Z's Kitchen: Dining Out

My favorite part of living in Chicago are the fabulous restaurants. We are spoiled in this city, and have so many options at our fingertips. Here are some of my favorite spots in the city, and I do not mess around when I go out for food. This is serious stuff, so any of these places will satisfy your palate and stomach, I PROMISE!!!

Best BBQ hands down, Smoque will just blow your mind! From the succulent pulled pork to tender brisket, this is all stick to your rib deliciousness. The place is usually packed and has a long line when you walk in, but don't be discouraged, it moves really fast and they have a seating system that just works great.

My favorite: Pulled pork with hand cut fries

Baby Back ribs, check out the mac:)

During Chicago chef's week, I had to try Perennial which is located in Lincoln Park.

We started with Truffle Gnocchi, unbelieveable. You think it's gnocchi, but the texture is sponge like and melt in your mouth delicious.

Braised short rib, potato terrine, thumbelina carrots, sauce béarnaise. Heavenly. Need I say more?

Grilled Atlantic salmon, butternut squash, caramelized brussels sprouts, shitake mushrooms. This fish was cooked so perfectly. It was so buttery and light, I literally lifted off my seat a litte.

So you think that was enough food? HA. Nope. We had to get the Mac N'Cheese with bacon as a side. Not only was it bacon, but PANCETTA. Now, pancetta is a whole new level of bacon that I respect so much. They were huge nuggets of pancetta in this side that was enough to feed a table. Portion was superb.

So my husband Rani's finger, and the dessert, Hazelnut Crunch. Wow. I was so full but of course managed to fit this. This wonderful concoction consisted of a crispy hazelnut bar, some sort of carmel crystalization on top, creme fraiche, chocolate caramel. This had nutella written all over it, and that makes me it's number one fan!

If you live in Chicago, and you haven't tried Zig Zag Kitchen, then you have to check this place out. I would say I eat there about once a week. This place has to have the best hummus in the city, and I am really picky about my hummus. They have the most fresh ingredients, and I never feel bad when I eat here!

Tri-Colored Tortellini

Lime Cilantro Chicken Salad

Mediterranean Salad with Salmon

One of my favorite places to splurge on fine dining would have to be Nacional 27! Not only does this place know how to serve innovative dishes, but they have an amazing drink menu to top it off. Don't forget about the salsa dancing on the weekends! This is my kind of place:)

Passion Colado Mojito- For 2