Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for an excuse to enjoy a good meal, chef’s tables offer elevated, often personalized dining experiences that you’ll be hard-pressed to find as a regular guest. Here are four noteworthy experiences to try right now.
Dubbed the Underground Goat, the subterranean private dining room at Stephanie Izard’s acclaimed restaurant can accommodate up to 24 guests seated around one table and up to 26 guests seated around two smaller tables. The space, which doubles as a wine cellar, is cozy and lit with adjustable lighting, punctuated with rustic elements like exposed brick and beams, while a unique, family-style menu showcases 13 seasonally driven dishes that change based on what ingredients are readily available. Pricing available upon request. 809 W. Randolph St., 312-492-6262
Experience the energetic goings-on of chef Brian Jupiter’s open-air kitchen from the intimate vantage point of the chef’s table at this carnivore-friendly stop on Milwaukee Avenue. Guests are free to tailor the experience to their liking, and may opt to order from Frontier’s regular menu, gather several hungry friends and indulge in whole animal offerings, or make an advanced request for special tasting menu crafted around their tastes. 1072 N. Milwaukee Ave., 773-772-4322
River North’s destination for Peruvian fare recently launched Adventura Culinaria, a nine-course chef’s table experience centered around the three primary food regions of Peru: the Andean Highlands, the Amazon Jungle, and the coastline. The family-style meal crafted by chef Jesus Delgado is $80 per person, and can accommodate between six and 20 guests between two 10-person tables; optional beverage pairings clock in at an additional $50 per person. 118 W. Grand Ave., 312-222-9700
During the month of March, guests are welcome to reserve the chef’s table at this Central Europe-inspired resto for a customized dining experience. The table is available Sunday through Wednesday for parties of 6-8 at $75 per person. Upon reserving, chef Jimmy Papadopolous will personally call the guest in charge to gather necessary details about tastes, preferences, and dining restrictions, and will compose a one-of-a-kind menu tailored to that party. 11 W. Illinois St., 312-955-0439