ZipPicks Awards
Best Tasting Menus in Lincoln Park
Master Critic Review
Esmé
8.6
Esmé is a mission-driven, Michelin-starred fine-dining room where Chef Jenner Tomaska’s tasting menus change quarterly around collaborations with artists and community partners. The experience leans gallery-like, with intricate plating, themed courses, and a pacing that encourages lingering over both the food and the ideas behind it.
Must-Try Dishes:
Flamin’ Hot Cheeto amuse with caramelized onion dip, En Papillote with prawns, chorizo, and beef tongue, Grilled Australian Wagyu Short Rib
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 9.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Art-driven tasting menus that rotate with collaborations and community themes.
Who should go: Guests who enjoy conceptual fine dining and detailed plating.
When to visit: Later seatings when the room feels most immersive and calm.
What to order: Current full tasting, signature snack, any featured meat course.
Insider tip: Expect menus to change seasonally—check the current collaboration theme.
Hours
MondayClosed
TuesdayClosed
Wednesday5pm - 9pm
Thursday5pm - 9pm
Friday5pm - 9pm
Saturday5pm - 9pm
Sunday5pm - 9pm