Even though Barack Obama and Michelle Obama are headed to the White House, Chicago will remain their home sweet home. And, like all of us, they enjoy eating out here, too. Are your favorite Chicago restaurants on this list of Obama favorites?
1. Spiaggia
Jennifer Roche
This upscale restaurant, which is located at the head of the Magnificent Mile, was the Obama restaurant pick the Saturday night after Barack Obama won his bid to become President of the United States. Not a surprise they chose it as this elegant mainstay has hosted many couples' celebrations over the years.
980 North Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL. (312)280-2750. Reservations required.
980 North Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL. (312)280-2750. Reservations required.
2. Topolobampo
Jennifer Roche
The Obamas understandably name Rick Bayless's upscale, Mexican-inspired Topolobampo as one of their Chicago faves. I'm guessing they also appreciate Bayless's Frontera Grill, which is located right next door. It's the more relaxed version and just as delicious.
The address and phone number for both restaurants are the same. 445 N. Clark Street, Chicago, IL. (312)661-1434.
The address and phone number for both restaurants are the same. 445 N. Clark Street, Chicago, IL. (312)661-1434.
3. MacArthur's
This popular soul food mecca on the city's far west side got a mention in Barack Obama's "Audacity of Hope" as one of his favorite restaurants in the city. Word is he loves their turkey legs and dressing.5412 West Madison Street, Chicago, IL. (773)261-2316.
4. R.J. Grunts
Jennifer Roche
The Obamas enjoy one of the most notable restaurants in Chicago when they go to this Lincoln Park corner eatery. It opened in 1970 and launched not only the salad bar concept but also Lettuce Entertain You, a privately-held, wildly successful Chicago restaurant group.
R.J. Grunts' casual atmosphere means it's a great place to bring kids, but I think it works best for those who are out of high chairs and strollers. The dining room is a bit cramped, so it doesn't accommodate either particularly well. This is too bad as it's within easy walking distance of the Lincoln Park Zoo. No doubt Malia and Sasha give R.J. Grunt's a thumbs up, too.
2056 N. Lincoln Park West, Chicago, IL. (773) 929-5363.
R.J. Grunts' casual atmosphere means it's a great place to bring kids, but I think it works best for those who are out of high chairs and strollers. The dining room is a bit cramped, so it doesn't accommodate either particularly well. This is too bad as it's within easy walking distance of the Lincoln Park Zoo. No doubt Malia and Sasha give R.J. Grunt's a thumbs up, too.
2056 N. Lincoln Park West, Chicago, IL. (773) 929-5363.
5. Sepia
Jennifer Roche
The restaurant draws its name from the print shop that was housed there almost a century ago. Perhaps Michelle stumbled upon it one day after shopping at Maria Pinto, which is located right next door.
123 N. Jefferson Street, Chicago, IL. (312)441-1920.
123 N. Jefferson Street, Chicago, IL. (312)441-1920.
6. Valois Diner
This classic Chicago diner, which is located in Hyde Park, serves what is said to be one of Barack Obama's favorite breakfasts. The morning after he won his bid for President of the United States, Valois celebrated by giving away breakfast for free. The beloved diner is also known for its promo line 'See Your Food.'1518 East 53rd Street, Chicago, IL. (773)667-0647.
7. Dixie Kitchen
When Barack Obama was an Illinois State Senator he appeared on the local PBS TV station's popular "Check, Please!" program to talk about this spot. Obama reported, "The prices are right and the portions are good."- In Hyde Park: 5225 South Harper Avenue, Chicago, IL in the Harper Court Complex(773)363-4943
- In Evanston, IL: 825 Church Street, (847) 733-9324
- In Lansing, Il: 2352 East 172nd Street, (708) 474-1378