Alinea

For serious food lovers, a trip to Chicago isn’t complete without a visit to Alinea. For some, a trip to Chicago would be because of Alinea. Chef Grant Achatz’s culinary playground has earned three Michelin stars since opening in 2005, the first restaurant in town to do so. Once inside the sleek, no-tablecloths space, expect the unexpected—Achatz is known for defying all expectations, as evidenced by dishes that include “pearls” of spiced orange juice, balloons made of green apple and helium, and a dessert that uses the entire tabletop as an edible art canvas. Three different dining experiences (and price points) are on offer—the Salon Menu, the Gallery Menu, and the Kitchen Table—ensuring guests can find the option that works best for them. For a totally secluded, front-row seat to the magic, book the latter—it offers an unobstructed view of the kitchen.