Maman Zari Charms With Its Persian Tasting Menu By John Kessler Iran’s family-style cuisine gets reimagined as a clever tasting menu at Maman Zari. Read more
Ummo Is a Splashy but Inconsistent Indulgence By John Kessler The new River North restaurant from the group behind Tzuco is as much about the scene as the food. Read more
At Smoque Steak, New-fangled Cooking Falters, but Service Shines By John Kessler The Avondale restaurant bets big on techy sous vide, but where the restaurant shines is with its old-fashioned hospitality. Read more
Tuk Tuk Thai Takes Us On a Joy Ride By John Kessler The new spot takes diners on a vibrant journey through the funky, spicy cuisine of northeast Thailand. Read more
Warlord Is Chicago’s Most Thrilling New Restaurant By John Kessler With a constantly changing menu and zero ego, the Avondale restaurant is a standout in the city's dining scene. Read more
Kyoten Next Door Is Otto Phan’s Stellar Sequel By John Kessler With his more affordable Kyoten Next Door, Otto Phan offers a streamlined yet still stellar omakase. Read more
Chef Jonathon Sawyer’s Kindling Fails to Spark By John Kessler The new restaurant is thrilling in sheer scale and chutzpah, but clumsiness can undercut the experience. Read more
Splashy Brasserie Le Select Still Needs Some Work A Review by John Kessler The glitzy new restaurant from Daniel Rose and Boka Restaurant Group stumbles out of the gate. Read more
Food Hall Fancy By John Kessler With Valhalla, Stephen Gillanders finds his voice in an unlikely location. Read more
Refined Indian Flavors Abound at Indienne By John Kessler The Indian chef delivers big flavors at Indienne, but his dishes are short on personality. Read more
