Valhalla
ZipPicks Awards
Best Tasting Menus in Wicker Park & West Town
Best Chef's Table Restaurants in Wicker Park & West Town
Master Critic Review
Valhalla
8.6
Valhalla runs a modern American tasting menu with a strong chef’s counter feel, turning seasonal Midwestern ingredients into playful, technique-driven plates. The experience leans more energetic than hushed, with a progression that might move from seafood to rich meat courses and polished desserts. It’s a natural pick for diners who like ambitious food without stiff formality.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crab arroz caldo–inspired course, Scotch egg–inspired lamb dish, Seasonal composed dessert from the tasting progression
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: High-energy chef-driven tasting menu with creative, globally influenced plates.
Who should go: Diners who want ambitious food in a lively, modern room.
When to visit: Later weekend seatings for the most buzz and energy.
What to order: Full tasting, crab arroz caldo course, lamb scotch-egg riff.
Insider tip: Ask to sit near the action if you enjoy watching the kitchen plate courses.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in Wicker Park can be limited during peak hours; allow extra time or consider rideshare.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy — fashion-forward but not formal. Jeans are fine if styled up.
Noise level: Moderate to lively — you can hold a conversation, but the room has energy.
Weekend wait: Reservations are strongly recommended; walk-in availability is rare during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable — this is primarily a dinner experience.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Usually possible with advance notice; call ahead so the kitchen can adapt the tasting flow.
Vegan options: Very limited — this is not the best choice for strict vegan dining.
Gluten-free options: Often accommodated with substitutions if discussed in advance.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — it’s upscale and exciting without being stiff, making it great for an impressive but relaxed first date if you both enjoy tasting menus.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Unlikely on weekends. Your best shot is early weekday seatings or checking for last-minute cancellations.
Is it kid-friendly? Not really — the multi-course tasting format and length make it better suited for adults and special-occasion dining.
Best For
Better for: Guests who want ambitious tasting-menu cooking in a buzzy, social environment rather than a hushed fine-dining room.
Skip if: You prefer quiet white-tablecloth formality, highly traditional cuisine, or have strict vegan dining needs.