While Logan Square and the West Loop garner most of the glory when it comes to new restaurant and bar openings these days, an unlikely neighborhood is amassing sizable acclaim of its own. Hyde Park, long regarded by north siders as mere museum and college territory, is in rapid expansion mode in terms of dining. From a European-inspired eatery to meatloaf tartines, there are lots of new things to see and eat in this south side neighborhood.
 

Chicago bars and restaurants are all about collaborations, not only by supporting one another but by working together to create specific pairings, dishes, and drinks. Such is the case with a couple new collaborations taking place this month, including a zany pizza-beer combo and some special cocktail teamwork.

Considering the trajectory of our recent winter, you’ve probably never been happier to see an asparagus stalk in your life. It’s with wide open arms and mouths that we welcome spring menus to Chicago restaurants, invigorating our numbed senses with the rejuvenating life force of greenery. New menus continue to roll out on the regular, but here are some standout menus and dishes that provide a potent taste of spring in the Midwest.