Don’t agree with all of Zagat’s essential eats to be a Chicagoan (not a fan of goat) but it’s hard to argue with Zagat!
GT Fish & Oyster
Named one of the 20 best seafood restaurants in America by Travel & Leisure magazine, GT Fish & Oyster boasts an interesting and delicious menu in a beautiful, albeit noisy, space. Portions are deliberately on the small side so you can try two or three things or share if you are the sharing type. As it should be, the clam chowder is outstanding (the nueske’s bacon adds an especially delightful flavor) and the lobster roll is the best I’ve had in the Midwest. Fish & chips are terrific, especially with the dill pickle remoulade. Next visit: fish tacos! Learn more here.
Italian in Chicago’s River North
With offices in Chicago’s hot River North neighborhood, we have no shortage of great restaurants. One of my favorite’s for Italian is only a few blocks away. Prosecco features beautiful decor, terrific service and wonderful food. Their website is here. When you go, ask for a table in the front room. The back room can get a little crowded and overly noisy.
I posted this review on Yelp some time ago but it’s just as true today…
Delightful experience. Friendly, professional and VERY knowledgeable staff, great menu and wonderful food. Lobster bisque was incredibly flavorful and light (no sense of that thick cloying over richness that some bisques can have), pastas were perfect in flavor, complexity and size. Friendly bar to wait for the on-time seating…a definite new favorite.
Four Farthings a Favorite Chicago Tavern
Just like Erick Anderssen, Four Farthings is one of my favorite Chicago taverns. Stepping through the doors feels like walking a bit back in time (well, other than the flat screen TVs and a few other accouterments of the 21st century). Carved wood, real bar stools, tables by big windows overlooking the street. Terrific staff, great food and, in good weather, some of the nicest outdoor dining around. And it’s a Big10 bar!
Check it out. Tell ‘em Erick sent you.