"We stopped at The Purple Pig for lunch and we were pleasantly surprised at how great everything was. From the impeccable service to the great food, ambience and extensive wine list, we couldn't have been more pleased with our dining experience. read more

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Just an amazing experience all around!! The tuna tartare was exceptional as well as the sorbet with Bailey's. A little tight on seating but no complaints!! read more

Encore 9 years later, and I enjoyed it a lot. Since the time, it had moved to a new location which I found to be more favorable due to better space. I chose a seat at the bar, and without much trigger got into a nice conversation with other patrons. But why was I there again? Oh yes, the food. OMG, it was delicious: a winter salad, half a duck and an affogato. The portions were not shabby at all, and I am glad that the server warned me from another initial consideration which would definitely have been too much. I enjoyed every bite of all items, flavorful, tender and juicy, and simply on point. Will definitively come back when I return to Chicago. PREVIOUS REVIEW Very popular place and hence rather hard to get in. But the wait for once is worth it. The menu items, which come in small portions (tapas size), are very special and not to be found anywhere else. As surprising as some of the items may sound, they all looked great (even the once on other people's plates), and the ones I could get to taste were very special, interesting flavors, and very good. No specific recommendations but would suggest to leave some space for lemon panna cotta. Casual and trendy atmosphere on the Magnificent Mile. Definitely will go back again when in Chicago. read more

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A place so nice - I came back twice! I can't say enough about this place. I was here years ago and it was just as good today as it was back then! The options are varied, but you really can't go wrong. I most enjoyed the filet topped with bone marrow butter and crispy onions, the flavors were just perfect - and among the best steaks I've had! Also loved the mushrooms 3-ways, the beet salad, and the pesto burrata... but the show stopper was the beef tartare - a little twist on a classic with smoke cloche-dome presentation - so get your video ready for the gram! The service is exceptional and can guide you through including the perfect wine pairing, which I highly recommend. And let's forget the finishing touch... Desert, please! I had both the Affogato topped with pistachios, and the pecan tart... and had to pair the tart with a Port wine tasting. read more

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I've been to the Purple Pig a few times I. The past. It is still amazing, I sitar the bar next to the pass...that way I can watch the Chef expedite. Tonight I had the halibut and broccoli, both incredibly prepared. Flavors were perfect and popped with subtle yet distinctive profiles. The service was excellent and caring all of the staff were engaging and efficient. If ever in Chicago you NEED to stop in for a bite read more

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Another year and another outstanding meal. Everything so good. Tuna tartare still the best in the world. Great service. Cute restaurant hidden in an office building. Do yourself a favor and make a reservation. read more

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The Purple Pig in Near North Side is such a delicious spot. Everything we had was very yummy, and both the cocktails and food really stood out. You can tell a lot of thought goes into the flavors and execution. Do not skip the bone marrow. It was easily one of the highlights and something I would go back for on its own. Great energy, great food, and definitely a place I would return to. read more

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Love, love, love this place. The flavor sings in every dish. Everything is thoughtfully prepared and the staff is 100% peak professional. I could go on about each dish I've had over all the visits, but i would rather invite you to come and try the things that peak your interest. You can't go wrong with anything. read more

The Purple Pig - Feta salad with herbs - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Food here is excellent, came multiple times on my short trip. Its the best restaurant I tried. Service was good, ambiance is nice. The dishes are complex in flavor and really hit the mark. Every dish is next level and worth trying read more

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Second stop in the Chi. I was trying to avoid pizza in a city know for its deep pizzeria culture. The Purple Pig has a good wine selection, a decent selection of fromage, as well as an assortment of meat dishes to choose from, which sounded better on this particular evening. Cuisine: 4/5. Since I was trying to avoid pizza, I ordered the Chicken Thigh Kababs. Juicy kabab chunks, atop fried smashed potatoes and excellent house made Tzatziki. The Tzatziki is the standout here and it serves as a perfect contrast/amplifier to the meal. Beverages: 4/5. Sangiovese was a nice pairing with the meal. Not too heavy, and just right. Service: 5/5. Friendly and attentive. Ambiance: 4/5. Boisterous, busy, and beautiful interior. Fitting for the Sunday night dinner rush. No reservation and traveling solo, so I was able to score a seat at the bar. Family of five was looking at a 1 hour wait, so make a reservation or travel lean. Buen provecho. read more

