Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
HOT DOGS
The classic Chicago hot dog includes a frankfurter by Vienna
Beef (a local food processor and hallowed institution),
heaps of chopped onions and green relish, a slather of yel-
low mustard, pickle spears, fresh tomato wedges, a dash of
celery salt, and, for good measure, two or three “sport”
peppers, those thumb-shaped holy terrors that turn your
mouth into its own bonfire.
Chicago is home to many standout hot-dog spots includ-
ing
Gold Coast Dogs,
159 N. Wabash Ave., at Randolph
Street (
&
312/917-1677
), in the Loop just a block from
Michigan Avenue.
Fluky's,
in The Shops at North Bridge
mall, 520 N. Michigan Ave. (
&
312/245-0702
), is part of a
local chain that has been serving great hot dogs since the
Depression (Dan Aykroyd and Jay Leno are fans).
Portillo's,
100 W. Ontario St. (at Clark St.;
&
312/587-8930
), is another
local chain that specializes in hot dogs but also serves tasty
pastas and salads.
MODERATE
Le Colonial
FRENCH/VIETNAMESE Appropriately
enough for its tony Oak Street environs, Le Colonial has one of the
loveliest dining rooms in the city—and the second-floor lounge is a
sultry, seductive cocktail destination. An escapist's paradise, the
restaurant is a cleverly crafted re-creation of the civilized yet exotic
world of 1920s Saigon: bamboo shutters, rattan chairs, potted palms
and banana trees, fringed lampshades and ceiling fans, and evocative
period photography.
While the ambience certainly merits a visit, the flavorful cuisine is
a draw on its own. Start with the hearty oxtail soup or the light and
refreshing beef-and-watercress salad. Entrees include grilled lime-
glazed sea scallops with garlic noodle salad, sautéed jumbo shrimp in
curried coconut sauce, and roasted chicken with lemon-grass-and-lime
dipping sauce. Le Colonial offers outdoor seating in warm weather; try
to reserve one of the coveted, romantic mezzanine terrace tables.
Finds
