September 8, 2009

33 Club Chicago

Jerry Kleiner continues his Chicago reign with this clubby, old-school Euro restaurant. Chef Daniel Kelly (Tramonto’s Steak & Seafood) helms the kitchen, churning out upscale bar snacks (bacon popcorn) and satisfying entrees (Maine lobster-stuffed chicken breast).

  Near North Side, Food & Drink, Euro, Old School

September 8, 2009

LuxLounge Chicago

Bartenders sling specialty drinks and DJs spin at this Gold Coast nightspot, tucked above LuxBar.

  Gold Coast, Food & Drink, Classic Cocktails, DJs

March 19, 2009

More Chicago

Consulting pastry guru Gale Gand dreams up whimsical flavors both sweet (chocolate champagne, blackberry açai) and savory (maple bacon, artichoke lemon Parmesan) for a modern bakery experience.

  Near North Side, Food & Drink, Delivery, Private Parties

January 22, 2009

Kitsch'n River North Chicago

Kitsch’n serves lunch and dinner, but go for the breakfast. Fun dishes like the Hangover Breakfast, Green Eggs and Ham, and fried chicken and waffles make comfort food lovers feel happy.

  Near North Side, Food & Drink, Breakfast, Brunch

November 14, 2008

Hop Haus Chicago

Ostrich, kangaroo, wild boar, and salmon burgers abound. Excessive toppings (Texas chili, hickory bacon) and more than 30 beers make this delicious go-to spot the reason Chicagoans are fat.

  Near North Side, Food & Drink, Beer, Late Night

November 13, 2008

Fox & Obel Chicago

Gourmet grocer is stocked with top-notch chocolate, cheese, fresh fruit and veggies, and old-school candy jars. Grab a bite in the casual eatery in back.

  Near North Side, Food & Drink, Breakfast, Ritzy

October 30, 2008

Vosges Haut-Chocolat Chicago

Get your sweet fix here, with everything from run-of-the-mill dark and light chocolate to more adventurous combos like chocolate-plantain, chocolate-bacon, chocolate-mushroom, and more.

  Magnificent Mile, Food & Drink, Beer, Private Parties

August 4, 2008

Sushi Samba Chicago

Yes, it’s a chain — but the food tastes divine. Fresh fish daily and a delicious weekend brunch that won’t break the bank.

  Near North Side, Food & Drink, Brunch, Classic Cocktails

June 23, 2008

C-House Chicago

Located inside the Affinia Hotel, C-House and C-View (rooftop lounge) offer the freshest catch (Marcus Samuelsson helms the kitchen) and stellar views.

  Near North Side, Food & Drink, Breakfast, Classic Cocktails