Despite the allure of sparkling chandeliers and fresh paint in Chicago’s newest restaurants, sometimes we crave a familiar table in a cozy cafe around the corner. Tried and true are the neighborhood gems where the servers know our names and the menus never change. We polled locals to find some favorites. With roughly 200 neighborhoods in Chicago, we couldn't hit every one on this round, so be sure to leave a comment about a special spot in your ‘hood.
Wells on Wells, Old Town--a must on this list...
ReplyDeleteWhy does Zagat keep overlooking Pleasant House Bakery in Bridgeport?
ReplyDelete+1 to the knockout one two punch of pleasant house and marias.
DeleteThe upstairs to Le Colonial is truly a hidden gem in the Gold Coast.
ReplyDeleteAdd El nuevo mexicano.....and the duke of perth both in lakeview east
ReplyDeleteAquitaine at Webster and Lincoln is truly a neighborhood gem. It's beautiful, warm and friendly and Chef Holly's food is excellent, focused on local producers, and lovingly prepared.
ReplyDeleteHow could you miss Ras Dashen Ethiopian Restaurant in Edgewater?
ReplyDeleteCocula (corner of California & Cermak) is hands down the best Mexican food in Chicago.
ReplyDeleteIt's in a weird neighborhood (I think it's the border of Pilsen/Lawndale/Little Village or something), but don't let that scare you away.
Plus, the Margarona - it's a GIANT margarita with a couple of coronas stuck in for good measure, and it's like 13 bucks or something. Amazing.
Eleven City has delicious Lox, but my god is that place EXPENSIVE!
ReplyDeleteEleven City should not be on here. Way overpriced and the food and atmosphere are mediocre. South Loop in general has a lot of mediocre restaurants. A lot of good food, but not great. I would say Pita Heaven is actually one of the better stops I've made down here.
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