Girl and the Goat
Saveur – “America’s best new restaurant”
Girl and the Goat has occupied a spot on Randolph Street in the West Loop for just over a year. Executive Chef Stephanie Izard gained national fame with her first place finish during the fourth season of Top Chef. Running with the momentum generated by her win, she opened small-plates restaurant Girl and the Goat, where many ingredients are sourced from local farms. The restaurant is open daily for dinner and features fresh-baked bread, seafood dishes such as sautéed Hawaiian sunfish, meat entrees such as wood oven roasted pig face, and vegetarian options such as squash blossom rangoons. As you’d expect, there is also a selection of goat dishes available, like goat carpaccio and goat legs. If you don’t have reservations, expect a long wait. Arriving when the doors open (4:30) is your best bet for snagging a table quickly.
Bistronomic
Chicago Magazine – “Best New Restaurant 2011”
Located on the Gold Coast, Bistronomic is a French restaurant led by Chef Martial Noguier. You’ll find a nice selection of small plates for sharing as well as full-size entrees. Brunch, lunch, and dinner are served daily. For dinner, try Bistronomic’s renowned charcuterie or flights of cheese to start. Entree highlights include the tartine of the day, oxtail ravioli, and pan roasted duck magret. Reservations accepted.
Lillie’s Q
Food & Wine – one of the “Best New Barbecue Restaurants”
Chef Charlie McKenna opened Lillie’s Q in July of last year. Since then, this restaurant has become a top destination for barbecue in Chicago. Chef McKenna has won acclaim on the competitive BBQ circuit, and his Bucktown eatery offers a solid selection of classics such as the tri-tip sandwich, baby back ribs, and shrimp & grits. Reservations are not accepted, but if your large party provides a couple of days’ notice, Lillie’s Q will prepare a whole hog for your dinner.
Chicago Cut
CBS Chicago – “Best of Chicago”
Chicago Cut is making a big splash in the high-end steakhouse scene. Its North LaSalle Street location is prime downtown Chicago real estate, and has become an instant hit for power lunches. Chicago Prime also distinguishes itself by offering breakfast, which is uncommon for a steakhouse. Diners love the open indoor atmosphere and the two levels of outdoor seating. Also drawing praise is the service, quality of food, and iPad-based wine menu. For dinner, most eyes will wander to the selection of dry-aged, USDA Prime steaks, which includes a bone-in filet, Delmonico, and Chateaubriand.
prasino
prasino opened its third area location last month in Wicker Park. With a name derived from the Greek word for “green”, prasino emphasizes locally-sourced ingredients, organic produce, and eco-friendly architecture. This establishment is open for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. Features include a selection of kombuchas, sodas, juices, and smoothies, as well as items such as lobster stuffed avocado and grilled fish tacos. Reservations are accepted.
