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Cutting-edge décor, creative food, pedigreed chef, and see-and-be-seen ambience combined with A-list clientele gives these Best Trendy Tables the elusive “it” quality that has the in-crowd fighting for reservations.
The Draw: Beer, beer, and more beer. In addition to the more than 100 ales, lagers, and stouts (many of them Belgian rarities), chef Paul Kahan keeps carnivores wrapped around his finger with a menu consisting of pork, pork, and more pork. The Scene: The wide-open interior recalls a European beer hall—and it’s about as clamorous as one. Casually dressed hipsters elbow around high-top tables as they wait for a seat at one of the communal tables, or the hottest seats in the house, alcove-like booths, each blocked off by private doors. Hot Tip: Reservations are accepted for Sundays only, when a family-style pork dinner is the main attraction.
Tocco
1266 N. Milwaukee Ave., Wicker Park, 773-687-8895 toccochicago.com
The Draw: Talking up the impeccable, wood-fired pizzas here doesn’t do this Italian hot spot justice; you also have to take in the dining room’s space-age décor—hot pink walls, curvaceous white chairs, cylindrical bar sculptures—to really appreciate owner Bruno Abate's artful concept. The Scene: Behind the nondescript, windowless façade, relaxed couples and groups park their Prada at the bar for fruity martinis. The best place to enjoy simply prepared house specialties like fried gnocchi or ragu-topped polenta? The outdoor patio that stretches the length of the place. Hot Tip: A communal table for 20 puts single diners at ease, but it can also be reserved for large parties.
Sunda
110 W. Illinois St., River North, 312-644-0500 sundachicago.com
The Draw: Chef Rodelio Aglibot enjoys a growing following, due to his stint manning LA’s sushi haven, Koi. He continues his creative streak with unlikely but delicious combinations such as unagi abed slices of caramelized watermelon or pork shank confit under garlic-foie gras gravy. The Scene: The always-happening bar teems with long-legged night owls tossing back pear sakes and mai tais. Because one of the owners, Billy Dec, is buds with celebs David Schwimmer and Joey Slotnik, there’s a good chance you’ll spot them in the crowd. Hot Tip: Skip dessert and graze instead on the bevy of small-plate dishes (garlic-tossed “longevity noodles,” tempura-fried soft-shell crabs).
