The Purple Pig Restaurant
Mediterranean restaurant · Near North Side
444 Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
![The Purple Pig Restaurant by The Purple Pig [Official Photo]](https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/62593453/purple_pig.164.jpeg "The Purple Pig Restaurant by The Purple Pig [Official Photo]")
Highlights
Pork and wine specialist with Mediterranean flavors, open kitchen
Pork and wine specialist with Mediterranean flavors, open kitchen
"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
"A lively Chicago eatery with Mediterranean inspirations from Greece, Italy, and Spain, featuring dishes like salt-roasted beets and whipped feta." - Ty Gaskins
"This downtown Mediterranean restaurant is a constantly bustling small plate bonanza even though it moved from its original location. Recently, founding chef Jimmy Bannos Jr. left the restaurant, so 2025 will be a year of transition." - Eater Staff
"A Mediterranean restaurant offering a menu of Mediterranean-inspired dishes." - MICHELIN Guide
"Post boat tour, keep the touristy yet enjoyable theme alive by heading to The Purple Pig - the one restaurant on Michigan Avenue that doesn’t make us want to kill ourselves. They don’t take reservations and there’s probably going to be a wait, but you won’t mind because there’s plenty of space on their walkway to hang out and have a drink. Your friends will be impressed and you’ll actually have a great day." - sam faye