The Purple Pig - Chicken Thigh Kebabs. - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

We visited here for a celebratory dinner on our first night in Chicago, and it was absolutely fantastic. The space is very nice, cozy and busy but quiet enough to hear your table-mates. The service was very friendly and fast, and our server helped us with recommendations as well. Everything we ate and drank was fantastic. I particularly loved the peach old-fashioned, which I believe was part of their spring menu. The food though was the real star. We tried two of the cheese appetizers and ate every single bite of both. They were so well seasoned and well thought out. The homemade pasta for the entree was incredible as well. I believe I had the short rib tortellini (tortolonni? It's been a few weeks since our visit) and haven't stopped thinking about it. The half duck was also fantastic and enough to feed two. This is a great place to go in Chicago. read more

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I was really looking forward to my dining experience at the purple pig, but unfortunately, it was underwhelming. Overall, the food was much more bland than I was expecting. And this was surprising for a restaurant that focuses on pork. For an appetizer, I had the duck croquettes and it just lacked flavor. For my main, I ordered the short rib ravioli, which had potential but was served on a bed of grease and used fat pieces as a garnish. Neither of my friends enjoyed their food. I think the restaurant focuses more on presentation than the actual flavors. The service felt very rushed for a place that is advertised as elevated. It felt more like a casual dining experience inside. I doubt I'd come back here. read more

I am visiting Chicago on a business trip. I had forgotten how much I love the food here and also how I don't enjoy the cold wind :) This place had exceptional food! The bone marrow had a fig jam and the bread was super tasty. The broccoli just melted in my mouth. The beets was very unique and the black ink squid risotto was phenomenal! The vibe to this was incredible! The server came over at the perfect intervals to check on us - the water was filled up without us asking. Loved loved loved this place! Hope to come back to other dishes - until my next business trip! read more

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A 4.5 stars with 9000 reviews! This place has to kick ass and take names specially in town with a lot of competition. Brought my coworker Eric after a long day at a workshop, decided to start with an espresso martini for a good wake up. Eric and I ordered three "snack" to share; mushrooms 3 ways, Crispy Pig Ear, and Roasted Piquillo Peppers. The mushrooms had a unique taste and the pickled onions were a nice contrast to the savory taste of the mushrooms and truffled sauce. The crispy pig ear had an egg on top of breaded onions and crispy spinach. We were advised to cut up the egg and mix it up with the other ingredients. Compared to the first course of mushrooms this course was at the other end of the pallet and taste spectrum. I'm not sure why it's called pig ear but it was tasty. The Stuffed Piquillo Pepper was my favorite course. It was hearty and came with crispy baguettes. The red sauce and the Italian sausage that was stuffed inside was very tasty. I'm a fan of the Purple Pig and recommend it to anyone looking for a place to eat tapas and choose from an exclusive wine collection along Michigan Avenue. Cheers! read more

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While visiting Chicago this week, a few of us stopped in at The Purple Pig for drinks and small plates. We got there a little early in the evening and it was quiet, but by the time we left, the place was packed. This is a very popular Chicago restaurant. We had the Grilled Broccoli, a cheese and meat platter, and the Whipped Feta. We all found the food and drinks well made and delicious! If you're planning on dining here, make sure you make a reservation. read more

