I think people are especially talking about the Windy City's culinary scene, in large part due to the restaurant Alinea that has elevated the molecular gastronomy concept to the highest level of surprising, edible art.
I just enjoyed very memorable meals at two hot spots: First there was oysters, fish tacos and King crab legs at GT Fish and Oyster that's in a slick, modern space in the River North.
Then came a crispy chicken torta sandwich with black beans and tomatillo-avocado salsa, piping hot chips with homemade guacamole and cinammon churros with bitter chocolate at chef Rick Bayless' XOCO that celebrates Mexican street food.
Both were a real treat, very well worth the extra pounds.
For what to do in Chicago now, check out this destination story on Vogue.com -- my friend Erica and I found it incredibly on point!
