The name of L2O, a luxe Lincoln Parker (and Lettuce Entertain You production), is a riff on the chemical formula for water, which is appropriate since the pricey prix fixe–only menu revolves around seafood; chef Laurent Gras utilizes global artisanal ingredients in his seasonal shellfish, sashimi, ‘raw’, ‘warm’ and ‘main’ dishes, all served in an ultramodern setting of dark and light woods, frosted glass and space-age white seating; N.B. a secluded tatami room is in the works.

2300 N. Lincoln Park W., Chicago; 773-868-0002

See a Menu

Read Our Interview with Laurent Gras

The too-cool-for-school crowd may scoff that the once-stealth Meatpacking District has lost its achingly hip luster. But for fashionistas, the still-gritty MPD has become a must-shop destination, thanks to new stores like Yohji Yamamoto, Y-3 and more. And, despite the imminent demise of Florent, there are plenty of places to sip, snack, pose and/or shake your moneymaker. Here’s our short list (and a map) of stores, bars, restaurants and hotels.

Read More

After two years, the Windy City's ill-fated ban on the sale of foie gras has been repealed. The City Council, with Mayor Daley running the session, voted 37–6 last week to ditch the ban, the only one of its kind in the nation.

While the new move didn't make animal activists happy, it certainly pleased many local gourmands who have loudly bemoaned the city's ban (not to mention chef Doug Sohn, the only person actually fined for defying it)...

Read More