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I was recommended this place as they are well known for pork-forward dishes and Mediterranean fusion. Luckily, I made a reservation beforehand, as it was quite full when we arrived on Saturday night. The server was quick to take our orders and give recommendations. Since it was St. Patrick's Day weekend, there were a few drink features. My friend ordered the Green Mile and thoroughly enjoyed the spice/salt rim over the tangy and refreshing drink. We opted to share various dishes. The menu was unique, and I was excited to try new things. The whipped feta, hummus, cauliflower, and crispy pig ear arrived first. The pig ear was crispy and delicious, pairing well with the kale. I liked that the whipped feta was creamy/smooth with a hint of sweetness. We later used the remaining smear to enjoy with the rest of the cauliflower and pork shank as well. I definitely found the main courses more impressive. The pork shank was savoury and rich, with the meat sliding straight off the bone. I liked the collard greens and risotto paired with it. This dish is one I may travel back for! The squid ink risotto was also very yummy. I liked that the calamari was mixed into the risotto, and the prawns on top were cooked to perfection. Finally, since it was St. Patrick's Day, the tiramisu was green or matcha tiramisu. I have to say, the green contributed to none of the flavour as it still tasted like regular tiramisu. Service was wonderful and consistent. My only complaint was that I had listed on the reservation that it was a birthday, but the restaurant didn't show any indication of knowing. However, thanks to the server for sharing his list of recommended restaurants and places to eat. That was a very sweet touch. read more

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Roasted bone marrow 16 -rich tasting Pork shoulder 19 -tender but salty Octopus a la plancha 22 Big portion and fair price but too salty on all dishes Only 2 of us eating and could have been enough for 3-4 read more

Arrived in Chicago, and checked into our room - on the way to the hotel I searched for a good restaurant nearby for dinner. When I read "pork" and "tapas" I was sold. I made a reservation and was lucky to get 1 remaining spot at 9:15 (was aiming for 8:30 - I got lucky!) Thank goodness because this food was delicious! We ordered too much food yet we ate all of it lol. Lets see, we had the Spanish Octopus, Roasted Beets, Beef Tartare, Serrano Jamon and Manchego, and I believe the Pork Shank, Pork Belly, and the Lamb Shank - omg - everything was so delicious, and the waiter was so attentive, water glasses filled, each dish a match to the last - not a bad bite the whole meal - the cocktails were strong, and the pleasure was immense. Wow what an introduction to Chicago! DELICIOUS! read more

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Great service! Our waiter and his team brought new plates and silverware for every dish and our glasses were never empty. There is a relaxed vibe here with small to large groups enjoying themselves. We met a nice person from New York seated next to us and enjoyed talking to him during dinner but also felt like we could have been the only two people in the room. This place is a tapas style restaurant and plates are meant for sharing but one plate could easily be one persons whole meal. We tried several dishes and all were delicious. The Whipped Feta was savory and delicious with toasted bread hot off the skillet. The Salted Beets were a delicious rendition of the dish with a peanut sauce on the bottom (at the end I loved that it reminded me of peanut butter and jelly)! Last we had the chicken kabobs and these were so savory with crispy skin on the outside, paired with fingerling potatoes and homemade tzatziki. We finished off our dinner with an affogato and bid our new friend farewell! Thank you for a delicious evening, we will definitely come back! read more

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Amazing wine selection and awesome pork shank. Enjoyed the charcuterie as well. A bit touristy but nostalgic too! read more

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This place nails it on the head! The food and the ambiance is great. It's a cozy, lively place. Always busy and never disappoints. If there isn't a long wait or if you're up for the wait, I'd recommend it. read more

This time back to the PP. Ordered the goat cheese spread which has generous portions of cheese but the dish comes with 4 slices of toasted bread which I had to ask for 2 more but they gave us 4 which cost us $2 extra. The goat cheese is good but the tomato puree was very salty. We ordered the lamb ravioli which comes with two large lamb filled ravioli topped with few noodles and the same salty tomato puree. The last dish we ordered was the lamb shank which was had nice portions, it has some light citrus sauce which taste odd with the taste of the lamb. Which all the entrees which I wish comes with some side like mash potato or veggy. Overall the dining experience was mediocre compared the the first time I was here. The waiter was in a hurry to get me checked out before I left the table. There was no line of people outside and plenty of tables available. read more

The Purple Pig - Goat Cheese spread - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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This is a really cool restaurant that specializes in - you guessed it - wines, meats, and cheese. Everything is served family style and is intended to be shared. I came here with my husband and two kids. No kids menu unfortunately but they tried the chicken thigh kabobs and salmon with us. My husband got the special which was steak. I chose a cheese to try & snacked off everyone's plates too. One of my kids loved the salmon, but didn't love the sides. My other kiddo didn't like much. We thought everything was tasty albeit it's a splurge place. We also had a reservation. Service was good. It is also hard to find as it's on the second floor. We came from the first and wandered around some stairwells before finding it. Clear signage would be helpful! I would come back as a special date night place, likely without kids. read more

