All of Chicago’s Past James Beard Award Winners | Eater Chicago
"The Mag Mile’s “cheese, swine, and wine” spot isn’t just popular because of its location. Its success can be largely attributed to Rising Star Chef winner Jimmy Bannos Jr. (Rising Star Chef, 2014), who comes from a long line of restaurateurs and was mentored by his father, Jimmy Bannos (Heaven on Seven). His approachable and inventive shareable plates evoke the Mediterranean region, and guests often wait hours for a table. In 2019, the restaurant relocated down the street from its original home, but its reputation remains: Tourist trap, the Purple Pig is certainly not. Bannos Jr. has left the restaurant, and co-founder Tony Mantuano has since returned." - Naomi Waxman
The Purple Pig
