If you are interested in Japanese Ramen, perhaps for lunch, you MUST go to Ippudo. Hand made noodles, the only other place on earth that you'll find them is in Japan. The Shiromaru Hakata Classic with thin-sliced Berkshire pork and an egg, and a side of bakudan to spice it up quite simply changed my life. Order a beer and you're in for about $20. Can't go wrong, shouldn't be missed. Have a great time!!
Great interview with Grant and the places he goes for pizza and cocktails: http://www.thefeast.com/chicago/restaurants/Cant-Live-Without-Grant-Achatzs-Favorite-Places-in-Chicago-118255379.html
After a 14 year hiatus, I am back in the restaurant industry. I refer to the chef as 'Chef' in the kitchen and on the floor, and by her first name when off the clock. I have a great deal of respect for her and her profession, yet I also feel like she is a friend of mine, so I think it would be weird to refer to her as 'Chef' when we're having a drink together.
The Patterson House has excellent food, and the cocktails can't be missed! You really can eat well there, and there's a wide variety to choose from; not your typical bar food by a long shot, thanks to The Ryan Harris and Josh! City House is worth checking out, too.
The people who started this thread have long gone, but for those still following, I just went to Palo Santo and had an outstanding meal! We had 9+ courses and wine pairings for just over $100pp. The food was incredibly well done, very fresh, their spices often just picked from their rooftop garden. The homemade tortillas and the fish taco were a standout for me. I look forward to going back!
Highlights included Kirk, Frog, Rob Cooper, Luke's, Cochon, the cocktail party at Presbetyre, and the Absinthe tasting at....gee, where was I by then? The only lowpoint for me came when I had to leave before the week's end.