French Onion Soup from Prime & Provisions
If we’re all honest, almost everyone loves cheese. Whether you like it hard, soft, crumbly, or even lactose-free, it’s hard to resist some cheesy goodness. That’s why we don’t need much pressure into celebrating National Cheese Lover’s Day tomorrow, January 20. However, if you need an extra push, we have some of our favorite cheesy choices to indulge in while you have an amazing excuse …
Bin 36
There is no better pairing with cheese than wine, so Bin 36 {161 North Jefferson Street, Chicago; 312.995.6560} is the perfect spot. They have a wide range of cheesy options, including Pimento Cheese Fritters with green tomato jam and Burrata on Toast, made with harissa braised spaghetti squash served on a housemade baguette, topped with a large chunk of creamy burrata. For those looking to expand their cheese knowledge, they also have five different cheese flights and more than 25 cheeses in-house, touting one of the largest selections in Chicago. Triple X is made with rich and creamy cheeses, while the BIN 36 Flight is a selection of six cheeses hand-picked by the pastry chef.
Geja’s Cafe
Cheesy can be sexy too! At Geja’s Cafe {340 West Armitage Avenue, Chicago; 773.281.9101} guests can find solace in the candlelit dining room, surrounded by the music of Flamenco and classical guitar, while sampling Swiss Gruyere cheese fondue, served with fresh breads and fruits for dipping. Geja’s Cafe’s crisp green salad, dressed with tangy Dijon vinaigrette, offers a counterpoint to the rich, warm cheese fondue appetizer. For hungry appetites, guests can cook their meal, choosing from offerings such as Australian Lobster Tail or Aged Beef Tenderloin in a pot of sizzling soybean oil or broth.
Bread & Wine
Pick your cheese, any cheese! Bread & Wine {3734 West Irving Park Road, Chicago; 773.866.5266} has been providing excellent customer service and local-focused menus for half a decade. The restaurant also offers a wide range of cheeses that can be a great afternoon snack, appetizer or even dessert for a group of friends. Guests can opt for sourdough or whole wheat bread with their cheese selections. The bistro also offers charcuterie options, including like Renard’s Morel & Leek Monterey Jack, Creamy Sexy Blue, and Whiskey Washed Munster, all sourced from Wisconsin farms.
Public House
Some people like to be in control of their cheese, and in that case, DineAmic Group’s spot Public House {400 North State Street, Chicago; 312.265.1240} should be your go to. Their Multiple Choice Mac N’ Cheese gives you all the options to top your meal, from short rib chili to roasted jalapeño to buffalo sauce and beyond, you can make your mac as crazy or as simple as you like.
Fremont
Served in a cast iron skillet, Fremont’s {15 West Illinois Street, Chicago; 312.874.7270} mac n’ cheese creation, the White Cheddar Mornay is the of the mother of all deliciousness. This cheesy dish includes garlic, beer, and Alpha’s Morning Sun (a fusion of Cheddar and Gruyere), complete with classic elbow pasta, all of which is broiled for a bubbly, crisp finish. This decadent and creamy favorite at Fremont is sure to bring comfort … any time of the year!
SPiN
It wouldn’t be a cheesy celebration without a few flatbreads! SPiN {344 North State Street, Chicago; 773.635.9999}, a ping pong club and bar, offers a variety of options to nosh on while you play a round or two with friends. Choose from Bacon & Blue with Granny Smith Apples and a balsamic glaze or the signature SPIN, made with a rustic ragout, pepperoni, aged cheddar and Ciliegine mozzarella, topped with chives and crushed red pepper. You can eat them while watching friends play ping pong in their stadium seats, then work off that cheese with a few games yourself!
Bar Siena
The pièce de résistance of any cheese feast has to be a perfect pizza. The melted goodness at Bar Siena {832 West Randolph Street, Chicago; 312.492.7775} is a must-eat. Chef Fabio Viviani has created a wide range of choices, from classics like Tomato & Heirloom Basil, to more creative ones like Burrata and Grilled Eggplant topped with basil. Get a few to share and bring the whole family together to celebrate cheese!
By Kaleigh Glaza | Online Editor
The post Chicago’s Cheesiest Choices appeared first on DiningOut Chicago.