From 3 Stars to 1 Star! A Full Chicago Michelin Tour (Part 1) 🍽️⭐️

This article reflects my personal opinions only. Many Michelin spots change menus seasonally, so dishes I loved may not be available next time, and prices can vary. I’ll try to stay objective — but taste is subjective, so judge for yourself! Alinea ⭐ Rating: Not recommended Review: I’ve eaten everything from street food to fine dining, but Alinea just didn’t work for me. Some dishes were too salty, too sour, or too bitter. Beyond stunning presentation, the flavors fell flat. I wondered if it was an off night — but after asking around, most shared the same view: style over substance. My landlord even said he had instant noodles after his meal 🍜. Unless you’re a die-hard fan or just want the ‘gram, I’d skip it. Sure, some love it — but if you don’t, that’s $300 down the drain. (Yes, the plating is gorgeous, though.) Moody Tongue ⭐ Rating: ★★★★★ Moody Tongue offers a bar menu (no reservation needed, affordable) and a dining room tasting menu. At the bar: huge beef tartare for $16 — generous portion with bread! (Though I didn’t love the flavor.) Must-tries: foie gras scallops & pork belly — delicious! Tasting menu: I’ve been three times — consistently excellent! Loved the black truffle donut — warm truffle oozes out when you bite in 😍. Their fish dishes also shine, with some Japanese influence. Great for Asian palates! Smyth ⭐ Rating: ★★★★☆ They kindly seated me even though I was an hour late — good first impression! One tea tasted oddly similar to Elske’s (same herb garden? 😆). A few dishes were too sour for me (I dislike sour notes), but otherwise near perfect. Generous caviar portions — like they’re giving it away! Even as someone who doesn’t usually like eel, theirs was flawless — I wanted seconds! The foie gras — if Moody’s wins on pairing, Smyth’s wins on texture: cool, soft, not greasy. #ChicagoEats #MichelinGuide #Alinea #MoodyTongue #Smyth #FineDining #FoodReview