MICHELIN Guide’s Point Of View

One of the true gems of South Loop, Acadia is the impassioned restaurant of the talented Ryan McCaskey. Pulling from his Vietnamese heritage as well as his travels in Maine, Chef McCaskey’s cooking is ambitious, precise and deliciously technical. Perhaps even more importantly, his kitchen’s commitment to that vision is palpable in every bite. Set between glassy apartment buildings and a small patch of grass, Acadia is a distinct stand-alone destination. The interior is decidedly elegant, with soaring ceilings and a soothing blend of warm neutrals, cool grays, as well as chocolate and sage peppered throughout the lofty space. Service is gracious and professional—the kind we all hope for but rarely find these days. A guest at the bar can choose from an à la carte menu; while the dining room offers a seven-course feast. A meal in this brigade's sure hands might reveal an Isle au Haut scallop fresh off the coast of Maine, set over a raviolo filled with pastura con trufa cheese, ramps, morels and sumptuously finished with Normande sauce. The signature Yukon gold potato "risotto" studded with tender leeks, sweet English peas, savory morels and truffle butter is pure exquisiteness.