lovesfood

lovesfood

Overview:

So...when I read all of the articles of NoMI Kitchen, what with their 'approachable' dining, 'casual' atmosphere and new pricing...I figured I'd stop in. Not only that, but I brought a work group with me.

I had visited the original NoMI and loved it - but it was definitely a fine dining spot. This time, I was expecting a bit less fancy, and a bit more homey. I wasn't exactly wrong...but some notes:

- still really expensive (which is fine, I just hadn't expected it with the 're-vamp' of the restaurant).
- better atmosphere - more young and hip versus stuffy, and still the awesome view
- Food was really delectible, but portions were quite small
- Service was high quality as before

So, in my opinion, this is still a fine dining spot, not really a casual eatery as many of the write-ups were leading me to believe. It offers a superb view of the city in a relaxed, dressy atmosphere with excellent service and food to match.

Special Dishes:

Delicious sushi

lovesfood

Overview:

I visited Avec on a Sunday evening and found a lively, fun atmosphere. The menu, while not monstrous, was filled with too many things I wanted to try! Everything was delicious there - and I also recommend something nice from their really well priced wine list!

The atmosphere is great - really lively - and also interesting...if you are sitting at the end of a communal bench table, you may be asked to move to seat others (I found it charming!).

Defintely a great spot - but if you are in a hurry to dine, don't visit here as there are no reservations and you may have to wait.

Oh - and visit with a group so that it's easier to try more food!

Special Dishes:

Everything!

lovesfood

Overview:

This is my favorite restaurant - hands down. It is not only adorable on the inside (reclaimed seats as lighting, seatbelts as the back of a bench! Very awesome!), but the food is excellent and the service is wonderful.

The only negative is the wait. Ruxbin doesn't take reservations and only will seat tables of 4 or less on the weekends (I learned this the hard way). However, they are BYO, so bring some wine and hang out a while.

I especially like the trout, but the mussels are also quite good, and if they ever put the chicken and waffles back on the menu - definitely try it!

Check out the bathroom as well...one of the most unique bathrooms in the city!

Special Dishes:

Trout, Mussels

lovesfood

Overview:

I really love the Publican. I have now tried almost every menu item and none of them have disappointed. Each dish is flavorful and beautifully presented. My advice - go with a group - and try one of everything!

Service is great (aside from one moderately cranky bartender in the waiting area...).

I love the communal table, but I was also able to sit in one of the 'jails' as we called it. It was so much fun to also sit in one fo the booths as you feel like you are part of a fun party, but can talk to your group and spy on the scene at the restaurant.

This is a great spot to take out of towners as well - to give them a good feel for the unique Chicago dining scene.

Special Dishes:

Everything

lovesfood

Overview:

I've visited Girl and the Goat twice now - both visits required reservations 2-4 months out.

My first visit was pure delight. I loved every item I tasted (the pasta - sinful!). The flatbread was also delicious and I additionally tried the calamari, two types of the breads and another meat entree. All blew me away.

My second visit was also good, though I chose completely different menu items and I will say that my original selections were much better.

However, what really makes this restaurant aside from the unique menu items is the atmosphere. This spot is fun and young and hip and you can't help but smile when dining there.

A great spot (if you can get a reservation that is...).

Special Dishes:

Pasta with pulled meat Any of the breads Anything with goat in it!