Da Local Boy: Island Cuisine in the Loop and Highwood
Da Local Boy offers genuine Hawaiian flavors to Loop commuters looking for a quick culinary escape. The restaurant, first opened two years ago on the North Shore, brings island-inspired meals at its new Loop location, previously occupied by Saucy Porka, offering authentic Hawaiian platters like pork belly, huli huli chicken, and pulehu short ribs. The dishes carry the essence of Hawaiian mom-and-pop joints, bringing a taste of the islands to the city.
The menu reflects the rich fusion of indigenous Polynesian and immigrant food traditions from Asia, North America, and Europe. The OG Plate, priced at $19, is a generous serving of huli huli chicken and grilled pork belly, combined with rice and macaroni salad. The chicken is marinated for two days, ensuring a juicy and flavorful experience. The salad, using Hellmann’s mayo, adds a balanced creamy touch.
For poke enthusiasts, there’s a tuna poke bowl for $18, featuring simple ingredients and rich flavors, highlighted by Hawaiian red clay salt. To complete the meal, Hawaiian Sun juice or a pina colada-style Lava Flow drink are available, capturing the essence of island refreshments.
Da Local Boy’s journey from a food truck to two successful locations highlights a passion for authentic Hawaiian dining. The family-owned restaurants honor roots and culture, aiming to share the flavors of Hawaii with Chicagoland.
The Greggory: A Steakhouse with Family Charm
The Greggory, located in South Barrington, offers a welcoming environment for families and business diners alike. Known for its accommodating staff, it provides a comfortable dining atmosphere for families with young children and caters to a variety of dietary preferences, including halal. The restaurant aims for regular diners and families, making it a versatile dining destination.
At The Greggory, attention to detail is key. Their menu includes options like the 16-ounce wagyu strip, with carefully considered portions to prevent waste. The restaurant not only offers high-quality American steakhouse experience but also strives to maintain an inviting atmosphere across its expansive yet intimate space.
The Greggory stands out for ingredient-driven and open-fire cooking. Chef José Sosa, an alum of renowned Chicago establishments, brings a unique touch to the suburban dining scene. The restaurant impresses with its well-timed service and offerings like the truffle baked potato and the restaurant’s signature chocolate praline cake. Overall, The Greggory presents itself as both a detail-oriented and welcoming steakhouse.
The Radicle: Italian Inspiration in Logan Square
Located in the former Daisies spot on Milwaukee Avenue, The Radicle embraces seasonality and sustainability with a creative culinary twist. Influenced by Italy’s Adriatic coast, the menu features a mix of pizzas, raw bar options, and cocktails that cater to local tastes.
The restaurant, led by executive chef Joe Frillman, offers dishes like fritto misto, providing a playful seafood experience, and innovative dishes like the rhubarb pizza with guanciale and ricotta. The traditional supreme pizza appeals to those seeking classic flavors with a slight twist.
The Radicle connects to its sister restaurant, Daisies, through shared dessert offerings such as the rich chocolate slab pie. The establishment also focuses on creative cocktails using local ingredients, providing a community-centric atmosphere alongside its diverse food offerings. There is a clear emphasis on transparency with a service charge system, enhancing the dining experience for guests.