"Hermosa may look similar to a neighborhood hot dog or beef stand that many Chicagoans grew up with, but chef and owner Ethan Lim, who had a stint as a server at Alinea Group’s Next Restaurant and the Aviary, uses his culinary talent to take Chicago classics to the next level, incorporating Asian flavors to create a Cambodian fried chicken sandwich and an Italian beef banh mi. For those who want a composed meal rather than a fast-casual sandwich, Lim also offers a popular “Family Meal,” essentially a chance to buy out the entire room for dinner with a bespoke tasting menu with communal influences, something Lim says is integral to the Cambodian dining experience. Must-order dish: Hermosa does splendid things with chicken and is known for its fried chicken sandwich, but we love the roast chicken that’s become a fixture at dinner. The herbs and flavors are something we dream about enjoying." - Ashok Selvam