Thursday, May 20, 2010

Windy City Eatin', Drinkin' & Thinkin' Spots

Here is an abridged list of NRNer picks for dining, drinking and concept snooping in Chicago. Llink to the full NRN.com spread below.

Robin Lee Allen, executive editor: While I’d still recommend such longtime favorites as Bistro 110, there are several restaurants I’m eager to visit [including] Sunda...

Mark Brandau, Chicago bureau editor: Sable Kitchen and Bar — Heather Terhune’s new restaurant at the Hotel Palomar is big on small plates, or what she calls “social plates,” which don’t disappoint...

Elissa Elan, East coast bureau chief: Alinea – Culinary wizard Grant Achatz showcases molecular gastronomy at its best...

Paul Frumkin, deputy managing editor: Buddy Guy’s Legend — It’s not quiet, but it is CHICAGO in capital letters. A great blues club with tons of atmosphere and pretty good food...

Chris Keating, associate publisher: Kingston Mines — The greatest [blues] bar in America. Live shows don’t start till 10 p.m....

John Kruger, Midwest regional sales and marketing manager: The Chicago Firehouse — A quick getaway in a converted Chicago firehouse just one mile north of McCormick Place. Lunch, dinner and a good bar menu...

Alan J. Liddle, managing editor: Wow Bao. Steamed Asian buns, potstickers, bowls, salads and gingerale served in relatively small but polished space. Ordering and payment by counter, kiosk, iPhone or web...

Sarah Lockyer, executive editor, NRN.com: The Original Gino’s East of Chicago — To keep it real, this spot is deep-dish pizza at its best. Seriously. NoMI at the Park Hyatt Chicago...

Pamela Parseghian, executive food editor: Chicago Craft Beer Week — Check out the last days of the first craft beer week in Chicago, May 17-23. Beer tastings, “Meet the Brewer” nights, beer dinners and brewery tours...

Ron Ruggless, Southwest bureau chief: Blackbird Restaurant — While open since 1997, the sleek décor and modern menu remains current. The name comes from the French slang for the merlot grape...

Susan Szymanski Vincer, publishing director, NRN.com: Big Star — Great tacos, beer and a crowd, so go early or be prepared to stand in line. As an extra bonus, if you get bored you can pop across the street to The Violet Hour...

FULL LIST & LINKS