Introduction to Chicagoland’s New Dining Spots
As the year progresses, the Chicago Tribune’s food team reviews three recently opened restaurants in the Chicagoland area. These reviews focus on Da Local Boy in The Loop and Highwood, The Greggory in South Barrington, and The Radicle in Logan Square, offering diverse culinary experiences.
Da Local Boy: Hawaiian Flavors in the Loop
Initially opened on the North Shore two years ago by Dianne Antonio and Nate Domingo, Da Local Boy now brings Hawaiian dishes to The Loop. Known for their hearty platters, such as pork belly, huli huli chicken, and pulehu short ribs, the restaurant creates an island-escape for commuters. Hawaiian cuisine incorporates indigenous Polynesian and immigrant food traditions from Asia, North America, and Europe, modernized by Domingo with fusion street foods.
“We kind of modernize it with our fusion mixed street foods,” Domingo said.
Popular dishes include the OG Plate, a dish of huli huli chicken and tender pork belly served with rice and macaroni salad, complemented by a two-day marinade. Tuna poke bowls are crafted traditionally with nori seasoning atop white rice, highlighting the taste of raw fish.
Patrons also enjoy beverages like Hawaiian Sun juice and Lava Flow drinks at the Highwood restaurant location.
Da Local Boy’s Journey
After losing his job during the COVID-19 pandemic, Domingo moved to the Great Lakes area with Antonio, where he began selling Hawaiian meals at a car wash. This effort combated homesickness by connecting him to local food traditions. Their first restaurant opened in Highwood in 2024, followed by the Loop location, reflecting mindful service for quick downtown lunches.
“That kind of helped with homesickness,” Domingo remarked.
The couple named their ventures partly after their son, Sky, symbolizing their Hawaiian and Filipino roots.
Contact Information for Da Local Boy
Address: 335 S. Franklin St., Chicago, IL – Phone:312-423-9957
Address: 320 Green Bay Road, Highwood, IL – Phone: 847-748-8715
Website: dalocalboychicago.toast.site
The Greggory: Fine Dining in South Barrington
Located in South Barrington, The Greggory is recognized for its family-friendly atmosphere, accommodating various dining needs. Skilled staff, like server Yanni Reglis, facilitate a stress-free experience, focusing on accessible service to all visitors.
“We want to be accessible on many levels,” Gregg Horan shared.
The menu features dishes such as wagyu halal steaks, offering variety beyond the typical steakhouse setup. Co-partners Horan, Bill Veremis, and chef/partner José Sosa aim to establish The Greggory as a suburban dining landmark.
Offering an Ingredient-Driven Experience
Sosa’s open-fire cooking style showcases dishes that excite diners, including Gruyere popover rolls and a crabmeat avocado appetizer. The restaurant’s space spans 10,000 square feet, surprising customers with its intimate ambiance. Desserts like chocolate praline cake complement the steakhouse themes.
Details and Contact Information for The Greggory
Address: 100 W. Higgins Road, Unit C1, South Barrington, IL – Phone: 847-551-5740
Website: thegreggory.com
The Radicle: Seasonal Cuisine in Logan Square
The Radicle, located in the old Daisies spot in Logan Square, offers seasonal and sustainable menu items. Chef Joe Frillman curates offerings inspired by Italy’s Adriatic coast cuisine, emphasizing local connections and community ambiance.
“Summertime on the patio with some raw oysters and a pizza that’s surprisingly light,” Frillman explained.
Popular starters include fritto misto and asparagus salad, followed by creative pizza options like rhubarb with guanciale. Desserts include chocolate slab pie, complemented by thoughtful service and a community focus.
Engaging with Sustainable Dining Practices
Frillman embraces using byproducts creatively, influenced by Italian culinary history. Cocktails like Scoop of Blue Moon feature innovative flavors, with the restaurant encouraging community interaction.
Details and Contact Information for The Radicle
Address: 2523 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, IL – Phone: 312-488-4069
Website: radiclechicago.com
A 20% service charge is added to dine-in checks, noted transparently for customers.