It’s time for holiday shopping downtown!
You’ve dragged yourself along the Magnificent Mile; or maybe you spent an hour fighting freeway traffic to shop in uber-hip Wicker Park. Either way, you’re starving! And you’ve earned a rest and something decidedly tasty to eat. Where to go? Fear not, intrepid shopper. We’ve got you covered.
Mag Mile
Deca Restaurant & Bar
Located in the 12th floor lobby of the Ritz, this oasis of calm is a sweet respite from the hubbub below. They make a Croque Monsieur and a Pumpkin Flatbread to die for. Ritz-Carlton Hotel, 160 E. Pearson St., 312-573-5160
Balsan
I love their two-course brunch and a bubbly cocktail, but they also have the best roast chicken in town. 11 E. Walton St., 312-646-1400
Le Colonial
Enjoy exotic salads and spring rolls beneath the palm fronds at this upscale French-Vietnamese restaurant. 937 N. Rush St., 312-255-0088
Pierrot Gourmet
The baked goods are fantastic—the macarons are delish—but don’t ignore the Tuna Melt or the Alsatian Flambee. 108 E. Superior St., 312-573-6749
The Purple Pig
Antipasti galore, gorgeous cured meats and cheeses abound. Save room for the Sicilian Iris dessert! 500 N. Michigan Ave., 312-464-1744
RL
If it’s good enough for Oprah and The Biebs, it’s good enough for you! Updated preppy favorites like Chicken Hash, Riff Raff Salad, or Toasted Cheese and Tomato Soup. 115 E. Chicago Ave., 312-475-1100
Tortoise Club
Brand spanking new! Just opened, very clubby atmosphere, promising menu. 350 N. State St., 312-755-1700
State St./Loop
Atwood Café
This Art Deco gem knocks it out of the park at lunch and brunch. 1 W. Washington St., 312-368-1900
The Gage
How I long for their Duck Confit Hash and Eggs, or their perfect burger topped with ripe Camembert and Onion Jam. Sigh. 24 S. Michigan Ave., 312-372-4243
Lockwood
You will weep for their Stuffed French Toast, not to mention the Mac ‘n Cheese with bacon. 17 E. Monroe St., 312-917-3404
Terzo Piano
Here, plates of food are works of art, fitting since this beautifully designed restaurant sits in the new wing of the Art Institute. 159 E. Monroe St., 312-443-8650
Tesori
This spacious dining room (in the old Rhapsody space) is a welcome relief from the State Street bustle. Fresh pastas, pizzas, salads, all with a decided Italian accent. 65 E. Adams St., 312-786-9911
Bucktown/Wicker Park
Big Star
My secret to avoid the lines? Go for lunch. The Sonoran Hot Dog is every bit as tasty, as are the Tacos de Pescado. 1531 N. Damen Ave., 773-235-4039
Feast
Brunch is served here Friday thru Sunday, and whether your tastes run to Chilaquiles with Chorizo or a Crab Benedict, you will leave happy. 1616 N. Damen Ave., 773-772-7100
Grass Fed
Light and bright during the day, lovely for lunch or weekend brunch with a nice selection of salads and sandwiches… or perhaps you’d prefer Fried Chicken & Waffles? 1721 N. Damen Ave., 773-342-6000
Hot Chocolate
They are, of course, known for their desserts, but don’t be fooled. This place makes some serious savory food as well, with an emphasis on seasonal produce from artisan farmers. 1747 N. Damen Ave., 773-489-1747
Piece Brewery & Pizzeria
A New Haven-style pizza is a thing of beauty, especially when it’s a white clam pizza, accompanied by an award-winning brew. 1927 W. North Ave., 773-772-4422
Storefront Company
I’m in love with their brunch menu, especially the Lemon & Ricotta Souffle Pancakes and the Blue Crab Omelet. This place has a very cool vibe. 1941 W. North Ave., 773-661-2609
Andersonville
Andies Restaurant
This long-time Mediterranean favorite is consistently tasty and easy on the wallet. 5253 N. Clark St., 773-784-8616
Big Jones
Heirloom Southern food and hospitality are the hallmarks here, be it Gumbo Ya-Ya, Shrimp and Grits, or fresh-baked Sally Lunn bread and Cornbread Muffins. 5347 N. Clark St., 773-784-8616
M Henry
Breakfast is served all day, and since I can eat the aptly named Blackberry Bliss Cakes at any time, that’s a good thing. They also have an incredible array of sandwiches. 5707 N. Clark St., 773-561-1600
The Burger Philosophy
Sure, the Fries with Blue Cheese and Bacon paired with a Nutella shake might change your dress size, but it will be worth it. 1541 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., 773-944-0373
