2017: The Hangovers Get Worse, but the Food Keeps Getting Better
Oh 2017, you tricky bitch. At the risk of sounding like a cliche, this year was truly a mix of some of my highest highs and well, some other things I’d rather forget. On the bright side, 2017 was filled with more wine, travel and tapas than I ever could have asked for (or that my health likely needed). I was lucky enough to spend over 150 days outside of Chicago, traveling across the states and 7 different countries (Cuba, France, Milan, Spain, Portugal, Germany and Canada).
So with that, it is time for another fond reflection of the most memorable things I ate and drank this year. To the people who were along for the ride - thank you for always being willing to go splitsies. I’ve done my best to focus in on the Chicago experiences, but if you’re traveling to any of the other places I’ve visited in 2017 let me know. I would love to share the highlights!
Paulie Gee’s - Logan Square, Chicago, IL
I dream about the Paulie’s Prohibited Pepperoni square pizza.
Little Bad Wolf - Andersonville, Chicago, IL
There’s a lot to love about this place. I hope their burger is the reason my heart stops beating some day.
Oriole - West Loop, Chicago, IL
Without a doubt, one of the top 3 meals I’ve had in my life. Don’t skip on the beverage pairing. It was so creatively done and really elevated an already outstanding menu. Almost made the 27 days on the road to earn it, worth it.
Moneygun - West Loop, Chicago, IL
If you don't know already, I feel pretty strongly about Moneygun. This list wouldn’t be complete without a shout out to the fried smelts and buffalo okra. Blessings.
Barrio - River North, Chicago, IL
The Chimichurri Skirt Steak Torta might just be the best sandwich I’ve had in recent memory.
Estereo - Logan Square, Chicago, IL
This place is great. The layout makes you feel like you are sitting inside a Latin themed Ed Hopper painting and the drinks tasty.
Bluebird - Lakeview, Chicago, IL
This place was a surprise. My first impression was that it might be on the next episode of Restaurant Impossible, but I left full of the best Shrimp Poy Boy I’ve eaten in the Windy City.
Honey’s Chicago - West Loop, Chicago, IL
I’ve never made it past the bar in Honey’s, but what I saw, I liked. It was a Monday night full of outstanding oysters and the bartender amusing my curiosities about her signature cocktail. I appreciated her patience.
Momotaro - West Loop, Chicago, IL
I’ve had a pretty abusive relationship with Sushi in Chicago (hard pass for me on Sushi Para II and Tanuki), but Momotaro showed me the light. Akami, Chutoro, Otoro, you’re welcome.
Quiote - Logan Square, Chicago, IL
Bone. Marrow. We almost ordered a second round. That’s about all you need to know about that.
If you made it this far, I have just one small request before you go. Will someone please, for the love of all that is holy, just go to Boeufhaus with me in 2018? Happy New Year, ya'll.