Travel Reference
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The menu highlights curries and seafood entrees, from a traditional Japanese
tatsu curry to an Asian bouillabaisse, a savory mix of prawns, clams, mussels, and
scallops with noodles in a lobster-chile broth. You can also dig in to traditional
dishes such as pad thai or a modern version of kung pao chicken. And as befits
a restaurant that's big on style, there's a fine selection of (expensive) specialty
cocktails.
820 W. Randolph St. & 312/733-8880. www.redlight-chicago.com. Reservations recommended on weekends.
Main courses $9-$16 lunch, $17-$28 dinner. AE, DC, DISC, MC, V. Mon-Wed 11:30am-2pm and 5:30-10pm;
Thurs 11:30am-2pm and 5:30-11pm; Fri 11:30am-2pm and 5:30pm-midnight; Sat 5:30pm-midnight; Sun
5:30-10pm.
Sushi Wabi JAPANESE/SUSHI Artfully presented sushi and chic crowds
are the order of the day at Sushi Wabi, Randolph Street's Japanese jewel. The
minimal-chic decor is industrial and raw, and the lighting is dark and seduc-
tive—giving the restaurant the feel of a nightclub rather than a casual sushi bar
(weekend DJ music adds to the clubby feel).
Choose from dozens of nigiri sushi (fish and various eggs perched on vinegared
rice), maki (cone-shaped rolls of seafood, veggies, and rice in seaweed), a chef 's
selection sashimi plate, and a smattering of appetizers, entrees, and sides. Sushi
highlights include the sea-scallop roll with smelt roe, mayonnaise, avocado, and
sesame seeds; the dragon roll of shrimp tempura, eel, and avocado; and the spiky,
crunchy spider roll of soft-shell crab, smelt roe, mayonnaise, and pepper-vinegar
sauce. Simple entrees such as seared tuna, grilled salmon, teriyaki beef, and
sesame-crusted chicken breast will satisfy landlubbers who are accommodating
their sushi-loving companions. An intriguing side is the Japanese whipped potato
salad with ginger, cucumber, carrots, and scallions. Make a reservation or expect
quite a wait, even on school nights. A selection of teas in cast-iron pots and
chilled sakes is offered; or try a martini with a ginger-stuffed olive.
842 W. Randolph St. & 312/563-1224. www.sushiwabi.com. Reservations recommended. Main courses
$10-$24. AE, DC, DISC, MC, V. Mon-Fri 11:30am-2pm and 5pm-midnight; Sat 5pm-midnight; Sun 5-11pm.
Vivo NORTHERN ITALIAN Back in 1991, everyone thought the owners of
Vivo were crazy to locate this pioneering restaurant amid the gritty Randolph
Street wholesale vegetable markets. But charming, cellar-chic Vivo caught on from
the start. And today this pioneering restaurant is still a hip, not-too-flashy, and
never dull destination. Cleverly angled ceiling lights pinpoint each table with its
own glow, creating an intimacy that counteracts the loftlike feel of the room. The
best table in the house, perched in a converted elevator shaft, overlooks the whole
restaurant (every local celebrity from Oprah to Michael Jordan has sat here). Be
prepared to book at least a month in advance to snag this prime seating.
The menu selections might not dazzle, but they remain fairly consistent. Vivo
serves up a great carpaccio, tasty salads and pastas (try the black linguine with
crabmeat or the daily homemade ravioli selection), and simple meat and fish
entrees (grilled salmon or swordfish, a grilled filet mignon with Gorgonzola, and
roasted leek purée). Lunch selections include a nice Caprese salad of fresh moz-
zarella, tomatoes, and basil; a few panini; and pastas such as fusilli with chicken,
sun-dried tomatoes, and mozzarella. For dessert, try the wicked double-choco-
late cake with espresso sauce.
838 W. Randolph St. (1 block west of Halsted St.). & 312/733-3379. www.vivo-chicago.com. Main courses
$13-$26. AE, DC, MC, V. Mon-Wed 11:30am-2:30pm and 5-10:30pm; Thurs 11:30am-2:30pm and 5-11pm;
Fri 11:30am-2:30pm and 5pm-midnight; Sat 5pm-midnight; Sun 5-10pm.
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