Chicago’s 5 Must Book restaurants for May

Balkan cuisine gets a well-deserved opportunity to shine at this River North newcomer transplanted from DC. An unlimited tasting experience of some 30 dishes has already earned fans for dishes like freshly baked pita and spreads, hearth-cooked beef kebabs, and flatbreads from the wood-burning oven. Brightly patterned wallpaper and mismatched light fixtures provide a playful backdrop to the bold flavors on the plates. Pro tip: Finish with rakia, the traditional Balkan fruit brandy.

Award-winning chef Sujan Sarkar introduces diners to his Indian roots at this newcomer focused on the country’s diverse regional cuisines. Having already proven his culinary prowess at Chicago’s MICHELIN-Starred Indienne, Sarkar skews more traditional at NADU. He brings you to Mumbai via irani keema (spiced minced lamb) or Delhi with dahi ballah (lentil dumplings). Add dramatic chandeliers, vibrant artwork, and intriguing cocktails, and it’s a trip like no other.

It’s not like this quietly elegant Japanese dining bar needed a James Beard finalist nod for Outstanding Bar to get diners’ attention, but that’s exactly what happened in April. Celebrated bartender Julia Momosé continues to impress at the West Loop’s Kumiko, where she heads up both the beverage and dining menus. Grab a spot at the wood-accented bar for next-level cocktails, rare spirits, and Japanese fried chicken, or reserve ahead for the seasonal tasting menu in the intimate dining room.

Come for the charming “Emily in Paris” vibe complete with green crystal chandeliers, an all-season streetside pergola, and colorful flowers overhead, and stay for the modern French American fare that’s seriously fun. Linger over Frenchified cocktails before moving on to raw oysters, caviar-accented chicken nuggets, and steak frites. Say cheese with the Instagram-friendly fondue service for two. A small but mighty happy hour is available Monday through Friday.

Gather with your fellow sports fans at this Wicker Park spot that punches way above its weight offering elevated versions of pub fare, potent cocktails, and some 200 beers. Whether at the bar, table, or outside patio, a multitude of flatscreens awaits with requests welcomed. Share a pizza crafted with housemade dough or chicken waffle bites before moving on to hearty burgers and creative salads. Go for the win and finish with a warm ice cream-topped skillet cookie.