City: Chicago, IL

Category: Restaurants

Telephone: (773) 862-5555

Address: 2152 N. Damen Ave.

Description: Wondering how fresh the food is at this Bucktown restaurant? Just check out the chalkboard on the back wall that lists the daily-changing offerings. Owned by a trio of industry vets, including chef Chris Pandel, this intimate neighborhood bistro of sorts keeps it uncomplicated. From its decor—recycled-wood communal tables, cement-topped bar—to the food, which focuses on seasonal dishes with Mediterranean roots, like handmade ravioli, roasted bone marrow, and seared swordfish with fried kale. Offal fans get treated to a selection of unusual meat cuts made possible by the butchering of animals in-house. Handcrafted cocktails are a specialty here or opt for one of their craft beers. The same attention to farm-fresh ingredients applies to their Sunday brunch. Open every day for dinner and for Sunday brunch.