The culinary world is abuzz as the James Beard Foundation unveils its prestigious nominees for 2024, highlighting the best of the best in the vibrant dining scene of Chicagoland. 

From innovative Indian cuisine to contemporary American fare, these eight nominees promise an unforgettable culinary journey for food enthusiasts. Let's dive into eight diners that await your visitation:

1. The Coach House by Zubair Mohajir

Nestled in the bustling culinary landscape of Chicago, The Coach House stands out as a beacon of culinary innovation and excellence. Led by Chef Zubair Mohajir, a two-time James Beard Award nominee, this esteemed establishment offers a Tasting Menu experience that promises to tantalize the taste buds and ignite the senses.

At the heart of The Coach House's culinary philosophy is a seamless fusion of South Indian flavours with modern twists, creating a bold and innovative dining experience rooted in tradition. Each dish on the tasting menu is meticulously crafted to showcase the depth and complexity of South Indian cuisine while also incorporating contemporary techniques and ingredients to elevate the dining experience to new heights.

Address: 1742 W Division St, Chicago, IL 60622, United States

Book your next reservation here.

2. Duck Sel

Duck Sel offers a culinary journey like no other, where diners are invited to embark on a whimsical encounter with contemporary American cuisine crafted by the acclaimed Michelin-starred chef Donald Young. Renowned for his innovative approach and Midwest-inspired dishes, Chef Young brings a fresh perspective, creating an unforgettable dining experience that pushes the boundaries of flavour and creativity.

At Duck Sel, guests can expect to indulge in a 12-course tasting menu that showcases Chef Young's mastery of culinary techniques and his commitment to using the finest seasonal ingredients. 

One of the hallmarks of Chef Young's cuisine is his ability to marry classical techniques with avant-garde flair, resulting in dishes that are both familiar and unexpected. From playful reinterpretations of classic American dishes to bold experiments with texture, every course at Duck Sel is a testament to Chef Young's culinary prowess and dedication to pushing gastronomic innovation's boundaries.

Duck Sel offers private culinary experiences at your home, so please book your inquiry at the bottom of this page.

3. Smyth

At Smyth, the menu is more than just a list of dishes; it reflects Chef John and Karen Shields' culinary philosophy and their dedication to craftsmanship. With a focus on quality, creativity, and innovation, the menu at Smyth evolves daily, allowing diners to embark on a culinary adventure that is always fresh, exciting, and full of surprises.

One of the hallmarks of Smyth's dining experience is its commitment to showcasing the best seasonal ingredients. Chef John and Karen Shields work closely with local farmers, purveyors, and artisans to source the freshest and most flavorful ingredients available, ensuring that each dish celebrates the season and nature's bounty.

From delicate seafood and tender meats to vibrant vegetables and herbs, every ingredient at Smyth is treated with the utmost respect and care, allowing its natural taste to shine through in every bite. Whether it's a perfectly seared scallop, a succulent piece of roasted lamb, or a vibrant salad bursting with colour, each dish at Smyth tells a story of craftsmanship, passion, and a deep appreciation for the culinary arts.

Address: 177 N Ada St #101, Chicago, IL 60607, United States

Book your reservation here. 

4. Esmé

A deep appreciation for creativity and collaboration is at the heart of Esmé's dining philosophy. Chef Jenner and Katrina Bravo collaborate closely with local artists, creatives, and luminaries to craft a tasting menu experience that transcends the boundaries of traditional dining. Each quarter, Esmé unveils a new menu inspired by the works of these artists, resulting in a dining experience that is as visually stunning as it is delicious.

The menu at Esmé changes every quarter, reflecting the shifting seasons and the evolving landscape of Chicago's vibrant creative culture. From innovative dishes that pay homage to the city's rich culinary heritage to playful interpretations of classic favourites, each course is a work of art in its own right, meticulously crafted to surprise and delight the senses.

Address: 2200 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614, United States

Book your reservation here. 

5. INDIENNE

INDIENNE is not just a restaurant; it's a culinary journey curated by Chef Sujan Sarkar to invite diners to experience Progressive Indian Fine Dining like never before. With a bold vision and a passion for pushing the boundaries of Indian cuisine, Chef Sarkar has created a culinary hotspot that celebrates the limitless potential of Indian flavours and techniques.

One of the hallmarks of Chef Sarkar's culinary approach is his ability to seamlessly blend traditional Indian ingredients and techniques with contemporary influences from around the world. Whether it's a classic dish like butter chicken reinvented with molecular gastronomy techniques or a playful reinterpretation of street food favourites, every dish at INDIENNE is a testament to Chef Sarkar's creativity and skill.

Address: 217 W Huron St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States

Book your next dinner experience here. 

6. Boonie's Filipino Restaurant

Boonie's Filipino Restaurant is a culinary gem in Chicago, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere where Filipino cuisine traditions take center stage. With a commitment to showcasing the vibrant and diverse cuisine of the Philippines, Boonie’s invites diners to embark on a flavorful journey that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of the Filipino culture.

What sets Boonie's apart is not just its delicious food, but also its cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're dining with family, friends, or solo, Boonie's promises a delightful dining experience that feels like a home away from home. The restaurant's warm and inviting ambiance, combined with its focus on community, creates a sense of belonging and camaraderie that makes every visit to Boonie's a memorable one.

Address: 4337 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60618, United States

Book a reservation here. 

7. Daisies

Daisies is a culinary oasis in Chicago, where Chef Joe Frillman invites diners to indulge in the comforting flavors of Midwest Italian cuisine. At the heart of Daisies' menu are house-made pastas and seasonal ingredients sourced directly from Chef Frillman's family farm, ensuring every dish celebrates freshness and local bounty.

One of the highlights of dining at Daisies is the house-made pasta crafted with care and precision using traditional Italian techniques. From pillowy gnocchi to delicate ravioli, each pasta dish at Daisies is a labour of love, showcasing the perfect balance of texture, flavour, and craftsmanship.

In addition to pasta, Daisies also offers a variety of Italian-inspired fare with a local twist. From hearty salads and antipasti to comforting mains and decadent desserts, every dish on the menu is thoughtfully curated to highlight the season and the unique character of the Midwest.

Chef Frillman's family farm provides much of the produce used in the restaurant, ensuring that every dish is made with the freshest and most flavorful ingredients available. Additionally, Daisies actively supports local farmers and artisans, forging meaningful connections within the community and creating an authentic and wholesome dining experience.

Address: 2375 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, United States

Book your next Italian dining experience here. 

8. Atelier Restaurant

Atelier is a culinary destination focused on showcasing the best of the Midwest's bounty while incorporating international influences to create a familiar and innovative menu.

Chef Hunter's culinary philosophy revolves around the concept of Folk Cuisine, which celebrates the traditions and ingredients of the Midwest. Drawing inspiration from the region's best farms, Chef Hunter crafts menus highlighting the Midwest's seasonal bounty, showcasing the freshest produce, meats, and dairy products available.

Atelier’s ever-changing seasonal tasting menu reflects the ebb and flow of the Midwest's agricultural calendar. With each visit, guests can expect a new culinary journey rooted in local aromas and international influences. Chef Hunter draws inspiration from his travels and experiences to create delicious and thought-provoking dishes.

Address: 4835 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60625, United States

Book your next fine dining experience here. 

From tantalizing tasting menus to comforting classics, these eight culinary gems represent Chicago's diverse and dynamic dining landscape. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or a curious diner, these James Beard nominees offer an opportunity to explore the rich tapestry of flavours that define Chicago's culinary scene.