Elia, a modern Mediterranean restaurant in Wicker Park, is now open | Eater Chicago

"A modern Wicker Park restaurant from the team behind a popular Roscoe Village Turkish spot, presenting a Mediterranean 'fusion' approach under chef Ezgi Bozdas. Bozdas—who emigrated from Turkey in 2008 and rose from dishwasher to stints at acclaimed kitchens—frames the menu as a blend of cuisines from around the Mediterranean rather than a single national style. Dishes include four types of hummus, saganaki, a hulking braised short rib, and seafood and vegetable risottos, and the space emphasizes a bar-forward vibe (a DJ booth was replaced by stacked high chairs). The dining room includes a large bar and a modern private dining room; the space was gutted and redesigned by architect/designer Berrin Ulutas. It opens at 5 p.m. daily with the kitchen open until 10 p.m. on weekdays and 11 p.m. on weekends; the bar stays open later, and lunch, happy hour, and brunch are planned with reservations via OpenTable." - Ashok Selvam