7 New Chicago Restaurants
Cold weather has come to Chicago all too soon, but that hasn't kept the restaurant scene from blooming. Here are some standout restaurants opening that are worth checking out this autumn.
Now Open:
Just off Randolph Street, Parlor Pizza Bar offers a fun, casual choice among the fancier establishments on Restaurant Row. Once an auto repair shop, the building has been transformed into a cozy and expansive eatery. Grab a seat at by the kitchen to watch the chefs firsthand as they prepare unique pies like the Hawaii Pie-O with coconut cheese.
Esteemed chef Paul Kahan's newest place, Dove's Luncheonette, has opened just next door to his immensely popular Big Star in Wicker Park. Fashioned like an old-school diner, Dove's serves up flavorful Tex-Mex dishes including a torta, chile relleno, and ceviche.
Another food truck has made the move to brick-and-mortar. The owners of the popular Pierogi Wagon truck have opened Polak Eatery in the Humboldt Park neighborhood. This café crafts rustic Polish dishes with a modern touch. Of course, pierogi are a menu highlight, with more expansive options in the works.
This highly praised fast casual burger shop Umami Burger has finally made its way to the Windy City. Their first location is open in Wicker Park and brings plenty of delectable "fifth taste" options. The Calabrese is their Chicago signature burger: a Calabrese sausage patty topped with truffle cheese, truffle aioli, and giardinara.
Coming Soon:
Charlatan, by the guys behind Three Aces, has been long awaited in the West Town neighborhood. The planned menu revolves around locally sourced, modern Italian fare. The restaurant is aiming for an October opening.
Massive Japanese restaurant Momotaro will be opening in mid-October in the West Loop neighborhood. The menu is inspired by the food found in the daily lives of the Japanese people and will offer small plates, noodle dishes, sushi, robata, and more.
Also in West Loop, Formento's will offer Italian-American family-style food., with a menu focusing on rich flavors and traditional recipes, paired with a carefully crafted wine and cocktail list. Formento's is due to open before winter.