Esmé
Chicago
Consider booking a spot for Bar Esmé to enjoy the cocktails in a relaxed setting.
Located in Chicago's Lincoln Park neighborhood, Esmé offers a unique fine-dining experience that harmoniously fuses art and culture with its mission-driven approach. This Michelin-starred restaurant presents an ever-evolving tasting menu that transforms quarterly, thoughtfully inspired by the vibrant creative scene downtown. Each iteration of the menu is a collaborative effort between Chef Jenner Tomaska, his wife Katrina Bravo, and local artists, creating a thematic story woven into every element from dishes to music and handcrafted service pieces. With a strong commitment to philanthropy, Esmé integrates its culinary pursuits with efforts to support the local community.
In addition to its fine dining experience, Esmé features Bar Esmé, which provides a more relaxed atmosphere with a selection of world-class cocktails and an extensive wine list. This space offers a stylish environment for guests to unwind after a long day or to enjoy a sophisticated meet-up with friends. Whether part of the main restaurant or in the bar, visitors can expect an elevated experience in modern and creative culinary arts.
Reviews
Food was just mediocre. I liked some things more than others the “squab” was very chewy and tasted like I was eating the most stringy meat ever and I also didn’t know it was a pigeon I was only told when I asked what’s a squab “it taste like duck” Felt a little violating I would have never ate a pigeon in general not my style but I do love duck In my personal opinion very over priced not to be absolutely blown away. My sister in laws stomach has been upset since dinner
Esmé offers an incredible and unique experience of dining in an art gallery. The dishes themselves were beautiful, with creative combinations of flavors and perfect preparation. Between the fun and personable staff, great ambiance, and delicious meal, I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a nicer dinner at a fair price point.
Seeing other reviews as well of folks coming in for restaurant week. Unfortunately I just got food poisoning. Did the CRW tasting menu with a group of 6 and even though the food was tasty, the atmosphere and the service being excellent, the 4-5 stars for the food are now a one due to food poisoning. I can also pinpoint it to here because we just had it a few hours ago and fasted for this meal. It's sad because it was a great experience, but ultimately ruined as I sit here with abdominal pain, cramps, among other things. I highly encourage ownership to talk with the staff to fix this somehow so other guests don't go through this. All for supporting a great spot, especially in Chicago, but I can't in good faith recommend Esme if other people have also gotten sick along with myself shortly after visiting.
Had the tasting menu tonight and it was the best meal I have ever had. The King Crab was phenomenal, the corn/fish course was incredibly tasty, and cheese course with honey comb was a great ender. Highly recommend the drink pairings. I did the non-alcoholic version, and each drink truly complemented the course. Jake and Natalie were very attentive as servers, always staying on top of our table. They change menus a few times a year so will be back for sure.
It took us almost a year to get a reservation at this Michelin rated gem. You must prepay prior to dining. Eclectic mix of tasty pieces. More art meets food. Pricey, but the experience was top tier. The service was OUTSTANDING !!! 20/10. The featured artist Lefty is creative, and the chefs were outstanding. The food , inspired by the art is both creative and experimental. The drinks , a mix of alcoholic and non alcoholic were one of a kind !!! Just excellent!!! An open ended palate is suggested if you go to experience this restaurant. It felt like a museum. It was an early anniversary dinner for us. We were treated with the utmost care and invited to tour the Kitchen with the head chef Gustavo. Servers Chris, and Jake …Made our experience over the top, Literally treated like royalty. A one of a kind dining experience.
