the Michelin-starred menu is an exercise in mixing complementary flavors and textures; no dish better shows this than Wolen's heirloom carrots, which have pistachio crumbles, bulgur, and smoked goat cheese. Try also pastry chef Meg Galus' equally whimsical desserts.
The magnificent building of the CHICAGO ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION HOTEL now operates as a boutique hotel that houses several food and drink options, including Chicago's second Shake Shack outpost and a rooftop restaurant and open-air terrace with a beachy vibe. The game room bar has a billiards, shuffleboard, built-in bocce bay, and a beverage program designed by Paul McGee. There's also a Prohibition-era whiskey bar, and a fully reimagined Cherry Circle Room inspired by CAA menus dating back more than a century.
Entente, being a "friendly understanding", will highlight collaboration between the chefs. Ingredients will drive the dishes that live as staples on the a la carte menu. Seasonality of game, seafood, meat and vegetable will inspire the direction of the kitchen. Re-interpretations of dishes with cross-cultural influences will highlight the true diversity and talent of the chefs. Beverage pairings are available to further enhance the experience.
