2D atelier

"The concept of 2d Restaurant is intriguing: A mochi donut and fried chicken spot (with lots of plant-based alternatives) covered in a completely monochrome, Paris-inspired backdrop. Every surface—walls, floor, and furniture, inside and out—is white and outlined in hand-drawn, thin black lines for a flat effect that actually looks pretty cool. Unsurprisingly, the charm of hanging out in a comic book illusion wears off quickly once you post it on social media. And while you might be able to get your fill of photos, the food at this Lakeview cafe is unsatisfying. The donuts are oily and dense, with thick frosting that’s hardened into a shell. The chicken sandwiches are oily too, with a flavorless fried chicken breast that’s drowning in something called “Rooster sauce” (a very drippy, spicy mayo). Plus, the space is cramped, kind of dingy, and you’ll have to wait 25 minutes for a table." - Veda Kilaru