Sometimes you need to indulge, and while we might be biased, we think there’s no better place to treat yourself than in Chicago. But what does decadence mean to you? It is an extra-large helping of something sweet or maybe something brimming with cheese? Is it something on the carnivorous side or is it something heady that you can only get from the bar? No matter what that luxe item is, you can always find it in Chicago, and we’ve found three decadent creations that grant instant gratification.
Saganaki, Meli Cafe
With three locations throughout the city, the Meli Cafe is known for their brunch scene, but it’s something on their dinner menu that has caught our eye. The Saganaki is served exclusively at the South Loop location and it rivals that of which we’ve tried in Greece. The sumptuous fried Graviera cheese is served on a warm pan with hot lemon on the side — it’s a cheese lovers dream. The welcoming staff and cozy space make us happy this dish is only a cab ride away.
500 South Dearborn Street, Chicago, IL 60605
Bourbon Blueberry Pie, Iguana Cafe
Located in River West, the Iguana Cafe is a hidden gem. This European style eatery is bright and airy by day and dimly lit and trendy by night. It’s the only place in the city currently serving bourbon blueberry pie (yes, you read that correctly). This Marker’s Mark based cocktail is made with fresh lime juice, mint, ginger beer and blueberry liquor. Maybe next Thanksgiving we’ll skip the traditional pumpkin pie and just show up with cocktails in tow. Grandma wouldn’t mind, right?
517-19 North Halsted Street, Chicago, IL 60622
Nodino, Gioco
A former hangout of Al Capone’s, Gioco is a warm and rustic restaurant that boasts rich wood floors and exposed brick walls. The moment you walk in you feel like you’ve been transported back in time to somewhere in Italy. The Nodino features a bone-in grilled veal chop that is roasted for four hours in a red wine and chicken stock demi glace. It is tender, juicy and deliciously smokey. The luscious meat sits on grilled asparagus that is fresh and well seasoned.
1312 South Wabash Avenue, Chicago, IL 60605
This article was written by Team Chic & guest writer Christian Cook.
Featured photo by D’Marge
