ZipPicks Awards
Best American in Bucktown & Logan Square
Best Tasting Menus in Bucktown & Logan Square
Best Chef's Table Restaurants in Bucktown & Logan Square
Master Critic Review
Class Act
8.9
This Bucktown tasting-menu restaurant seats guests at a single communal table for a three-hour progression that moves through multiple rooms and ends in the attached speakeasy, Nightcap. Chef Nicolai Mlodinow’s menu changes by theme—currently an “Evolution” journey through food history—pairing avant-garde technique with a dinner-party atmosphere.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bouquet (zucchini flower with parmesan mousse and honey), Blackened Seafood Course from the chef’s childhood-inspired menu, Dim Sum–Inspired Bite from the “Growing Up” or “Evolution” progression
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 9
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 9.4
Atmosphere: 9.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: A scripted, theme-driven tasting menu that feels like an interactive dinner party with a speakeasy finale.
Who should go: Fine-dining fans planning big, experiential nights out.
When to visit: Later seatings for the most energetic communal table and bar handoff.
What to order: Full tasting menu with beverage pairing—the experience is all or nothing.
Insider tip: Plan post-dinner time; guests are led straight into Nightcap for a reserved nightcap session.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in Bucktown is limited, especially on weekends; plan extra time or consider rideshare. No confirmed dedicated valet as of latest reports.
Dress code: Upscale smart-cocktail attire; jackets not required, but guests typically lean dressy.
Noise level: Lively and social due to the communal table format — conversation is possible but expect energetic room buzz.
Weekend wait: Reservation-only format; walk-ins are rarely accommodated and should expect to be turned away.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable — this is a dinner-only tasting experience with scheduled seatings.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Generally accommodated with advance notice; menu is scripted, so substitutions must be arranged prior to the visit.
Vegan options: Often limited — request in advance to confirm whether a parallel menu can be prepared for the current theme.
Gluten-free options: Typically accommodated with prior notice; some courses may be adapted but not all themes allow full substitution.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for a bold, milestone-style first date with someone who enjoys immersive dining and conversation with others; less ideal if you prefer a private, low-key setting due to the communal seating and three-hour format.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Unlikely — seating is limited to a single communal table and service is scripted by reservation. Book well in advance and notify the team of dietary needs ahead of time.
Is it kid-friendly? No — the long tasting format, communal seating, and cocktail-focused finale are designed for adults. Best for mature diners; generally not recommended for children.
Best For
Better for: Highly curated, narrative-style tasting menus with theatrical pacing and a built-in post-dinner speakeasy transition — ideal for celebrations and experiential fine dining.
Skip if: You prefer à la carte dining, shorter meals, quiet rooms, or highly flexible menus where last-minute dietary changes are necessary.