@kimskichicago is the ultimate example of unique collaborations that bring the neighborhood together through food by fusing Korean and Polish cuisines. This street food menu was born when Maria’s Packaged Goods & Community Bar welcomed Chef Won Kim to develop a new twist to the restaurant side and the guy nailed it!
Everything about this place is entertaining! The environment Won has curated repels boredom and makes your favorite things like eating a bowl of noodles, Korean-style pierogis, and drinking beer even more fun— somehow! From the little art pieces you find scattered around the place to the sticker collage wall, Kimski has rad, clever designs, and even inspirational quotes that will make your grandma blush. The open kitchen set up is one of our favorite aspects about the restaurant, all together making Kimski feel familiar and communal, but still impossible to duplicate (unless you hire Won to design your spot).
When you think you’ve seen it all, go behind the register, past the kitchen, and through the door— just like that you’re in Maria’s Bar! It is a weird feeling to walk through but trust us and Won, you are nowhere near the dangerous kitchen stuff. If anything, this is a great excuse to spark a conversation with the staff and make some new friends!
After our conversation with Won, we realized that this is what it’s all about. He created a place for constant playfulness that everyone can enjoy and it is obvious that he lives by a simple rule: Be nice! Have some fun!
Kimski and Won are currently working on a project during the airing of this episode. Big things are coming and we are excited to see what he comes up with soon! At this time, go check out their fill in, @morganstreetsnacks . They will be serving up incredible cheesesteaks from Jan-Apr.
Chef and Owner Adrienne doesn’t only welcome you to enjoy her restaurant, NoodleBird, but she welcomes you to her family traditions and the community she’s built on this corner.
At NoodleBird, if you feel you’re about to get a grandparent-approved meal, rich with culture, tradition, and nostalgia— that’s because you are. Chef Adrienne’s recipes evolved out of her grandparents cooking and love for their culture. And the homey feels don’t stop there. Decorated from past family members, with lush green plants, animal figurines, and family portraits, the restaurant is a living extension of her family and traditions (with the coolest bathroom doors!).
The open kitchen concept appealed to the staff because it gives them the chance to talk to their customers, and the counter seating allows you to share a meal with others. So just be prepared to make a new life long friend because we had that exact experience.
Adrienne didn’t open a food spot. She curated a space and menu to honor her family, provide and meet her community, and tell customers who she is all about. And trust us, after one visit, one conversation, one bite, you will realize how awesome Adrienne is! Stop at NoodleBird to get to know her!
Moody’s market is a special place ran by the friendliest friends! Alaine, Melissa, Michael, and Mollie have come together to create a space that can be described with many positive words! The one I use is comfort.
The warm atmosphere is tangible right when you walk in. From the decor to the staff- the environment invites a smile on your face and a drop in your shoulders. And even though the simple floor plan allows for a convenient wine trip, we have yet to find ourselves able to leave the place in under 10 minutes.
It has the type of energy that makes you want to order some delicious food from Chef Michael and Chef Mollie, drink remarkable wine, say hi to everyone, check out the eclectic decorations, and cancel your plans for the rest of the day!
If you’re out and about and need to take a break, go to Moody’s Market and thank us later!