CHI: Rating What You Ate

Justin Chen is cofounder of Menuism, a website where anyone can rate and review restaurants around town, right down to individual meals. Who better to talk to for restaurant picks?

You live in the South Loop; what restaurants are standouts in the neighborhood?
I really like a Thai restaurant called Ma & I. They just opened recently and have very flavorful food at reasonable prices. It's got a nice modern decor and it's BYOB — who doesn't love that?

Bongo Room is another restaurant that I think it is great. They creatively incorporate fruit and sweet elements into their breakfast and lunch dishes that make a trip there a refreshing diversion from the standard fare of others in the area. The decor is also very colorful and visually soothing.

Where do you like to go/what do you like to do for a night on the town?
I love exploring different restaurants around the city of course! On the weekends I always try to eat at one or two new restaurants and try explore all the different Chicago neighborhoods. Every now and then I'll grab drinks at a lounge/club in River North or go to the theatre. I saw Wicked recently and really enjoyed it.

What's your favorite restaurant?
Probably Sweets & Savories up in Lincoln Park. They have a great prix fixe menu, and you can also order a la carte from a normal menu. I recommend trying both ways. If you order off the menu, try the Kobe Beef Burger — it's phenomenal.

Ma & I
1234 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago | 312-663-1234

Bongo Room
1152 S. Wabash Ave., Chicago | 312-291-0100

Sweets & Savories
1534 W. Fullerton Ave., Chicago | 773-281-6778

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