Tapis Rouge
The name is French for “red carpet,” but the tiny Ravinia strip-mall location couldn’t be less glam. Step inside, however, and you’ll be ready to hand Tapis Rouge an award for best set decoration. Owner (and French native) Christophe Chiavazza has created a gem that’s charming without all those boring bistro cliches–no subway tiles here. The menu offers more than enough for Francophiles and adventurers alike: In addition to staples such as Lyonnaise salad ($10) and steak frites ($19), you can go for yassa ($18), an African-style stew. Looking for some forbidden foie gras? (Chicago’s ban starts late August) Try the Tapis Rouge version ($20). 581 Roger Williams, Highland Park; 847-681-1401.
Tokyo 21
Kamehachi–which has been serving sushi since the days when eating raw fish was about as popular as eating raw chicken–seems to have finally realized sushi’s hip. Partnering with nightlife impresario Marc Bortz, the Chicago sushi institution is making a serious play for sashimi-seeking scenesters in the Weed Street space last occupied by the short-lived JP Chicago. The former French bistro interior has gone super-flashy. There’s even a pachinko machine. Dining room music aims for a downtown Tokyo lounge vibe, and the menu offers plenty to get you in the party mood. Try the spicy tuna martini ($14), a mixture of maguro, super white tuna, cilantro, scallions and spicy mayo served in a martini glass. Need a real drink? Sip a Tokyo Sunrise ($12) or an Asian mojito ($11). 901 W. Weed St., 312-337-2001.
Ritz Tango Cafe
This West Town cafe is a multitasker’s dream. Where else can you scarf down a spinach-and-cheese empanada ($2.50) or veal Milanese panini ($6.50), then take tango lessons ($10) and show off your newly learned moves afterwards? Even better: Ritz is temporarily BYOB, so you’ll keep more pesos in your pocket. 933 N. Ashland Ave., 773-235-2233.
Flourish Bakery Cafe
Owner Dan Fitzgerald kept us waiting fuh-ever (almost two years) for his new Edgewater bakery and cafe. Now that it’s open, Flourish appeals to commuters heading to and from the nearby Bryn Mawr “L” stop. The menu offers pastries ($2.25-$2.70) and breakfast turnovers, and moves into heartier fare like an Asian noodle salad ($5.25) and an Italian beef panini ($7.50). 1138 W. Byrn Mawr Ave., 773-271-2253.
More Top Picks Towel Warmers
Flatwater
Two new eateries on primo waterfront property are planning to make a splash this summer. Look for Flatwater–a globally influenced spot from Jay Vohra, the man behind Narcisse–which opened this weekend(321 N. Clark St., 312-644-0283). And one of the most anticipated new restaurants scheduled to launch midsummer in the River East Art Center on Ogden Slip (just west of Navy Pier) is De La Costa (465 E. Illinois St.).
Adesso
Franco Gianni–a partner in Rushmore, and popular sushi destinations Sushi Wabi and Tank–is involved with this corner Italian BYOB taking over Boystown’s old Einstein Bagels location (3332 N. Broadway). Come the planned September debut, look for a kid-friendly lunch environment, with plenty of sandwiches, salads and specialties like arancini (Sicilian-style fried risotto balls), and panzerotti (the central Italian version of a calzone). For dinner, options like braised short ribs with polenta will entice a neighborhood crowd. Look for weekend brunch, too.
Erba
We’ve been waiting for weeks to chow down on house-made pappardelle (wide noodles) with spicy sausage, sweet peppers and escarole, as well as roasted pork loin with baby artichokes and Italian salsa verde at this Lincoln Square newbie. Owners tell us they’re now hoping to open in July. 4520 N. Lincoln Ave.
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