The 38 Best Restaurants in Chicago | Eater Chicago
"Esme won’t be for everyone. Jenner Tomaska and his wife Katrina Bravo have transformed a corner Lincoln Park space into a gallery where they can showcase local visual artists on a rotating basis. The commitment extends to the tasting menu which often incorporates the artist either through the plating or another esoteric manner. There’s playfulness for this special occasion spot, which aims to show that working-class Chicago can feel comfortable in an upscale scenario full of sauce dots. A recent menu includes Dover sole, unusually presented as a rack akin to lamb. But the elegance remained. Tomaska is a Chicago native and an Alinea Group veteran. The lineage is apparent, but the chef is keen on giving customers more than just an onslaught of course. He wants to trick them into actually taking away something extra with their meals. Vibe check: Esme often hosts special events and partners with local artists so they can exhibit their work and matches their menu to the art. Check their website for more info." - Ashok Selvam
