The Michelin Guide won’t be awarding any of its coveted stars until later this year, but it just honored six Chicago spots.
The announcement comes on the heels of the James Beard Awards, where local favorite Lula Cafe won for Outstanding Hospitality. It’s no surprise that the accolades keep rolling in, seeing as the city is home to some amazing restaurants.
Here’s what Michelin inspectors had to say about the latest additions.
Cariño
“Indeed, this breathless tasting menu features boldness and creativity in spades, starting with “chips and salsa” in the form of salsa verde jelly and a tortilla crumble. The best seats are at the counter, which offer an up-close view of this small team, all of whom work diligently and engage with guests freely.”
John’s Food and Wine
“Meet your new neighborhood hangout. With exposed white brick, a comfy banquette stretching the length of the room, and a friendly bar with an engaging wine program, this restaurant isn’t going to struggle to make friends. One caveat: There are no servers so diners have to order at the counter before being escorted to a table.”
Maxwells Trading
“It can feel as if half the city is dining in this quiet pocket of West Loop. Conversation and laughter bounce off the hard warehouse floors and large, black-framed windows and travel along a bar that looks almost endless from the front door. The cooking behind all this commotion assuredly plays with Japanese, Chinese and Thai elements.”
Sifr
“In this quiet, sun-soaked corner of River North, the team behind Indienne hits the mark with this Middle Eastern charmer where tables crowd with dips, small plates, and items hot off the grill. You’re expected to share but that’s easier said than done.”
Taqueria Chingon
“Inspired by the street food of Mexico City, this chef-driven taqueria in Bucktown by Marcos Ascencio and Oliver Poilevey is a constant hive of activity. During the day, find the signature al pastor alongside hits like duck carnitas with date puree and sunchoke-habanero salsa or a particularly stellar fried queso with mole negro.”
Warlord
