This week's top dish from Eater Chicago, Curbed's restaurant, bar, and nightlife blog...
1) Logan Square & River North: In 2009, Esquire completely dissed Chicago for its best restaurants in America list. But not this year. The magazine gave nods to hot hipster gastropub Longman & Eagle and the sexy and sleek Epic. Two totally different spots, but great seeing Chicago back in the game.
2) Wicker Park: Even after rumors that Hot Doug's Doug Sohn consulted on the menu were quashed, we've still been waiting with bated breath for the opening of the European-inspired, Northwoods-themed Bangers & Lace (pictured). The Wicker Park pub will open within two weeks and we got a sneak peek inside the cool space—deer heads, taxidermy and all!
3) Uptown: Up until now, the fried chicken offerings on the North Side have been slim. But with the news that Harold's Chicken will land in Uptown, the finger-licking smack-talkin' has begun.
4) River North: When four restaurants just isn't enough for the Boka Restaurant Group, they go ahead and reveal the name of the fifth. GT Fish & Oysters should open in the former Tizi Melloul space in February with chef Giuseppe Tentori leading the kitchen. If you've eaten his food at Boka you know you're in for some good grub.