Toguchi Travel Guide

Chicago is a place I've been to multiple times and each time I've had great experiences navigating the food culture (and shopping) of this fabulous city.  I received a list from Vicki, a good friend, and thought I would share here: Girl & the Goat - stephanie izard's restaurant, get the roasted pig face Avec - french with cool modern vibe, always packed, get the pork shoulder and bacon wrapped dates Publican - really good pork and shellfish dishes, communal seating Purple Pig - on the magnificent mile, mediteranean, small plates, charcuterie Xoco - one of Rick Bayless' restaurants, casual vibe, yummy sandwiches Bongo Room (in wicker park) - check out for brunch! Wildberry Pancakes & cafe - best brunch in chitown Portillo - for chicago style hot dogs Fat Rice - new, but heard great things, macau style cuisine Big Star - bar in wicker park, amazing cocktails and gauc.. where i used to hang out :)

Gramercy Tavern – elegant restaurant, New American.  My favorite place for special occasion Eleven Madison – elegant restaurant and always on top list of NY restaurants.   Pricey and for special occasion Katz’s Deli – pastrami sandwiches.  I have never been but Roger has and this is THE place to go for pastrami sandwich Grimaldi’s – favorite pizza joint, located in Brooklyn.  Most would say to go to Lombardi’s but Grimaldi’s is the real thing and very local Izakaya MEW – authentic Japanese izakaya.  I went here with some friends the last time I was in NYC and loved it.  Very authentic, located in midtown in the basement. Bo Ky Restaurant – located in Chinatown, their country duck is superb! I get this everytime I’m home.  Be wary though as this place is quite divvy (it is in Chinatown!) Joe Shanghai – it’s not as good as Din Tai Fong but it’s a staple in Chinatown and been around a long time.  Pretty decent Shanghainese food. Golde...