Forbidden Root

As Chicago’s first botanical brewery, Forbidden Root aims to create seasonal dishes that highlight their unique craft beers.

WHISK (CLOSED)

This BYOB joint serves brunch all day. Salty or sweet, these brothers bring creativity and fun to this whimsical spot.

Shokolad

Shokolad offers a café setting delivering traditional and modern Ukrainian dishes, while the pastry shop serves up authentic European pastries and cakes.

Arami

A creative and contemporary sushi and Japanese kitchen. Relax and enjoy in the garden-like atmosphere.

Takito Kitchen

Takito Kitchen specializes in artisanal tacos and Mexican cuisine with surprising flavors. You’ll discover Middle Eastern and Asian inspired flavors in an eclectic and electric atmosphere.  The staff is friendly and knowledgeable and the open kitchen creates an exciting vibe. They boast an amazing drink menu as well. 

Bite Café (CLOSED)

Bite Café is a cozy, bustling neighborhood diner, offering a chef-to-table dining experience. It offers an eclectic menu of dinner items and creative brunch selections, including poutine. Plenty of vegan and vegetarian options as well. Don’t forget dessert; you won’t regret the calories!  BYOB. Next door to the Empty Bottle bar.

Briciola (closed)

An Italian trattoria with a fabulous patio and a delicious seasonal menu. This BYOB eatery offers expertly prepared simple Italian dishes, with creative twists, in a cozy, warm atmosphere.    

My Idea Of A Perfect Meal...

By Simone Black
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It's so difficult to create a perfect meal since there are so many options. I think that I would start with the fried calamari from Club Lucky that could feed an army. It is slightly seasoned with a light batter and fried to perfection. For dinner it would be a toss up between the homemade 8 Finger Cavatelli with marinara sauce from Club Lucky. It's a thick, doughy pasta covered with  their delicious tomato marinara that's a little chunky, but spiced to perfection. The other perfect entree would be the Rock Island Arsenal from Roots.

Chickpea (closed)

Fresh, delicious food, with simple Palestinian flavors. Features an American kitsch décor with free pinball games and homemade cooking at a good price. Alcohol is not permitted and there is no table service.