L2O
Chicago, IL ` 60614
Phone: (773) 868-0002
- Price:
- $$$$
- Cross Street:
- Belden Street
- Directions:
- Bus: 156 to Fullerton & Stockton
- Hours:
- Mon, Wed-Thu 6pm-10pm, Fri-Sat 5pm-11pm, Sun 5pm-9pm
Editorial Review for L2O – by Jennifer Olvera
In Short
Situated in the historic Belden-Stratford hotel, this globally minded seafood spot swaths diners in luxury even before they perch at heavily grained tables with Jetsons-esque seats. Floor- to-ceiling wires create the illusion of privacy while dividing the subdued, neutral space that's manned by unobtrusive servers wheeling sculptural carts. The menu is divided into raw, warm and main selections, and the prix-fixe approach means diners choose one from each category, plus dessert. Although the menu changes, examples might include cherrywood-scented golden eye sea bream with shiso bud or lamb tartare with ebi shrimp, pickled peach and tarragon. Every last detail, down to the bread that's served, is intricately constructed.
Photo by Katherine Bryant
Editorial content is independent of paid advertisers. Any expenses are paid for by Citysearch.
Insider Tips
Know Before You GoDiners should expect to pay $165 for the 12-course tasting menu or $110 for the four-course prix-fixe menu. A handful of seasonal a la carte selections can be added in or swapped out with preordained selections.
Look GoodJackets are recommended for men dining here. Similarly, women should be well-heeled.
The ExtrasThe restaurant offers customized shabu-shabu service at tables.
Where to SitPlan ahead and reserve the intimate tatami room.
Fun FactHere's how the restaurant got its name: L stands for the chef's first name, and 2O refers to the last half of the molecule, water, that's critical to seafood's success.
User Reviews for L2O
05/23/2008 Posted by ChrisGrohneWilson
After my dinner last night, I can still barely construct a sentance. It is that good. Go to L2O as soon as you can.
05/19/2008 Posted by AmyQPublic
Opening night was Wednesday, May 14th. Had I not known it was opening night, I wouldn't have noticed as dinner was flawless. The dining room is fairly minimalistic but luxurious with leather chairs and wood walls. The service was gracious and attentive from my welcome at the front door until the end. My favorite dishes were octopus with coconut foam and skate wing with a red wine reduction and asparagus. Dessert was shockingly good and the simply named "Chocolate and Raspberry" had everything from raspberry cotton candy to dark ganache on one plate. I have a feeling this will be the hottest restaurant soon. There is something for foodies and the "see and be seen" crowd. Wow!
Pros: Everything!
Cons: It is pricy but worth it.