The Purple Pig - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Me and The Queen had to go downtown to the Currency Exchange International (see review) to pick up pesos. The transaction at CEIFX did not take that long and since we had to drive downtown, we decided to find someplace nearby to have brunch so we could use up that 2.5 hours Spot Hero time. Using my trusty Yelp app, the Purple Pig popped up and was right next door, so need to move the car and we could walk there with no issues. Since it was around 11:30 am, the place was pretty empty with the exception of two women sitting at a high top. We were seated at a two top with menus. Our server introduced herself and asked if we wanted drinks and took our order. She then asked if we had ever been here before and we said no, so she proceeded to go through some of the more swine focus dishes. We opted to start with Smoked Pork Tongue with Tonnato Sauce and a Salad Olivier, which was like a macaroni salad in between two slices of pork tongue. This was so good we got two orders. That pork tongue just melted in our mouths it was so soft and tender. The second starter was the Tuna Tartare (Ahi Tuna, Avocado, Pistachio, Truffle, House-Made Squid Ink Cracker). This dish was not only tasty but a visual work of art. It was almost too pretty to eat, but not that pretty because The Queen and I tore into that bad boy. For my entree I got the Half Duck with Greek Yogurt, Smoked Trout Roe and these cute Brioche Buns. Trust me, I love pork, but I do love a good duck as well and was curious about those buns. I figure I will be back to try some of the other pork dishes, but wanted the duck and it did not disappoint. Not sure what it was glazed with, but it was slightly sweet and worked with the duck meat. The Queen got the Bucatini à la Amatriciana (Guanciale, Tomato Sauce, Pecorino Cheese, and Calabrian Peppers). She said it was on the spicy side but she loves spicy, so she was happy. She also enjoyed the pasta, which The Purple Pig made in-house. We both decided to finish off the meal with dessert. I got the Chocolate Sponge Cake with a roasted almond sauce and shaved almonds. I thought it was very good. The Queen got an Affogato with Espresso, Bailey's, Walnut Biscotti, Vanilla Gelato and Pistachios. I have seen this served at several restaurants as it is a favorite of The Queen's, but The Purple Pig's presentation is the way this should be served. The Vanilla Gelato and Pistachios are frozen in a cup with a well in the middle for the espresso and Bailey's. Usually I have seen this served where the liquids are poured over the gelato and it becomes a somewhat soupy mess, but this was amazing as you could eat the gelato and sip on the espresso and Bailey's. I don't usually do this as a dessert, but would come back here just to get that. The presentation was just wonderful and the cup it was served in was cold to the touch. For a surprising first time visit, this was a great find for us and I will definitely want to come back for more swine. Pork is the king of meats for me and this place seems to know what they are doing and do it well. read more

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The service was great! Very attentive! The food was unique and tasty! Will be back where when we are in Chicago again. It was a very unique experience. read more

The Purple Pig - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Still a favorite of ours! Make sure to make reservations. We were not able to but came around 4-5 and waited for someone to not show up for their reservations. It was quite a busy weekend. Their food is still very good. I got the Wagyu strip steak and my husband got the pork shank. Plenty of food. Had some pork shank left over. Got the pig ears and it was too crispy, still good but couldn't taste it besides the fried part. The drinks were good. We had to eat a bit fast since we didn't have reservations and they needed the table for the next party at a certain time. Next time, highly recommend reservations! read more

