Originally the first Indian restaurant on Devon, Standard India Restaurant, now on Belmont, serves traditional Indian dishes in keeping with a long family tradition of authentic New Delhi recipes. The only Chicago Indian restaurant to serve thali, the table settings are entirely stainless steel and the food is flavorful, plentiful, and fresh. The service if helpful and friendly. A great value. A BYOB restaurant; you may consider bringing your own glassware. Lakeview 917 W. Belmont Chicago, IL 60657 (773) 929-1123 Premiered 1/6/2012
Traditional Mexican cuisine is served up with a modern flare at Mercadito. You'll find distinctive guacamoles and a wide variety of tacos and enchiladas. The flavors are vibrant and the ingredients are fresh and exotic. They provide a large beverage program of mixed drinks and a tequila lounge. The atmosphere is exciting, energetic, and trendy. Great for a fun night out or a special occasion; this place really comes to life at night! Near North 108 W. Kinzie St. Chicago, IL 60654 (312) 329-9555 Premiered 1/6/2012
Tazza offers a quality Italian meal in a pleasant, relaxed family atmosphere. Enjoy Chef Rosie's own recipes of traditional Italian pastas, pizzas, salmon, veal, soups, and more. Portions are large and the service is excellent. A generous selection of wines is available by the bottle or the glass. Homer Glen 14065 S. Bell Road Homer Glen, IL 60491 (708) 645-0485 Premiered 1/6/2012
Jibek Jolu offers a rare Kyrgyzstani menu to Chicago. It is a Central Asian mix of cuisines from Russia, Turkey, China, India, Afghanistan, and more. This family run restaurant offers a variety of flavorful meat dishes, savory pies, home made noodles, as well as dumplings. A cultural cuisine adventure. Lincoln Square 5047 N. Lincoln Ave. Chicago, IL 60625 (773) 878-8494 Premiered 1/13/2012
The Gage is a vibrant bar and restaurant, serving American cuisine with global influences. Enjoy a classic pub feel contrasted by a quality fine-dining experience. Plentiful dishes are offered on an eclectic and creative menu that includes rare items like Scottish eggs or chilled watermelon soup. Guinness is on tap, the wine list is extensive, and the desserts are divine. The service is attentive and knowledgeable. Loop 24 S. Michigan Ave. Chicago, IL 60603 (312) 372-4243 Premiered 1/13/2012
Zaleski & Horvath is a counter service sandwich shop with an environmental conscience. Organic, locally produced meats are on the specialty sandwich menu along with a unique selection of regional side items and freshly brewed Metropolis coffee. Choose from the menu or craft your own. You'll also find an organic fresh foods market and deli. A good value that is also BYOB. Hyde Park / University Of Chicago 1323 E. 57th Street Chicago, IL 60653 (773) 538-7372 Premiered 1/13/2012