MK features an innovative new American menu with global influences that focuses on the freshest ingredients available. Near North Side 868 N. Franklin St. Chicago, IL 60610 (312) 482-9179 Premiered 2/6/2009
Located in the Blackstone Hotel, Mercat a la Planxa creates Catalan style tapas. South Loop 638 Michigan Ave. Chicago, IL 60605 (312) 765-0524 Premiered 1/23/2009
Eclectic diner food with a kitschy decor. Evanston 514 Main Street Evanston, IL 60202 (847) 869-4964 Premiered 1/30/2009
Los Nopales offers a full menu of delicious Mexican recipes, popular house specialties and luscious desserts. Lincoln Square 4544 N Western Ave Chicago, IL 60625 (773) 334-3149 Premiered 2/6/2009
Seasonal full-service Riverwalk concession (with wait staff), which is an offshoot of Auburn Greshama's Lagniappe Creole Cajun Joynt, specializes in Creole and Cajun fare. The opening menu includes dishes such as Cajun chicken wings and waffles (they call them wangs and waffles), jambalaya, fried green tomatoes, blackened chicken and po'boys. Englewood / Auburn / Gresham 1525 W. 79th Street Chicago, IL 60601 (773) 994-6375 Premiered 11/14/2008
Honky Tonk BBQ serves up Memphis-style barbecue. All of the briskets and ribs are lightly seasoned, allowing the flavor of applewood to spice the meat. Heart-healthy side dishes counter all the cholesterol, including an amazing salad of mixed greens, walnuts and blueberries. Pilsen / Heart of Chicago / Little Village 1213 W. 18th St. Chicago, IL 60608 (312) 226-7427 Premiered 10/17/2008