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Alinea Review
Read our Chicago restaurant reviews. Or post your own.
Alinea 
- Address: 1723 N. Halsted St., Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL | Map It
- Phone: 312/867-0110
- Price range: $$$$
- Cuisine: Cutting-Edge
- Location: Lincoln Park
Fodor's Review:
Believe the hype and book well in advance. Chicago's most exciting restaurant -- hidden in a bunker-like building on a residential block -- demands an adventurous spirit, an ample appetite, and a serious commitment of time and money. If you have four hours and $300 to spare, the 23-course tasting menu is the best way to experience young whiz Grant Achatz's stunning cutting-edge food. The gastronomic roller coaster (there's also a less pricey 12-course version) takes you on a journey through intriguing aromas, visuals, flavors and textures. Buttery duck with extruded mango puree arrives perched on a pillow that emits juniper-scented air. A black truffle-bon bon explodes in your mouth when you bite. Brown butter turned into powder accompanies a skate fish fillet. Though some dishes -- they range in size from one to four bites -- may look like science projects, there's nothing gimmicky about the endless procession of bold and elegant tastes. The hours fly by in the windowless bi-level dining room, aided by the effortless service and muted decor.
- Keep in mind: Reservations essential.
- Credit Cards: AE, D, DC, MC, V
- Closed: Closed Mon. and Tues. No lunch
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