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Alfresco

Enjoy gorgeous views of the city in the precious few months of good weather Chicago has to offer. Piccolo Sogno 464 N Halsted St #1 Chicago, IL 60642 (312) 421-0077 http://piccolosognorestaurant.com/ Bistro Campagne 4528 N Lincoln Chicago, IL 60625 (773) 271-6100 www.bistrocampagne.com/   Volo 2008 W Roscoe St Chicago, IL 60618 (773) 348-4600 www.volorestaurant.com/   … Continued

Arami

One of my favorite sushi spots in Chicago; small, intimate and while the omakase (chef’s tasting) runs a tad $$$, selections are wonderful and creative without slipping into cliché (cream cheese, unagi sauce, etc.)

Roka Akor

Based in London, with an outpost in Scottsdale, it reeks of corporate dining, but it’s a fun, efficient machine with a super-huge Japanese robata grill featuring imported binchotan charcoal to sear, then mesquite to add smoky flavor to an assortment of steaks, shrimp and vegetables. Sushi service is also very good, but not as good … Continued

Ruxbin

One of my favorite BYOBs in Chicago; corkage just $5 per table. The chef is a former Per Se vet, so despite the low-key ‘hood, the food has higher aspirations.

Iron Chef America

I’ve twice been a guest judge on the highly-acclaimed cult classic, “Iron Chef America” on the Food Network.  Click on the video to see some of the highlights.

Unique Eats

I’ve been a frequent contributor on the “Unique Eats” show on The Cooking Channel; this one featured wine bars, including one of my favorite places to eat in Chicago: The Purple Pig.    Wine Bars