Chicagoist: Green Zebra

Stephen

Mon, 28 Nov 2005 17:58:28 -0600

Green Zebra is NOT a vegetarian restaurant! It's way too good for it be called that. Shawn McClain has created a new type of restaurant and cuisine as far as I'm concerned. If the veggie restaurants in town were even half as good, more carnivores would patronize them. At Green Zebra, the emphasis is on the food which just happens to be mostly vegetables, and not on politics.

Claire Zulkey

Mon, 28 Nov 2005 11:56:59 -0600

I had an epic meal at Green Zebra with my family and we adored it--and we are serious carnivores. yum yum yum. I'd go back in a second (provided that my Dad pays for it so I can order everything I want.)

TomD.Arch

Mon, 28 Nov 2005 10:58:06 -0600

Some tips: The menu is broken into 3 'chunks' starting with the lightest, most subtle flavors and moving to heavier, stronger dishes. The best bet is to go for three courses (one round from each 'chunk' of the menu) and then dessert. (This isn't Friday's - take your time and expect to spend a couple of hours here!) Go with people you can share dishes with. These are all small plates, so the best bet is to order rounds for the table and have them as 'communal' dishes for everyone. One dish per person per round will leave you pretty full at the end of the meal. Don't be afraid to close your eyes and really taste what's happening in your mouth! Don't be afraid to skip the meat dishes. I'm an omnivore, but times I've eaten here and skipped the meat entirely, I've still been extraordinarily satisfied. The meat/fish dishes are good, but they aren't the 'raison d'etre' of the restaurant. Try some things you expect to not like - you'll be surprised! I hate anise, but I love the dishes I've had here that have anise components! Green Zebra has an extraordinary wine list: It's carefully selected to pair with the unique, subtle food. Even if you aren't a big fan of white wine, give one a try here - they match better with most of the subtle dishes. Ask your server for a recommendation. Many of the best wines on the list are one's you've never heard of - break out of the 'oh I'll just get a Chardonnay' box and try some of these amzaing 'new to you' wines! Plus, the wines aren't terribly expensive, and are great vaules for the quality. Leave (or make) room for dessert. Sadly the macadamia nut/Valrhona chocolate mousse isn't on the menu anymore, but everything is amazing. Also, look forward to the tea and coffee lists (just like the wine list, they are all great selections and go really well with the food!)

sarah

Mon, 28 Nov 2005 10:42:26 -0600

I'm still happy from this yummy and very fun meal. Such a nice review! Sorry again that I kept you waiting at the non-bar... xoxoxo

LEElee CP

Mon, 28 Nov 2005 09:58:59 -0600

i ate at Green Zebra over a year ago, and as a vegetarian, it was the best food i have ever had in my life. And it's not completely vegetarian! Our menu had included 2 chicken dishes for the meat eater you bring along.