ChIcAgO ’ S NoRtH ShOrE
Evanston , IL
Just north of Chicago along the shores of Lake Michigan , Evanston enjoys the benefits of its proximity to Chicago and its wealth of culinary offerings make it a unique college town in the Midwest . Home to Northwestern University , Chicago ’ s Big 10 team , brings visitors to this legitimate destination for gastronomes . It is easily accessible via car or the city ’ s famed elevated “ el ” train . Its most popular restaurants reflect both its urban and suburban qualities . Highlights include :
Terra & Vine , from former “ Check , Please !” host Alpana Singh , focuses on showcasing Mediterranean cuisine , specifically emphasizing its Italian influences . The restaurant benefits from Singh ’ s experience as a master sommelier , featuring an immaculately constructed wine list . ( terraandvine . com )
Edzo ’ s Burger Shop , a small shop without much curb appeal belies bright flavors inside . Locals love it for burgers made from hand-pattied beef , hand-cut fries , and shakes in flavors like spicy Mexican chocolate . ( edzos . com )
At Hewn , bakers mix the dough by hand , shape and place into bannetons , let it rise overnight and bake in the early morning . A dizzy array of pastries match the large selection of breads . ( hewnbread . com )
Boltwood menu highlights include grilled swordfish and extremely addictive crispy potatoes . Bartenders craft inventive cocktails . ( boltwoodevanston . com )
Blind Faith Cafe takes creative spins on traditional vegetarian including vegetable pot pie , spinach lasagna , and seitan bi bim bop with a broad selection of delicious vegan and glutenfree offerings . ( blindfaithcafe . com )
Peckish Pig , located right on Evanston ’ s border with Chicago , takes a unique spin on the brewpub concept . Offering approachable items as well as adventurous surprises , coupled with a dozen housebrewed beers . ( thepeckishpig . com )
Found Kitchen & Social House is a restaurant with a mission . Its rustic American dishes change with the market and season and are served in a relaxed , creative atmosphere inspired by 1920 ’ s Bohemian Paris . ( foundkitchen . com )