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mfk. Restaurant
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
mfk. Restaurant
8.7
An intimate, subterranean boîte earning eleven consecutive Michelin Bib Gourmand awards since 2014. Chef Alisha Elenz prepares refined Catalan and Basque coastal dishes with a seafood focus—think boquerones, fideos, and whole grilled prawns—in a 28-seat space with whitewashed brick and a devoted neighborhood following.
Must-Try Dishes:
Boquerones on Toast, Fideos with Mussels, Cataplana
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Eleven consecutive Michelin Bib Gourmand awards with Jean Banchet Best Neighborhood Restaurant honors
Who should go: Seafood lovers, couples seeking intimacy, culinary explorers
When to visit: Weeknight dinner for a quieter experience at the bar
What to order: Boquerones, Spanish tortilla, seasonal fideos
Insider tip: Arrive early to snag bar seats overlooking the open kitchen and try Wine Wednesday for half-price bottles
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only, no valet. Can be competitive after 6pm in this Lincoln Park/Lakeview area—allow extra time. CTA buses 76 (Diversey) and 77 (Belmont) stop nearby.
Dress code: Upscale casual with a breezy, European sensibility. Jeans work but lean smart—think elevated neighborhood dinner. The vibe celebrates 'seersucker suits and Iggy & The Stooges.'
Noise level: Intimate but can get buzzy when full. The 28-seat subterranean space amplifies energy—some reviewers note it's 'not conversation friendly' at peak times, though weeknights are quieter.
Weekend wait: Reservations essential for this 28-seat space. Book via Resy at least a week ahead for Friday/Saturday.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable—dinner service only. Opens 5pm Mon-Sat, 4pm Sunday.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Moderate options—Spanish tortilla, seasonal vegetables, and several small plates. Menu not vegetarian-focused but accommodating.
Vegan options: Very limited. Seafood-centric menu with butter and cheese featuring prominently. Not recommended for strict vegans.
Gluten-free options: Yes—menu is well-labeled and staff accommodating. Many dishes naturally GF. Not a dedicated facility, so celiacs should communicate needs directly.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Exceptional. The intimate 28-seat basement space with whitewashed brick, dim lighting, and Spanish coastal ambiance creates instant romance. Bar seats overlooking the open kitchen add interaction. One of Chicago's best first-date spots—sophisticated without being stuffy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Unlikely on weekends—only 16 table seats plus 12 at the bar. Walk-ins have better luck weeknights or for early Sunday dinner (opens 4pm). Bar seating is first-come for solo diners and couples willing to wait briefly.
Is it kid-friendly? Not recommended. The intimate, wine-focused atmosphere, tapas-style small plates, and sophisticated menu cater to adults. No kids' menu, limited space for strollers, and the vibe skews romantic/date night. Best for ages 16+ with adventurous palates.
Best For
Better for: Intimate date nights over competitors like Avec or Bar Biscay. Superior for those seeking authentic Catalan/Basque coastal cooking, Michelin-recognized consistency (11 consecutive Bib Gourmands), and a cozy neighborhood feel with serious culinary credentials.
Skip if: You want large portions, need substantial vegan options, are dining with young children, or prefer a lively group setting. The small-plates format and 28-seat capacity aren't suited for big celebrations or families with kids.
mfk. Restaurant
8.5
mfk. is an intimate Spanish coastal restaurant where a compact, seafood-heavy menu runs from boquerones and octopus a la plancha to seafood fideus and Basque cake. Multiple Michelin Bib Gourmand nods and a low-lit, below-street-level room make it a serious draw for date-night seafood in Lake View East.
Must-Try Dishes:
Octopus a la Plancha, Seafood Fideus, Spanish Tortilla with Salt Cod Brandade
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: A Bib Gourmand–recognized Spanish coastal spot where seafood-focused small plates and whole fish headline a tiny, atmospheric room.
Who should go: Seafood-focused diners looking for intimate, chef-driven Spanish plates.
When to visit: Early evening reservations for a relaxed, paced multi-plate meal.
What to order: Octopus a la plancha, seafood fideus, Spanish tortilla with salt cod brandade.
Insider tip: Let the team build a seafood-heavy progression and save room for Basque cake if it’s on.