PRICE:
Frommer's Highly Recommended

Brasserie Jo showcases the casual side of chef Jean Joho, whose upscale Everest is one of the city's longtime gourmet destinations. The high-ceilinged dining room here is open and spacious (as compared to a cozy bistro); you'll feel as if you're dining in a bustling Art Deco Parisian cafe. Following in the tradition of the classic Alsatian brasserie (meaning "brewery"), Brasserie Jo makes a malty house brew, and diners are welcome for a quick stop-in snack with a glass of wine or a full five-course meal. Since the restaurant is open relatively late on weekends, it also makes a good stop for dessert (grab a seat at the pressed-metal bar). You can order a hearty Alsatian choucroute here, but the menu focuses more on casual French classics: Entrees are divided into seafood, steak, and a variety of bistro-style specialties (chicken coq au vin, pork tenderloin ratatouille, rack of lamb), along with tartes, the Alsatians' version of thin-crust pizza. One house specialty that's worth a try is the "shrimp bag," a phyllo pastry filled with a rich blend of shrimp, peas, and herb rice garnished with lobster sauce. Don't forget to save room for dessert: The delightfully decadent caramel-banana coupe is served in a tall glass, and just might be the perfect sundae. I also love the rich chocolate mousse, which is served tableside from a massive silver bowl, then topped with fresh cream and shaved chocolate -- just like in Paris.

Copyright: Excerpted from Frommer's Chicago 2009, (c) 2008, Wiley Publishing, Inc.

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