Hemmingway's Bistro offer French cuisine using fresh local ingredients. The menu includes French classics such as Coq au Vin, Duck al' Orange, and Caussoulet Toulousain. Chef Ala brings fresh seafood in daily for dishes like wild mushroom-crusted halibut and the Parisian seafood bar offering towers of Plateau de Fruit de mer which includes oysters, clams, shrimp and lobster. The atmosphere is comfortable and relaxed. Oak Park 211 N. Oak Park Ave. Oak Park, IL 60302 (708) 524-0806 Premiered 1/27/2012
Edzo's offers perfectly prepared burgers, ground fresh in-house daily, at a great price. Choose from the 4 ounce griddle burger or the thick and juicy 8 ounce char burgers. There are all-beef hotdogs as well! Complete your all-American meal with a hand-dipped milkshake in a variety of flavors and hand-cut, twice-cooked fries. It's simple, fresh, and affordable. They are not open for dinner, so make sure to get there for lunch! Evanston 1571 Sherman Ave. Evanston, IL 60201 (847) 864-3396 Premiered 1/27/2012
Enjoy a fine Italian menu in a cozy and relaxed atmosphere at Buona Terra Ristorante. Freshly selected ingredients are used to create a menu of both traditional and modern Italian dishes. This family run business offers an extensive wine list and an affordable prix fixe menu on Thursday nights. Logan Square 2535 N. California Chicago, IL 60647 (773) 289-3800 Premiered 1/27/2012
Zealous offers Contemporary American cuisine with global influences. The ever-changing seasonal menu includes uniquely paired ingredients such as sesame crusted Chilean sea bass with pan-fried rice noodles and red coconut curry sauce or grilled beef filet, braised short rib with mushroom potato lasagna and truffle reduction. Tasting menus as well as complete multi-course vegetarian, and five-course or seven course menus are also offered. This fine-dining experience takes place in a large converted warehouse that is warm and tranquil. Zealous provides an extensive wine list and delicious desserts to top off your dining experience. Near North 419 W. Superior Chicago, IL 60610 (312) 475-9112 Premiered 2/3/2012
Restaurant Sarajevo provides an authentic Bosnian cuisine experience. The menu of homemade specialties has Turkish, Greek, Italian, and Mediterranean influences. The menu of meat dishes are primarily beef and lamb. The hearty dishes are prepared using local fresh ingredients. This family owned restaurant is offers a festive atmosphere with an old-world charm. A BYOB restaurant. Lincoln Square 2701 W. Lawrence Chicago, IL 60625 (773) 275-5310 Premiered 2/3/2012
Pan pizza is the star at this out-of-the-way, neighborhood pizza joint. Plan your visit by ordering a day or two in advance and keep an open mind about the service - pizza lovers say the pizza is worth it! Seasonal beers are on tap. Not known for a fancy decor, the eclectic decor in the small space has its own special charm. Morton Grove 8541 Ferris Ave. Morton Grove, IL 60053 (847) 965-7997 Premiered 2/3/2012