by Jennifer Olvera - 3381 Reviews - 45 List
Though it sports vestiges of its Swedish roots, Andersonville has grown to be a thoroughly hip destination unto itself. These days, it's loaded with all manner of restaurants, both endearing and destination-worthy. Here are some of the best restaurants in Chicago's Andersonville. (Photo of Big Jones' fried chicken salad courtesy of Andrew Shay)
Updated: July 26, 2010
Food-minded folks flock to this cute storefront for bold and creative regional Italian fare that's easy on the budget. The homey selections are seasonal; expect the likes of smoked trout with radish greens, green beans, shards of red onion and preserved lemon yogurt. In warm weather, enjoy your meal in the tranquil, flower-flecked back courtyard.
The coastal Southern cooking of Paul Fehribach is loaded beneath the Mason Dixon musts--think corn relish with remoulade, Cajun-tinged frog legs and Benne wafer-crusted chicken with hot-sour greens. There are also tweaked creations, such as a sweet tea-infused pork chop with pureed baked beans.
Vibrant, welcoming and oh-so-aromatic, this restaurant affords a communal dining experience rivaled by few. Among the faves is kitfo, Ethiopian-style beef tartare that's seasoned with mitmita, dried, ground chili pepper and spices, and served rare to well-done. Lots of lentils and tibs--cubed, seasoned meats--are also wildly popular.
Artisanal pizza that brings foodies to tears is the game at this off-the-beaten-track pie hole with a short-list menu of chewy-crusted ?zas. You'll have trouble choosing between the seasonal selections, which may include zucchini, Dante aged cheese and black pepper or spinach, fresh cream and green garlic. No matter; you'll have plenty of time to decide while waiting in line.
This fabled institution culls sweet tooths from far and wide. The reason? Unforgettable nut-studded and cardamom-scented coffeecakes, little tarts crowned with glossy fruit, delicate butter cookies and pretty petite fours.
The fixed companion to the mobile food truck imagined by Matt Maroni serves up signature naan-wiches in a fuss-free storefront setting. Though the offerings change with the seasons, selections may include a number with fennel pollen-scented, wild boar belly with olives, yogurt and shaved red onion.