Above & featured image: Dishes off Esmé’s Spring 2022 menu © Sandy Noto
Above image: Jenner Tomaska, chef-owner of Michelin-starred Esmé in Chicago © Natasha Moustache
Above image: Jenner’s take on borscht served at Esmé in winter 2022 © Paul Octavious
Restaurants
MAKO
“When we don’t want to think about what to order, we go to Mako for Omakase. For us, this is the highest quality experience you will get in the city, and we can’t get enough.”
GALIT
“For those days when we want to stay near home and are looking for something delicious, we stop by Galit. Galit has become a staple in our repertoire with undoubtedly the best pita bread you will ever taste. The restaurant has an all-around inviting feel, and we are beyond lucky to have chef Zach Engel and his team in our neighbourhood.”
LULA CAFÉ
“Lula Café is our favourite spot for brunch and lunch, but, of course, we’ve been in for dinner several times as well. The staff is always friendly, and the menu is always changing based on seasonality.”
Above image: soy-marinated salt water eel at Mako © Brad Danner
BUENA VISTA
“This is our go-to, favourite neighbourhood spot. We live around the corner, and I think there was a point in our lives when we ate here weekly. My wife has dined at this small, family-owned Mexican spot since she moved here and is very friendly with the owners and their family.”
Virtue
“When we’re looking for comfort and to be near family, this is where you’ll find us. Katrina and I both came from mk restaurant and worked under chef Erick Williams. Not only is the food at Virtue delicious, but we get to spend time with people we love and care about.”
Juno
“We celebrate every special occasion here, and basically order the entire menu. Both Katrina and I have been friends with chef BK Park for many years and are huge fans of his work.”
Avec
“If you’re coming in from out of town to visit us, chances are we’re taking you to Avec. With a warm and cosy space that prompts you to stay for far too long, Avec consistently pumps out delicious food. Oh — and their wine programme is phenomenal.”
Above image: interior of Virtue © Jack X. Li
Above image: dish on the menu at Juno © Izui Photography
Above image: interior of Avec restaurant
Bars
SPARROW
“This is another place we like to hang when it’s dark and cold out. You end up getting lost in the space, and with a large selection of spirits, wine, and beer, you are bound to lose track of time.”
ARMITAGE ALEHOUSE
“This is new to our area, but we love it. It’s moody and perfect for eating and drinking during the drab winter months. They do an excellent job of highlighting Indian and English pub fare.”
Moneygun
“Located under the tracks of the L, this is a no-frills, fun Chicago bar for classic cocktails.”
Above image: cocktails at Moneygun © Sandy Noto
SPORTSMAN’S CLUB
“An old-school Chicago bar offering forward-thinking mixology. It’s ok to have an Old Style [a beer and a shot] or a Ginger Turmeric Mule — both make sense in the space.”
PARSON’S CHICKEN AND FISH
“Close to home, huge patio, frozen negronis. Need I say more?”
POPS FOR CHAMPAGNE
“Both Katrina and I love champagne, so this is our go-to when we are looking for some bubbles and snacks. The team is highly proficient, and the selection is excellent. They also have great bar snacks.”
Scofflaw
“The home of the Swizzle 40. When I’m feeling like being transported somewhere warmer, this is where I visit. The bar itself doesn’t read tropical, but they do a great job of incorporating fabulous rum-based drinks into their menu.”
Above image: interiors of Moneygun
Above image: cocktail making at Sportsman’s Club
Above image: interior of Sportsman’s Club
To find out more about chef Jenner Tomaska and Esmé, visit the restaurant’s website and Instagram page.