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I went to dinner here for the first time for a team dinner with my husband and his colleagues who were in Chicago for a conference. We were all thrilled with the quality of the food, the service and the ambiance of the restaurant and when I'm in Chicago again, this will be on the list. Let me start with the service - the whole staff was friendly, efficient without making you feel rushed or pushed into anything. When I asked for recommendations, our server had plenty to offer and everyone was delighted with the interesting flavors, the variety, and the quality of the dishes. My personal favorite was the Branzino - perfectly cooked, flakey, accented but not drown in a flavorful sauce. Spectacular. My husband's pork loin was a delightul plate as well with tender pork, not overcooked and spices that allowed the natural yumminess to explode. The Octopus was also mouth watering and perfectly cooked - tender and flavorful! The portions of all the dishes were plentiful and the pork shank with pork belly was also fabulous. We went with a wine recommendation from our server and it was spot on! I took a picture so I can find the wine when I get back home as it was a perfect accompaniment to our meal. It is a convenient place to walk to from several of the hotels and we recommended it to family who live in the area as well. You will not be disappointed and I 10/10 recommend. read more

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Went here for Valentine's Day and it did not disappoint! Everything was so delicious and well seasoned. It was my first time trying octopus and I was pleasantly surprised that it did not taste fishy or weird at all. It was nice and chewy, and also had a good taste with the marinade/sauce they use. The gelato was perfect and also the roasted red pepper appetizer and potato gnocchi. Even though there are lots of tables, it was still easy to have a conversation and didn't get too noisy. We came hungry and left very satisfied. read more

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We had a solid overall experience here. We were seated quickly after letting them know we had reservations, which was much appreciated. Service throughout the meal was attentive and smooth, and the food itself was tasty and well-prepared. The dining room did feel a bit crowded, with tables about a foot apart, but it wasn't enough to ruin the experience -- just something to be aware of if you prefer more space. My only real complaint was that my pork dish was a little too fatty, and there was an odd vegetable or fruit pairing on the plate that didn't quite work flavor-wise. That said, the meal was still enjoyable overall. All things considered, it's a solid place with good service and quality food, though the price point makes it unlikely that I'd return. Worth trying once, but probably not a repeat visit for me. read more

The Purple Pig - Pork chop - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Blown away by the Purple Pig. Worth its multiple Michelin stars. Bonus, learned all about Michelin star restaurants! We sat right at the counter overlooking the kitchen and listening to the chefs cook on the line, so it was like dinner and a (food network) show! They take exceptional care of every dish and every part of the experience is crafted by with excellence, from ordering to delivery. It was fun to watch the executive chef watch over and call some shots. Our drinks were the best we had all trip. The purple one was especially notable. Each piece of our meal, the drinks, the goat cheese plate, and the hand made pasta was absolutely outstanding. We wanted to order everything off the menu by the time it was finished. Our waitress was extremely knowledgeable and patient, she really helped us when ordering. Overall, I'd go to the Purple Pig every single day if I had the option. So amazing. read more

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This is a complicated review because it is largely based upon how upset I am about what happened on arrival. I showed up early for our reservation and were told they had no tables ready. I was told our options were to wait at the bar or wait outside and come back in 30 minutes. No apologies or offer of a free drink or comped desert/appetizer. This is completely unacceptable. I met me requirements by showing up on time and you did not meet your obligations and offered nothing in return. We sat at the bar for over a half and hour and when I went back to the front to say I'd be eating at the bar I once again received no apology or offer for my inconvenience. That was the primary bad experience at this restaurant. The bar staff was friendly and engaging. They were very helpful with the menu and the food was fantastic. This restaurant would have gotten 4 1/2 stars in terms of wait service and food quality but the front of the house performance was seriously sub par. I almost left before eating and had it not been so late I would have. read more

Lovely spot for amazing cocktails. I have been here once before for dinner. This time, we just stopped in for late afternoon cocktails. The staff are very attentive! read more

The Purple Pig - Clover Club - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Purple Pig is still one of those must hit spots when you're in Chicago, the food absolutely delivers, but wow they had the heat cranked up inside like it was survival mode in January. It got borderline uncomfortable during the meal, which took away a little from the experience. That said, the milk braised pork shoulder is unreal, super tender, rich without being too heavy, and packed with flavor. It is the kind of dish you end up talking about later. The crispy edges with the creamy elements on the plate are just done right. You can tell they really know how to balance bold flavors without it feeling messy. Service was great, the menu is still creative and fun, and the overall energy of the place is lively like always. Dial the thermostat back a notch and this is easily a full 5 stars. read more

