Chicago's Affordable Michelin-Starred Gem - Boka ππ½οΈ
An Introduction to American Cuisine This restaurant has been a beloved Chicago institution for years! While it may not hit you with bold, in-your-face flavors, Boka masters the art of harmonious ingredient pairings that deliver a smooth, comforting deliciousness that lingers. My absolute favorite was their beef tartare with asparagus - refreshing yet complex, leaving a lasting impression (though I'm not sure if it's still on the menu π). Every dish we tried was solid, no misses here! What made this experience special? At the time, I was pretty skeptical about raw foods, but their tartare completely won me over. And that little aromatherapy lamp? Such a thoughtful touch! (Fun fact: It's actually from one of my favorite candle brands π―οΈβ€οΈ) The vibe is quintessential American - relaxed and unpretentious, more like hanging out at a friend's place than a stuffy fine-dining spot. Perfect for casual gatherings and great conversation over good food, though maybe not the most romantic date night setting. Boka single-handedly changed my mind about American cuisine - it earned a permanent spot on my "Actually Good American Food" list! π Pro Tip: Their tasting menu is one of Chicago's best values for a Michelin-starred experience π« π₯ Hot Take: What's your favorite American dish that surprised you? π¬ Discussion: Team Tasting Menu or Γ La Carte? π Tag your foodie partner in crime! #ChicagoEats #MichelinStar #FoodieFinds #ChicagoFoodScene #BestOfChicago #ChicagoLife #HiddenGems #RestaurantRecs #USATravel #FoodLover