Ji Suk Yi

Braised beef with warm soy jus, served at Perilla, is made with shishito peppers, garlic, and a poached egg.

Ji’s Pick: Perilla: Korean American Fare

I do dread when I’m asked what my favorite Korean restaurant is. But if I had to really choose a great place for Korean, I would recommend Perilla: Korean American Fare.

By Ji Suk Yi

Jerk-seasoned shrimp, pineapple salsa, and pina colada crema served on a bed of fresh pomme frites, made at Friistyle.

Neighborhood Eats

Friistyle perfects Chicago version of European-style pommes frites

The Bronzeville fast-casual spot — pronounced “free-style,” not “fry-style” — is the brainchild of entrepreneur Corey Gilkey, who after traveling to Belgium and the Netherlands realized there were no local restaurants specializing in the hot potato snack.

By Ji Suk Yi

Movies and TV

Tamron Hall hopes to bring ‘unique perspective’ to daytime talk

The former Chicago news anchor bounces back from an embarrassing setback at NBC’s ‘Today’ to launch a show built on authenticity.

By Ji Suk Yi

The jerk chicken burger, served at Dunning’s Market, is made with a chicken patty seasoned with Jamaican jerk, topped with raspberry chipotle sauce, lettuce, tomato, onion and served on a pretzel roll.

Neighborhood Eats

Once on the verge of closing, Dunning’s Market continues legacy as one-stop diner and catering hub

Maureen Mader was ready to close the six-decade old Homewood-based business over a year ago, but when she stumbled upon an empty storefront in Flossmoor, she was reinspired. “I love it all over again,” she said.

By Ji Suk Yi

Breakfast hash bowl served at Smack Dab restaurant.

Neighborhood Eats

Smack Dab stirs lip-smacking biscuits, heart-healthy meals with social justice

Twice a month, Smack Dab in Rogers Park hosts community dinners, where all are welcome to eat regardless of their ability to pay.

By Ji Suk Yi

Al pastor tacos made at Los Takitos Taco Shop

Neighborhood Eats

Los Takitos Taco Shop combines staple Mexican favorites with Lebanese flavor

Sanaa Yazbek and Alma Hernandez opened their taco shop in northwest suburban Palatine near the close of 2017. Less than two years later the Taco Shop ranks as #62 on Yelp’s 2019 list for must-try restaurants.

By Ji Suk Yi

Cherry and apple pies made at Happy Apple Pie Shop.

Neighborhood Eats

Happy Apple Pie Shop provides dessert, food for thought

Staff at the bakery, at 226 Harrison St. in Oak Park, includes those who have intellectual and developmental disabilities.

By Ji Suk Yi

The creole seafood boil, served at Hidden Manna Cafe, is made with crab legs, shrimp, craw fish, spicy chicken andouille sausage with potatoes and corn on the cob. Boiled in cajun seasonings and served with drawn butter.

Neighborhood Eats

Southern-style sustenance no secret at Matteson’s Hidden Manna Cafe

Patrons flock to sample head Chef Victor Jaimes’ from-scratch menu, heavily based on recipes passed down by the co-owner’s New Orleans-raised grandmother.

By Ji Suk Yi

Savory Pierogis served at Ewa’s Pierogi in Glenview.

Neighborhood Eats

Ewa’s Pierogi enchants with Eastern European fare

Among other staples, Ewa’s Pierogi carries five flavors of its namesake dish — meat [beef and pork mixture], mushroom, potato and cheese, spinach, mozzarella cheese and sauerkraut.

By Ji Suk Yi