Traveling Table: Chicago

Four adventurous new spots in the Windy City

Chicago's already one of the country's top dining destinations, but these four new spots are setting the bar even higher.

Graham Elliot Chef Graham Elliot Bowles gets playful with four-star cuisine at his new spot inside a 19th-century warehouse. His whimsical creations, like a Pabst Blue Ribbon-simmered risotto with bacon and Cheez-It cracker crumbs (pictured), are served accompanied by a soundtrack that includes tunes performed by Bowles himself. Try: Deconstructed Caesar salad with Parmesan fluff and brioche Twinkies ($9). 217 W. Huron St.; 312-624-9975 or grahamelliot.com (Reserve a table)

The Publican This shrine to craft brews and heirloom pork comes from the team behind Blackbird and Avec restaurants. The ever-changing menu might feature beef heart dressed with marrow sauce and boudin blanc-topped potato pancakes, all complemented by a selection of more than 100 beers. Try: The charcuterie plate of duck and foie gras terrine, Morteau sausage, pork pie and head cheese ($19). 837 W. Fulton Market; 312-733-9555 or thepublicanrestaurant.com (Reserve a table)

Urban Belly Tucked next to an Avondale Laundromat is Bill Kim's brilliant ode to noodles and dumplings. Kim taps his Korean roots to expertly blend Asian flavors in satisfying noodle dishes like the Urban Belly, tangles of ramen drowned in broth with pork belly and shiitake mushrooms. The communal wood tables, BYOB policy and affordable prices (every dish is under $13) have made it a favorite hangout for Chicago chefs and foodies. Try: Hominy, kimchi and spicy pork-belly rice noodles ($12). 3053 N. California Ave.; 773-583-0500 or urbanbellychicago.com

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