Chicago | Is Two-Star Oriole Really Worth It? 🍽️✨

Chicago's two-star spots definitely have better ambiance than NYC or SF! 🏙️ The flow from bar to kitchen to table is so well-designed—it adds a fun, interactive element to the whole dining experience. Every dish was good, but nothing blew my mind. No major seasoning fails, but no "I'll dream about this forever" moments either. (For reference, Ever and Smyth—similar-tier spots—both had dishes I straight-up disliked.) Verdict: A safe choice for business dinners or dates. No disasters, just consistently decent (70-80/100). Not as legendary as Xiaohongshu claims, though. Standout: The opening trio of amuse-bouches—brilliant Japanese fusion that set way too high expectations. 🍣🔥 Overhyped: The internet-famous foie gras tart? Meh. 🦢 Confusing Start: First table course was a weirdly salty veggie purée—craved some carbs to balance it out. 🥬🧂 Solid: The shrimp, eel, and wagyu were delicious (worthy of two stars), but not unforgettable. Felt like an upscale version of Commis in the Bay. 🍤🐟🥩 Surprise Win: The much-criticized dessert? Loved it. 🍫❤️ Tech Breakdown: Ambiance Ranking: Ever ＞ Oriole ＞ Moody Tongue (lost star) = Smyth (now 3⭐) Crowd-Pleasing Flavors: Oriole > Moody Tongue > Ever > Smyth My Personal Ranking: Oriole = Smyth ＞ Ever ＞ Moody Tongue Final Thought: Good, not god-tier. Bring your boss, not your foodie soulmate. 🤷‍♀️🍷 #ChicagoEats #MichelinGuide #FineDining #ChicagoFoodie #DateNight