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Elske
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
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.
Skip if: You’re seeking loud energy, oversized portions, or a casual, à la carte meal experience.
Elske
8.7
Elske, opened in 2016 by David and Anna Posey, is a Michelin-starred Scandinavian-influenced spot balancing a tasting menu with a la carte in a minimalist room and courtyard. The cooking leans precise and comforting at once, with a sunflower seed parfait that has become a citywide dessert reference point.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sunflower seed parfait with sour honey, licorice and bee pollen, Grilled pork ribs with carrot barbecue sauce and lovage, Duck liver tart on rye with salted ramp
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Danish-inspired tasting and à la carte with a cult-favorite dessert.
Who should go: Design-conscious diners who like quiet, precise cooking.
When to visit: Later seatings for candlelit courtyard and relaxed pacing.
What to order: Tasting menu, duck liver tart, sunflower seed parfait.
Insider tip: If offered, pair juices for a different, equally considered experience.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking can be found in the surrounding West Loop blocks, but it’s limited during peak dinner hours. Paid garages are available within a short walk.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy — polished denim is fine, but most guests opt for elevated date-night attire.
Noise level: Low to moderate — conversation is easy, especially at later seatings.
Weekend wait: Reservations are strongly recommended; walk-in waits can be 60+ minutes or not available.
Weekday lunch: Lunch is not typically served.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — the kitchen is thoughtful with vegetarian accommodations, especially on the tasting menu.
Vegan options: Limited — advance notice is recommended so the kitchen can prepare appropriate courses.
Gluten-free options: Many items can be adapted — notify the team in advance for the tasting menu.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the intimate room and courtyard, attentive service, and tasting menu format make it ideal for a romantic, conversation-forward first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Occasionally, but not reliably — especially on weekends. It’s best to book ahead or check for last-minute cancellations.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly — the experience is geared toward adults, tasting menus, and quiet dining. Older teens may enjoy it, but it’s not ideal for young children.
Best For
Better for: Design-forward fine dining with Scandinavian restraint, a serene atmosphere, and a tasting menu that still feels warm and personal.
Skip if: You want a loud, social scene, large portions, or a highly casual dinner — or if strict dietary needs require extensive last-minute adjustments.
Elske
8.4
Elske pairs a Scandinavian-leaning tasting menu with a smaller à la carte list in a minimalist dining room and courtyard. The cooking leans subtle and seasonal, with composed plates that prioritize balance and warmth over showiness.
Must-Try Dishes:
Duck Liver Tart with Ramp and Parsley, Soft Scrambled Eggs with Confit Chicken Thigh and Crispy Grains, Leeks with Walnuts and Smoked Cheese
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Nordic-influenced tasting menus and snacks served in a calm, design-forward space.
Who should go: Couples and small groups who appreciate subtle, seasonal cooking.
When to visit: Early evening or patio-friendly nights for the courtyard.
What to order: Tasting menu, duck liver tart, any current seasonal vegetable course.
Insider tip: Plan for a pre- or post-dinner drink by the outdoor fireplace when weather cooperates.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking can be limited in the West Loop, especially during dinner hours; paid garages are available within a short walk.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy — polished denim is fine, but most guests dress up a bit.
Noise level: Generally calm and conversational — you can comfortably hear your table.
Weekend wait: Reservations are strongly recommended; walk-ins are unlikely during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable — primarily a dinner destination.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Accommodations are typically available with advance notice.
Vegan options: More limited — call ahead to confirm menu adjustments.
Gluten-free options: Staff can often adapt courses; note restrictions when booking.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the intimate space, thoughtful pacing, and quiet atmosphere make it ideal for conversation-driven dates.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Occasionally on slower weekdays, but most seats are booked in advance. Plan ahead for weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly — the tasting-menu format and quiet room are best suited to adults and older teens.
Best For
Better for: A serene, design-driven fine-dining experience with subtle, seasonal cooking rather than theatrical tasting-menu showpieces.
Skip if: You prefer large portions, fast pacing, or a highly energetic dining room — or if you want a more casual, budget-friendly night out.