How Chicago's Dining Scene Lost Its Mojo

By John Kessler
Photos by Ryan Segedi
Styling by Kelly McKaig

Our once-vaunted restaurant town is in decline. John Kessler offers an unsparing five-point manifesto that explains why — and how we can fix it. Read more

A Thai Newcomer with Potential in Heart of Chicago

By John Kessler

Situated blocks outside of Pilsen's gentrifying core, Gin Khao Eat Rice serves belly-filling food from a shoebox storefront. Read more

Near Midway? Get These All-Day Breakfast Tacos and Hefty Pambazos

By John Kessler

The taqueria is a budget-friendly destination worth returning to over and over again. Read more

The Food Lover’s Guide to (Sorta) Healthy Dining in Chicago

By Carly Boers, Maggie Hennessy, John Kessler, Jeff Ruby, Carrie Schedler, and Claire Voon Photos by Jason Little

We found the city’s most delicious ways to eat well — because good food and good health don’t have to be mutually exclusive. Read more

A Southerner’s Food Quest on the South Side

By John Kessler

I’d come to 75th Street beset by a craving for caramel cake, my ultimate sugar fix, a cherished token of the South I left behind three years ago. Read more

A Bakery that Marries Mexican Fare with French Techniques

By John Kessler

Pan Artesanal is a budget-friendly newcomer to Logan Square. Read more

Get Your Fresh Pasta Fix at Ravioli & Co

By John Kessler

This River North spot fills the need for great pasta that won’t break the bank. Read more

Chef Daddy’s Slings Mouth-Watering Soul Food in Austin

By John Kessler

Come for the chitterlings, stay for the $4.99 meatloaf deal. Read more

Rica Arepa Venezuelan Café Makes Some Seriously Hearty Arepas

By John Kessler

With almost two dozen varieties to choose from, you’re bound to walk away satisfied. Read more