Feb. 17--Head for the purple awning, set back from Michigan Avenue, for a delirious assortment of protein-rich, Mediterranean small plates from James Beard-award-winning chef Jimmy Bannos, Jr. Charcuterie, cheese and spreads take up much of the menu, along with signature treats such as Bannos' milk-braised pork shoulder. Seating is largely communal and you'll stand around a bit before seats open up, but a boisterous crowd of regulars is happy to do just that.
MORE: Phil Vettel's full review of The Purple Pig
Tribune rating: ? ?
Address: 500 N. Michigan Ave.
Phone: 312-464-1744
Website: thepurplepigchicago.com
Open: Lunch and dinner daily
Prices: Small plates $9-$17
Credit cards: A, DC, DS, M, V
Reservations: Not accepted
Noise: Conversation-challenged
Ratings key: ? ? ? ? outstanding; ? ? ? excellent; ? ? very good; ? good; no stars: unsatisfactory. The reviewer makes every effort to remain anonymous. Meals are paid for by the Tribune.
