Let’s Eat! A Guide to Chicago Restaurant Week!
“Life should always be like this... like lingering over a good meal. ”
It’s that special time of year! Chicago Restaurant Week (CRW) is here and who doesn’t like to EAT GOOD on a budget?! From March 25 to April 10 you can indulge in a restaurant tour of your own making.
I’ve already kicked off my CRW tour with a visit to Boqueria, a spanish tapas spot in Fulton Market, and Chalet, a ski resort-themed location serving brunch and dinner. My visits so far were just what the Top Chef ordered. Of course, I plan to drop into several other places before it concludes, but a few of my Insta and IRL friends told me I should let y’all in on how to best maximize this time!
Brit may be living but Brit is also sharing so… let’s dive in shall we?
Who, what, when, where?!
While CRW is a fun time it can be overwhelming due to the number of restaurants participating and the variety of meal options. But don’t fret, I got you! My tips on how to choose where to go:
Check out the Choose Chicago website which lists all the participating restaurants, their featured menus, and a quick booking option for most. Proper preparation prevents poor performance!
Prioritize restaurants you’ve been wanting to try for some time. Most places bust out the best compilations of their menus, or fun & new chef’s additions so now is definitely the time to visit.
Weekdays work well for those often booked locations so look for reservations before the weekend hits if you can!
Don’t be afraid to try places out for brunch/lunch if you can. While the menu will differ from their dinner offerings, you’ll still get a great idea of what their kitchens can truly do.
Brit’s Hits
Like I mentioned above I will be sliding through more restaurants, especially since Chicago Restaurant week is technically just over two weeks now. That’s 17 days of good eating!
Some places I HIGHLY recommend or will be trying out myself are below. If you see me out and about say hi!
RPM Seafood (Downtown/Riverfront)
You can’t go wrong with any of the RPMs but surprisingly I have yet to go to this sister restaurant since it opened in the city but I will be changing that VERY soon!
I’ve wined and dined at BLVD and you won’t be disappointed. It’s also a very pretty restaurant so throw on something that makes you feel fly and make it a MOMENT.
14 Parish & Rhum Bar (Hyde Park)
This was a favorite of mine when I lived in the neighborhood and if you’re looking for flavor and yummy drinks, this is the one. Did I mention it’s black and woman-owned? GO SUPPORT.
This is one of my favorite finds of 2021. Unique twist on Mediterranean food in a good location for hitting your choice in River North bar before or after. If you go… get the dates and the branzino!
I love this place. I’ve previously mentioned them here on the blog and I’ve already been this month for date night. Take a chance and indulge in the rotating Chef’s menu and you will NOT be disappointed. Their drink menu is also a fun exploration of flavors and liquor profiles.
A relatively new spot in the neighborhood known for great tacos and margaritas, but there’s truly so much more to try. Pilsen Yards offers a delicious dinner menu and weekend brunch and if you’re into solidly crafted cocktails, their small but mighty speakeasy, The Alderman is worth the wait.
If you visit any of the above, or try a place you can’t stop raving about tell me! Comment below with your hit list so we can compare. Till then, Bon Appetit!