Found And Ward Eight - An Evening In Evanston

Classic fried chicken was the impetus for our last visit to Evanston.

This time, we went to investigate the city's most recent additions; they're well worth the trip.

Found: Antiques and salvaged furniture are scattered throughout this stylishly appointed restaurant from owner Amy Morton and chef Nicole Penderson, formerly of C-House. The menu, like the design, is eclectic and welcoming. Load the table with harissa-coated roasted root vegetables ($8), lamb meatballs with chimichurri and yogurt ($12), and a salad of raw kale and Swiss chard with pickled chard stems and cranberries ($9).

Honey-glazed, twice-fried chicken wings ($11) are sticky and satisfying–verging on cloying, but hard to resist. When it's time for a proper dessert, don't miss Turkish-coffee gelato drizzled with salty, nutty brown-butter caramel ($5).

Ward Eight: Chicago's loss is Evanston's gain with this new cocktail bar from former employees of Andersonville's now-closed In Fine Spirits. Local spirits abound, including those from nearby distilleries Few and Koval. Try Koval's chrysanthemum-honey liqueur stirred with Lillet, Benedictine and absinthe, or a classic Elk's Own ($12), made with whiskey and port. Both pair nicely with a simple spread of charcuterie or cheese ($15) and condiments from consulting chef Marianne Sundquist.