If you enjoy a good bite, you simply must make the trip to Chicago
1. Alla Vita
Coming in hot with the number one spot: Alla Vita. Anyone would be happy to lay eyes on this restaurant’s beautiful works of art and hanging greenery. The ceiling captures guests’ eyes, drawing them further into the airy dining room and getting them excited to take a look at the menu.Â
The unique yet classic Italian menu is bound to exceed expectations. The best way to dine at Alla Vita is with a large group in order to grab a bite of everything. The portions are generous, and the menu options are perfect for those wanting to try something new. Starting with the uniquely brilliant kale salad, the appetizers list is extensive and guaranteed to please everyone in your company. The Ricotta Dumplings are a fan favorite and with good reason; light, airy, and soft, they’re the perfect bite that melts in your mouth.
Next, go ahead and order every single pasta dish on the menu and pass them around. Dynamic options, from a classic Rigatoni alla Vodka to their Tagliatelle with a beef ragu sauce, will leave your taste buds grateful for Alla Vita. I know you’re already stuffed, but don’t forget dessert because the tiramisu is to die for! Alla Vita is well worth the visit and will have everyone raving for weeks after their meal. Be sure to check it out!Â
2. Little Goat Diner
The Little Goat Diner is owned by Stephanie Izard, champion of the 2017 Iron Chef competition and the first woman to win Bravo’s Top Chef title in 2008. Little Goat Diner is a modern take on vintage diners of the past. It is simple, current, and most importantly, welcoming to all who are lucky enough to score a reservation. With the high-profile team behind the operation, and of course the fantastic food, Little Goat Diner will never be empty, so make sure to plan ahead.
Your mouth will be watering upon entry to this establishment. It has the best, most comforting aromas that scream brunch, so be sure to arrive hungry. The menu ranges from savory to sweet, with savory options including a delicious reuben, a buttermilk chicken sandwich, a corned beef hash, and tacos. A good sweet option is the dark chocolate chip pancakes. With no shortage of options, it’s hard to choose one, so why try? Not only does the menu have more than enough to offer, but the specials are always a fun surprise and always changing – all the more reason to go more than once! Even if you can’t secure a reservation at The Little Goat Diner, Stephanie Izard has other restaurants worth checking out, and she won’t disappoint.Â
3. Bryn Mawr Breakfast Club
Bryn Mawr Breakfast Club is owned by Manny Mejia, a man who found himself in Chicago at the young age of 15 years old. After discovering his talent for breakfast and working his way up the culinary totem pole, he opened the lovely Bryn Mawr Breakfast Club in Chicago. Bryn Mawr, and now the Belmont location, are both perfect casual yet impressive breakfast spots.Â
With a menu composed of Meija’s twists on classic breakfast, everyone is guaranteed to find a breakfast that hits the spot. Not only does this establishment utilize space with utmost efficiency, it creates a warm and bright atmosphere that puts a smile on any customer’s face before the food even hits the table. The skillets are to die for, as are the sweet breakfast foods on the menu. There’s no shortage of things to try at Bryn Mawr Breakfast Club; it’s worth multiple trips to both locations!