Edition: Chicago: Straight Up
Diverse Chicago Dining
Author: By Theresa Page
Bored with the usual pizza-taco-burger routine when it comes to Chicago dining? Head to these ethnic restaurants and skip the mundane menus.
KAZE
2032 W. Roscoe St., 773-327-4860.
This modern Roscoe Village Japanese spot is a cut above the average sushi joint; instead of the usual soy, ginger or wasabi, chef Macku Chan uses seasonal accompaniments for a fresh flavor punch. In addition to the sushi and cooked fare lineup, Chan also offers a seasonal tasting menu. On the menu: pan-fried bass with watercress and pineapple sauce; pan-fried tuna with Japanese mountain vegetables; deep-fried black cod with bittersweet chocolate and slivered almonds.
LAO SZE CHUAN
2172 S. Archer Ave., 312-326- 5040.
Lao Sze Chuan, which is located in Chinatown, offers an enormous menu with a wide variety of dishes, including more authentic choices than you'll find at your corner carryout. Chef-owner Xiao Jun Hu favors the fiery flavors of the Szechwan province, but the spice skittish can ask the kitchen to dial down the heat. On the menu: salt and pepper scallops; Peking duck; black pepper beef tenderloin.
INDIA HOUSE
59 W. Grand Ave., 312-645-9500.
This classy River North Indian spot offers a broad menu, including a plethora of items that are prepared in the tandoor oven. In addition to favorites like tandoori chicken and shrimp, there are upscale options like lamb chops and lobster. The menu also highlights vegetarian selections. On the menu: chicken tikka masala; lobster curry; lamb vindaloo.
CUATRO
2030 S. Wabash Ave., 312- 842-8856.
Can't decide between Columbian or Cuban? Problem solved. Head to this stylish South Loop spot where the creative Nuevo Latino menu features flavors from multiple Latin countries. On the menu: beer-braised beef short ribs with fire-roasted tomatilloavocado salsa; ovenroasted chicken breast stuffed with poblano peppers and farmers cheese; chimichurri-crusted filet mignon medallions.
Kaze Sushi
2032 W. Roscoe,, Chicago, IL 60618
KAZE's seasonal cuisine, comfortable décor and knowledgeable service will provide you and your guests a dining experience that is both entirely satisfying and highly memorable.
Atwood Cafe
1 W. Washington St., Chicago, IL 60602
Reminiscent of a Viennese coffeehouse, the Atwood Café's slim chandeliers and plush seats beckon hungry shoppers and well-dressed business folk. Its menu includes “sophisticated American fare” such as butternut squash risotto and pan-seared duck; the café is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Yolk
1120 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60605
This South Loop breakfast and lunch spot, which is close to the Museum Campus.
Pops for Champagne
601 N. State St., Chicago, IL 60611
Live jazz, huge champagne list, and a fireplace create a memorable atmosphere.>
India House
59 W. Grand Ave., Chicago, IL 60610
The extensive menu features both vegetarian and non-vegetarian choices, with many items roasted in the tandoor oven. Indian House offers a daily fixed price lunch buffet.
Cuatro
2030 S. Wabash Ave., Chicago, IL 60616
Cuatro’s menu features Latin American and Caribbean dishes, earth tones, floor-to-ceiling windows and an eight-foot aquarium full of tropical fish. If you’re stopping in for dinner, Live Latin jazz bands and DJs are slotted for entertainment most nights.
