Amy Finds Herself

Found Restaurant

When a restaurateur of Amy Morton’s calibre and pedigree (she’s the former owner of Mirador and Blue Room, and her father is iconic steakhouse proprietor Arnie Morton) announces plans to open a new Chicago eatery, it’s only natural both expectations and buzz would soar sky high. Though the gimlet eye of all Windy City critic-dom was fixed intently on her every move, Amy certainly hasn’t disappointed, with her thoroughly individual offering Found opening in early November to rave reviews from the media and the masses alike.

With vintage Parisian meets Kerouac Beat-chic looks and four spaces-within-a-space – dining hall, kitchen counter, library and map room – Found’s décor is a stylish, homely jumble of mismatched, actually ‘found’ furniture (like Chicago courthouse benches), old rugs and books, all set nostalgically amidst a Scottie McNiece-curated soundtrack. But while the look is inspired by days of yore, the tastes couldn't be fresher, with chef Nicole Pederson dishing up seasonal locavore-friendly menus featuring small plates like fried oyster tacos with tomatillo, flatbreads including braised beef short-rib and celery root, and hearty mains such as whole roasted fish with charred lemon and vegetable chips. To finish, try the pumpkin gelato sundae and a beverage from Jan Henrichsen’s locally-sourced drink list (including liquor from Chicago-based distillers Few Spirits), and see if you agree; although you’d hardly say she was ever lost, Amy’s definitely now Found.