Last year, Chicago saw the arrival of Three MICHELIN Star Smyth and their creative yet seasonal menu; One Stars Atelier and Indienne, with the former serving up original American bites and the latter becoming Chicago's first Starred Indian restaurant; and Green Star Daisies with their sustainable practices that place an emphasis on fresh produce.
This year, the spotlight goes to Chef Norman Fenton's Cariño, where a celebration of Mexican cuisine takes place with each dish (think huitlacoche ravioli with fried corn silk and a lamb tartare tostada).
Below, we reveal what exactly captivated our Inspectors' palates. Bon appétit!
New One Star
Cariño
Cuisine: Mexican
In a cozy corner of Uptown where the train rumbles overhead, Chef Norman Fenton mines his history and his travels to celebrate Mexican cuisine in a distinct, ambitious manner. He lists out ingredients like an auctioneer, and his pace is energetic. Quickly, the courses compound: A stunning huitlacoche ravioli with fried corn silk, then a queso truffle quesadilla, and at some point, a lamb tartare tostada seasoned in the style of al pastor. Indeed, this tasting menu features boldness and creativity in spades, starting with “chips and salsa” in the form of salsa verde jelly and a tortilla crumble. The best seats are at the counter, which offer an up-close view of this small team, all of whom work diligently and engage with guests freely.
One MICHELIN Star
Atelier
Cuisine: American
Boka
Cuisine: Contemporary
EL Ideas
Cuisine: Contemporary
Elske
Cuisine: Contemporary
Esmé
Cuisine: Contemporary
Galit
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Indienne
Cuisine: Indian
Kasama
Cuisine: Filipino
Mako
Cuisine: Japanese
Moody Tongue
Cuisine: Contemporary
Next
Cuisine: Contemporary
Schwa
Cuisine: Contemporary
Sepia
Cuisine: American
Topolobampo
Cuisine: Mexican
Green Star
Daisies
Cuisine: Italian
Hero image: Kelly Sandos / Cariño
