Next - Japan *
- Kira Jabri
- Apr 10
- 4 min read
April 5th, 2026
Chicago, IL
Next holds a special place to us because who doesn’t love a theme? Each menu is a completely new concept, a new story, a new world. It’s one of the few places where dining feels truly short-lived, where if you miss it, it’s gone and the “NEXT” experience has moved into the spot . And that’s exactly what brought us back to Chicago, determined not to miss the final weeks of the Japan menu before its close on April 26.
We had been following along as the team documented their R&D journey through Japan, and that sense of exploration translated seamlessly to the table. From the moment the experience began, it was clear: this wasn’t just a menu inspired by Japan it was a deeply studied, carefully interpreted narrative.
The pairings, as always, were exceptional, a true extension of the experience. There were several standout moments, but a few dishes stayed with us long after the evening ended.
The King Crab was simply stunning, refined, indulgent, and perfectly balanced. Elevated further by an aromatic element that quite literally filled the table, the scent alone became part of the dish. It was one of those rare moments where you wish you could take the experience home with you. We’re still thinking about that aroma (and yes, we would absolutely buy it as a candle).
And then, of course, the truffled potato purée.
This dish carries history for us. We were first introduced to it during the Next pop-up at Charlie Trotter's, and the moment it arrived this time, we immediately recognized it. Few dishes have that kind of presence comforting yet luxurious, simple in concept yet impossible to replicate. We will never tire of seeing this on the supplements and it will always be an easy sell.
A unique supplement to the Japan menu was the Caviar – bluefin tuna, wasabi, and crème fraiche. This was served with nori sheets so we could make our own hand rolls. In true Jabri style, Carmine and Kira shares… Emma our caviar princess had her own.
One of the biggest surprises of the evening and a perfect example of Next’s ability to challenge expectations was the musk melon with saffron, pine nut, and spaghetti squash.
In our house, spaghetti squash is… debated. Kira loves it, Emma is selective depending on preparation, and Carmine dislikes it (especially when it’s Kira’s version). But this dish changed everything. None of us had ever experienced spaghetti squash in a dessert context, and yet it worked beautifully. Balanced, nuanced, and unexpectedly delicious. A rare unanimous win.
Beyond the dishes themselves, what continues to set Next apart is its commitment to storytelling. Every detail feels intentional from the pacing to the plating to the sensory elements woven throughout the meal. It’s immersive without being overwhelming, creative without losing focus, and refined without ever feeling inaccessible.
Next isn’t just a restaurant it’s an experience defined by time, place, and imagination. And once again, it reminded us why we continue to come back.
We’ll see you soon.
Next stop: Wall Street, 1987.
April 5th, 2025
Next - The Bobby Flay Experience
Some of the best dining experiences happen when you least expect them. Our latest adventure led us to Next, a themed restaurant in Chicago known for its ever-evolving menus and immersive culinary storytelling. And it all started with a bounced email.
Emma aka “EDM” as we refer to her (Emma Does Michelin), formed a special bond with Ms. Hannah, a wonderful staff member at Alinea who always made our visits extra memorable. As we planned another trip to Chicago, Emma eagerly reached out to let Ms. Hannah know we’d be dining at Alinea again. She was heartbroken when her e-mail bounced. The exceptional team at Alinea quickly came to the rescue, letting us know that “Ms. Hannah” was still part of The Alinea Group and had moved to Next. With that news, we set off to experience Next for ourselves.
The Alinea Group consistently sets the bar for impeccable service. They take Michelin-
starred dining and make it welcoming for families, creating unforgettable moments that bridge fine dining and warm hospitality. When Emma did her school report on Chicago, she highlighted both Chef Grant Achatz and her beloved Ms. Hannah—a testament to the impact these experiences leave on diners of all ages.
Our visit coincided with the Bobby Flay Experience, a menu that paid homage to the bold flavors and signature techniques of the celebrity chef. Every dish was a masterpiece, packed with the vibrant, smoky, and spicy elements Flay is known for. From the first bite to the last, the evening was pure culinary magic.
Beyond the phenomenal cuisine, the staff at Next amazed us with their storytelling. They didn’t just serve dishes; they transported us into the essence of each course, sharing the inspiration, history, and artistry behind every bite. Their passion and engagement made the experience even more immersive and unforgettable.
Of course, the real highlight of the night was seeing Emma’s face light up when she reunited with Ms. Hannah. These moments remind us why we love exploring the world of fine dining—not just for the food, but for the people who make each experience truly special.
Next continues to surprise and delight with ever-changing themes, and we can’t wait to see what’s in store “Next”.
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