Esmé
Michael Damato · 708 Google reviewsEsmé — clean, consistent bar & grill in Old Town. Modern space that photographs well but eats even better. If you drink, start at the bar. Zaila V: "Rich, creamy, with the right balance of savory and sweet" [$$$$]
What 350 diners keep saying
What 350 diners keep saying
verbatim, from Google
“I'm not sure where to even start with this review. This is a Michelin restaurant, absolutely an incredible experience, all of the courses were so creative! If you have never tried a Michelin rated restaurant, this would be a must!”
“Went here for dinner during Chicago restaurant week, and it was amazing!”
“Went during restaurant week (4 courses), had a fabulous time! The food was delicious. Small portions, but by the end we were still full. During my visit, I was in a full leg brace and on crutches. There was ample space inside - the tables are spaced far apart, much walking room (easily enough for multiple wheelchairs), and the staff were very eager to help. Truly the perfect location for a first date night post-surgery!!”
“Amazing experience. Service and food were so good. The vibe of the restaurant is really cool. Everything was beautiful and delicious.”
“Esmé offers an incredible and unique experience of dining in an art gallery. The dishes themselves were beautiful, with creative combinations of flavors and perfect preparation. Between the fun and personable staff, great ambiance, and delicious meal, I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a nicer dinner at a fair price point.”
“Great tasting menu at restaurant week. Their tiramisu came with a little edible drawing of the restaurant”
“Splendid experience! Love the concept, which is executed well throughout the entire experience. Enjoyed the design of the space. Noise level was lower and perfect. It was nice to have something enjoyable in the background that didn't even remotely interfere with our conversation. Drinks were original, with combinations I wouldn't have considered, and really good. I brought my partner here for his birthday and they were quite considerate in the way they addressed it with him. They even brought me something sweet as well, so as to be sure I had something to enjoy with him. Service was fantastic overall, and our waiter was an absolute delight. The best part though, was how delicious the food was. We are vegan, but did not miss out on flavor in any fashion. It takes a little more consideration and talent to make food tasty without animal products. They knocked it out of the park! We went during resturaunt week, but we will absolutely be returning to experience their full vegan tasting menu. There are not many places in Chicago that are Michelin starred that will accommodate a vegan tasting menu, which is quite unfortunate. We are so excited that Esmé is not only willing to do so, but does it delectably, and crafts an all around titillating experience for all the senses! They certainly deserve their star, and we cannot wait to return.”
“WOW! What an incredible experience at Esmé. From the moment I walked in I knew this was going to be a special night. Chris, the house manager, made me feel special and welcome right off the bat. The attentiveness of the entire staff was wonderful and the food was truly unmatched. From the first course all the way to the last took us on an amazing journey. Gustavo, the head chef, really knows what he is doing in the kitchen. The thoughtfulness that was put not only into the food but the presentations brought it to another level. With the added layer of the featured artist, Lefty, it brought a unique touch to the plating and the environment. The multiple courses and wine pairings were perfectly timed and never felt rushed or delayed. It was another aspect of the night that made us truly enjoy the experience. This ENTIRE NIGHT was magical! One that I continuously talk about with my friends and one that I will remember for a long time. Go visit Esmé! You won't be dissapointed. 🙂”
“Had the tasting menu tonight and it was the best meal I have ever had. The King Crab was phenomenal, the corn/fish course was incredibly tasty, and cheese course with honey comb was a great ender. Highly recommend the drink pairings. I did the non-alcoholic version, and each drink truly complemented the course. Jake and Natalie were very attentive as servers, always staying on top of our table. They change menus a few times a year so will be back for sure.”
“If you are in the chicago area and are looking for an evening full of flavor, I highly recommend Esme. They switch their menu and coordinated artist on a quarterly basis and i honestly cannot wait to come again. While i have enjoyed my weekend in Chicago, Esme has been a highlight and will have me coming back to the city routinely. Full of color, flavor and texture, they truly understand a "food experience". The caviar add on is a must, with the sweet potato and seaweed ice cream! Just trust them and eat it. Don't hesitate to speak with Natalie about the wines, she knows what she is talking about and is full of recommendations. I thoroughly enjoyed my evening at Esme! It is definitely something to experience, and not on a one time basis!”
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