Perfection! No reservation but lucked into a seat at the bar, next to the pass. It was the best seat in the house. Our server was attentive but not overbearing. The restaurant is well adorned and comfortable. Noise level is typical but conversation is easy. We saw the most professional kitchen brigade ever and front of the house was Michelin quality. Our food was tremendous. The portions, menu, offerings, and pricing were all 5-Star. The wine list is extensive and reasonable. Every plate we saw served was perfection. No flaw was getting by this pass. If you are within 100 miles of downtown Chicago. Make a reservation at the Purple Pig. You will thank me. read more

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This is my 2nd sniff in at the Pigster... Today "sniffed in" at 4.5 stars... BREAD: -- great texture -- LOVE that it is NOT sourdough -- oily, buttery -- fantastic for dipping into our residual sauce on the plates RATING = A+ SPANISH OCTOPUS: -- ultra-tender -- perfectly cooked -- marbled potatoes, jalapeno, sambuca, chimichurri, Spanish chorizo -- visually stunning and colorful -- amazing flavor RATING = A+ AGNOLOTTI: -- I do not eat this pasta often, almost never but WOW! -- thin sheet pasta brilliance on display here -- beef short rib, creamy bone marrow, brown butter and wine au just RATING = A+ PORK BELLY: -- I did not love the ginger glaze, but I am sometimes not a fan of the use of ginger -- I found this dish too sweet and too sour and the combo and boldness of each did not work for me on the nose or palate RATING = B STAFF are exceptional and the dining space is pleasing. Not pretentious or fancy but beyond casual. This establishment is consistently legit per our friend, wife and me. We love staying at nearby hotels so this will always be on our list. read more

The food here was really delicious and the staff did an excellent job accommodating our various dietary restrictions. First the salads are great - cauliflower broccoli and winter salads. We loved the pork belly, salmon and the cheese with passion fruit jam. Would definitely come back for more! read more

The Purple Pig - The pork belly was excellent - would go back for this! - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

7/23/25 Michelin Bib Visiting Chicago and I had this on my list to try because of the bone marrow and a co worker told me I had to try Purple Pig when I get to Chicago, so of course top of the list to do. John was amazing, he was smiling, friendly and patient. Talked us through the menu. And Abel was helpful. Iced Coffe and Ginger Ale Bone Marrow - OMG definitely a must have Endive and Duck Salad - delicious, funny it tasted like Prosciutto, shrug 36 Day Aged Pork Chop - the best pork chop EVER! I would love to get this again someday in the future! Definitely must try, so worth it!!! read more

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Our group of 7 loved this place! We all agreed it was the best dinner we've had in awhile. Ambience is cozy and dark-wood vibes. Smaller tables and round tables for larger groups. Service was friendly and prompt. Food is mostly all small plates and meant to be shared. All the plates come out at different times, so even if you order your "own dishes"... they will be served at various times throughout the meal. Fun spot for adventurous groups! read more

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I believe this is a Michelin recommended restaurant and rightly so. We didn't feel like dressing super fancy and it had more of a cocktail atmosphere which was fitting, lots of wine, whiskey and other drink selections. The service was super friendly and the food was amazing. I would definitely recommend the butternut squash and burrata for an appetizer. We also had the Branzino which was great and on the lighter end to balance out the heavier half-of-duck entree. The duck was cooked to perfection and the flavor was amazing , but I think they could tweak the accompanying labneh and bun, I didn't think it complimented it that well. We finished it off with a coconut gelato and coconut shavings which instantly made me feel like I was staying in Italy and Hawaii with one taste. Love this place! read more

The Purple Pig - Butternut squash burrata - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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It's been a decade since I came here last time lol Very glad to find out that they take reservations now, as that's one of the main reason that prevents me from coming. We tried a lot of dishes and most of them are sublime. I especially like all the pork belly dishes - very tender and juicy with a crispy crust that is very flavorful. Pork tongue, almost tastes like bacon, was also a popular dish. It is basically a pork tongue sandwich with mac & cheese in the middle. However, 5 selection cheese n meat board was weak and it costs $37. Squid Ink pasta was also pretty basic when compared to other dishes. The place was a bit too loud unfortunately, but I'm going back for sure and I know which dish to avoid. read more

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