Avec
EatWest Loop#05 of 50

Avec

Chicago, Illinois

Photo: avec Restaurant

A tiny, loud, communal-table Mediterranean spot that's been one of the best restaurants in Chicago since 2003. The wood-oven is the engine — everything that comes out of it tastes like smoke and intention. The room is narrow, the seats are tight, and nobody cares because the food is that good. Paul Kahan's most soulful restaurant.

Insider tip

The chorizo-stuffed medjool dates. They've been on the menu since opening night, and if they ever remove them, the city will riot.

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