The Windy City just might be the most exciting metropolis in the country right now, thanks in large part to its red-hot food scene.
Duck Inn
Set in a pre–Prohibition era tavern in the Bridgeport neighborhood, Kevin Hickey’s gastropub offers seasonally driven fare and creative bar bites.
Menu standout: The rotisserie duck for two, served with potatoes crisped in the drippings. Entrées $19–$34.
Momotaro
The décor is classic at this three-level sushi and robata spot, but the 80-item menu broadcasts its bold ambitions.
Menu standout: “Momotaro Tartare,” a vegetarian starter of Japanese tomato and Maui onion. Entrées $16–$100.
Intro
Established and emerging chefs take turns manning this 98-seat Lincoln Park restaurant, remaking its identity each time.
Menu standout: The next menu hasn’t been announced, but past chefs have included Erik Anderson, formerly of Nashville’s Catbird Seat. Tickets $75–$95.
Dove’s Luncheonette
At this hipster-packed Wicker Park diner, Chicago soul and blues are a soundtrack for Mexican dishes that come with a Southern twist.
Menu standout: A shrimp-and-squid ceviche called “vuelve a la vida” (translation: return to life). Entrées $12–$15.
Duck Duck Goat
The latest venture from Stephanie Izard of Girl & the Goat is a Chinese spot on West Fulton Street with a takeout window dedicated to Asian street foods.
Menu standout: Spiced goat dumplings. Prices not available at press time.
Lost Lake
Bamboo-clad walls, soul-soothing reggae, and nouveau tropical drinks—there’s lots to love at this new Logan Square tiki bar by local hero Paul McGee.
Tippling Hall
This River North juggernaut draws the after-work set with its 24-page drink menu (there are seven Bloody Mary options alone).
Pub Royale
An electronic menu board displays what's on tap from the 24 draft lines at this British-colonial-style pub in Wicker Park.
