Within my industry I get taken out quite a bit to very nice restaurants that have amazing food. I have always had a love for food, however I used to look at it in a very negative way. I would stick mainly to foods that were rather bland and one that wouldn’t pack on the pounds. However since moving to the city I really have a new outlook on food. I have become somewhat of a foodie. Trying new dish’s, cuisines, and it has been fun trying to find some favorite spots in the city. I have a different outlook on food. It’s not exactly what you eat, its more about how much of it you eat and how often. It also is important to actually enjoy and experience your food so you are not grazing all day long. Half the time American’s scarf down their food so fast they aren’t even tasting it. I was watching the “Best of Chicago” restaurant addition and started to wonder what restaurants would make my list…
1.) Frontera Grill - http://www.rickbayless.com/restaurants/grill.html If you haven’t been to Rick Bayless’s restaurant in River North you are missing out. The ambiance is great and the food is so good it leaves you wanting more the second you finish your bite. It is one of my favorites! Their Sea bass is amazing and their cervices are some of the best. If you are looking for a spot to grab a margarita this is also a great place to do it.
2.) Sushi Samba (River North) and Kabuki (Lincoln Park)
I was introduced to Sushi in college and it has been a love affair ever since. Sushi Samba is a great place if you are downtown. They have a large assortment of rolls and have these beef sticky rice appetizers that are to die for. I always forget what they are called but the staff always offers them. Next, Kabuki is a Japanese restaurant in Lincoln Park that is a gem. Their Vegas and Spicy Tuna rolls are great and the staff is always very friendly.
3.) Triple Crown (Dim Sum Chinatown)
My best friend’s family lives in Chinatown and I have been introduced to the most epic meal that I believe all people should be aware of. This meal is called “Dim Sum” and in my mind the best idea ever. People come around and serve you food that is ready to eat on carts. It is a style of Chinese food that is served in small baskets, therefore you get to try an assortment of different foods. It is usually held in the morning until the Mid afternoon. Tea is also served and heavily consumed. After being introduced to real Chinese food I always try to tell people that they are missing out and nothing even comes to its awesomeness. So if you are ever wanting to venture out and try something new, visit Triple Crown located off the redline in Chinatown.
4.) Chicago Cut, Joes Seafood, Shaw’s Crab, Brazzaz -
Listed above are in my mind some of the best steakhouses, seafood, and Brazilian steakhouses in the city. You of course are going to have to come with a wallet full of cash because these places are on the more expensive side. Chicago Cut has some great appetizers (Mussels) and believe it or not great salads! If you are in the mood for some crab legs I would venture to either Joes or Shaw’s. If you are at Joe’s you have to try their fried tomatoes,creamed spinach, or macaroni and cheese as an appetizer. Brazzaz is a guys version of heaven. It is a Brazzilian steakhouse were you get a chip that you place on the table and when you turn it over to the “orange side” servers come around with different meats and shave them off for you. They also have an amazing salad bar. I have never been so full in my entire life after the meal I had here.
5.) Yolk, Orange, Cobaah, Angelina’s, and Melrose Diner
These are my favorite brunch locations. Need no more explanation. Great food an amazing Bloody Marys! Another fun brunch option is Angelina’s in Wrigley. Great drink specials and a lively brunch crowd. Melrose Diner is open 24/7 and is a great place for a quick cheap breakfast.
6.) Paciugo and Forever Yogurt
I highly recommend Paciugo and it is my favorite gelato places in the city. I think I have tried every flavor they have to offer. Bonus.. they even offer samples! Forever Yogurt is fro yo and who doesn’t love fro yo?
