8. Acadia

  • 1639 S. Wabash Ave.;
    312-360-9500
    South Loop
  • American
  • $$$$
  • Chef: Ryan McCaskey

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American, progressive, contemporary, classic, high-end but not stuffy–with a great burger. Way back when Acadia was a glimmer in McCaskey's eye, he said it would be all these things, and he delivered. In the sleek minimalist dining room, the pickings are chic and pricey, but the deconstructed lobster pot pie (pictured on our cover) is oh so worth it. In the convivial bar—where Michael Simon, the bartender, will skillfully concoct anything you want—the burger topped with bacon-onion jam is a contender. The Fancy Dan menu can be had in the bar, which means wherever you sit, you can have McCaskey's masterpiece: risotto made with Yukon Gold potatoes and green apples.

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Michael Simon, Acadia bartender

Michael Simon, Acadia bartender

Price symbols indicate the typical cost of a meal (without tax, tip, or alcohol) per person.
¢ … under $20 | $ … $20 to $29 | $$ … $30 to $39 | $$$ … $40 to $49 | $$$$ … $50-plus