Victoria: Seems like you can't go wrong with the margaritas, pork belly tacos, and tacos al pastor here
Vlada: This is a second favorite, right next to Big Star
Emily: +1 to Vlada
Vlada: Pan-style + cartelized crust. It's an institution, but isn't considered "Chicago-style." You're also not going to get Chicago-style from me.
Vlada: Right by my old apartment. This is pizza pot pie - which is an experience. Long waits, I don't think they do reservations.
Vlada: Their frozen margs will get you. In a good way. See if the backyard is open, it gives the place more space.
Emily: Not in the *cool* part of town, but if you're in the area, you should absolutely go. I got a cocktail that had a bacon garnish, and maybe one of the top 5 ramens I've ever had.
Emily: Please. You must. May have to wait a lil, but it's a tiki paradise... I think the restaurant attached had a fire and isn't there anymore, but if it is, you are in for a real treat.
Vlada: +1 to Emily
Emily: HI THIS PLACE IS BYOB AND IF YOU BRING WINE THEY WILL GIVE YOU MIX FOR SANGRIA AND IF YOU BRING RUM THEY WILL GIVE YOU MOJITO MIX ALSO THERE IS A CHURRASCO THAT I AM MILDLY RELIGIOUS ABOUT
Emily: PLEASE GO FOR ME VICTORIA, YOU'RE MY ONLY HOPE. This is like if Milano's were in Chicago, but it had mozzarella sticks.
Vlada: It's a nice walk down from Lincoln Park (where I used to live) down toward downtown. You can go through the zoo and walk further down along the Lakeshore path.
Emily: Really you can go to any Small Cheval. Au Cheval is the real deal, but like, do you really want to waste your precious hours waiting? This location is on the 606 though, which is basically Chicago's High Line. Great to walk off your burger.
Vlada: This is my favorite prefix menu, but it's in a weird part of town. It's a go there and then comeback back sort of deal.
Vlada: Another prefix menu by the same guy that did Alinea, but more approachable and also not as far as El Ideas.