Offbeat BYO Hideaway

Goosefoot

A low-key environment of maple-topped tables, gold-toned banquettes, and simple pressed wood décor set the scene for goosefoot, a discreet, 34-seat restaurant located off the main thoroughfare of Lincoln Square and helmed by chef Chris Nugent, formerly of critics’ favourite Les Nomades. With the creation of his 8- and 12- course prix fixe menus, Nugent carefully chooses ingredients based on what is seasonal and locally farmed. To that effect, his summer menu includes dishes like scallop over lobster and curry with liquorice root, arctic char with morels and peas, and steak with heirloom carrots and shallot jus.

It’s easy to see why goosefoot has earned it’s standing as one of the best new restaurants in Chicago – as befits the current zeitgeist, the food is consistently stellar while everything else is unpretentious, from the homey service to the BYO wine. And while Nugent reworks his classically French-trained magic behind kitchen doors, his wife Nina handles the front of house, greeting diners and helping with coats and farewells. The result is a charming experience that has those in the know feeling like they’re part of the Nugent family, but with only 34 coveted seats each night, you’ll need to book well ahead.