Red Light

Description:

• Run by the same owners as Marché (above), Red Light puts a similar emphasis on one-of-a-kind decor. Here, the mood is sultry: The dining rooms have deep-red walls, colorful lanterns, gently waving palm fronds, sensuously curved windows and ceilings, and chairs that could be mistaken for metal sculptures. (They're not very comfortable, but they do look cool.) Chef Jackie Shen incorporates Chinese, French, Thai, and other Asian ingredients and cooking techniques. Curries and seafood entrees are the highlights, from a traditional Japanese tatsu curry to the crispy Shanghai-style whole catfish in red-vinegar-sweet-and-sour sauce. It's not on the menu, but the delicious "Hong Kong Jerry," named for the restaurant's owner, should not be missed: pepper-crusted beef chunks with mushrooms and vegetables in oyster sauce. You can also dig into traditional dishes such as pad thai or a modern version of kung pao chicken. And as befits a restaurant that's big on style, there's a fine selection of (expensive) specialty cocktails.

• © Frommer's 2013

Awards:

Chicago Magazine

•  Best Dish 2007

CitySearch

•  Pan Asian Food 2007 – Audience Winner
•  Pan Asian Food 2007 – Editorial Winner

Frommer's

•  Recommended 2010