ZipPicks Awards
Best Fine Dining Restaurants in West Loop
Best Michelin Star Restaurants in West Loop
Best Tasting Menus in West Loop
Master Critic Review
Elske
8.7
Elske layers Danish and Midwestern influences into a focused tasting menu served in a clean-lined dining room and plant-framed courtyard off Randolph. Plates lean subtle and balanced rather than showy, with thoughtful pairings and a calm, intimate pace.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lamb tartare on toasted rye, Duck liver tart with salted ramp, Sunflower seed parfait with sour honey and licorice
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Scandinavian-influenced tasting menus in a minimalist room with courtyard.
Who should go: Couples wanting refined food without overly formal trappings.
When to visit: Warm-weather evenings to enjoy dessert and drinks on patio.
What to order: Tasting menu progression, lamb tartare, sunflower seed parfait dessert.
Insider tip: Reserve courtyard seating when booking; it fills quickly on weekends.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking can be limited in the West Loop, especially during dinner hours. Allow extra time or consider nearby paid garages.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy — think elevated but relaxed. Jackets and dresses fit in, but formalwear isn’t required.
Noise level: Low to moderate — the room is intentionally calm and conversations are easy without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: Reservations are strongly recommended; walk-ins are unlikely during peak times.
Weekday lunch: Lunch is not typically served — dinner is the primary service.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — the kitchen is thoughtful and can accommodate with advance notice.
Vegan options: Limited — some elements may be adaptable but expect advance communication with the restaurant.
Gluten-free options: Yes — many courses can be modified upon request, with careful ingredient attention.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — it’s intimate, calm, and feels special without being overly formal. Ideal if you want conversation-friendly dining with memorable food.
Can I get a table without a reservation? It’s possible on rare slower evenings, but generally unlikely. Book ahead — especially for weekends and patio seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly. The tasting-menu format and quiet atmosphere suit adults and older teens more than young children.
Best For
Better for: Refined, minimalist tasting menus with Scandinavian influences in a serene setting — ideal for thoughtful dining rather than showmanship.
Consider Alternatives If: You’re seeking loud energy, oversized portions, or a casual, à la carte meal experience.