Madhura Cafe Has Home-cooked Tamil Soul Food By John Kessler Nestled in a strip mall in Deerfield, the South Indian snack shop has some of the most tempting thali in Illinois. Read more
Head to the Burbs for Bangkok Sweets By Titus Ruscitti Forest Park’s Habrae Thai Café & Eatery has an abundance of Thai desserts (and some great savory options). Read more
Plates of Heaven at Tengoku Aburiya By John Kessler The West Loop Japanese gastropub from Sangtae Park serves comfort food at lunch and fires up a binchotan grill at night. Read more
Disc Jockeys at Chile Toreado By John Kessler Sometimes referred to as Mexican pizza, a tlayuda is flat as a cracker and topped with meat, cheese, and veg. Read more
Noble Thai Strikes a Perfect Harmony By John Kessler This West Town Thai spot has us rediscovering our familiar favorites. Read more
New Fave: Sochi Saigonese Kitchen in Lake View By John Kessler The first restaurant from wife and husband Chinh Pham and Son Do is a vibrant heritage bistro. Read more
This Hot Pot Restaurant Is Pure Gold By John Kessler Qiao Lin Hotpot in East Pilsen has plenty to keep you entertained — including striking presentations. Read more
Minahasa Puts Mom’s Recipes on the Menu By John Kessler A former Gibsons Italia chef and his mom bring Indonesian home cooking to Chicago. Read more
Dongpo Impression Is the Real Deal By John Kessler An unassuming Chinatown newcomer offers a nuanced take on Sichuan cooking. Read more
Kumbala Delivers on Promise of ‘Dope Tacos, Bomb Pozole’ By John Kessler After some fits and starts, Israel Fernandez III and Wilfredo Bravo are serving up soulful Mexican snacks out of Spilt Milk. Read more