Ever **

Jul 27

2 min read

It had been far too long since our last visit to Ever, and Emma had been reminding us for months that it needed to be part of our next trip to Chicago. Some restaurants leave an impression. Ever becomes part of your family's story. If you've followed us for a while, you already know why this restaurant holds such a special place in our hearts.

While we don't consider ourselves food critics, there are a handful of restaurants where we simply cannot understand the Michelin Guide's decision. Ever is at the very top of that list. If we ever start a series called Restaurants Missing a Star, this would undoubtedly be our first feature. This is, without question, a three-star experience. It is the Unites States equivalent to ROW on 45.

Ever is also one of those rare restaurants that makes you forget about the outside world. Time slows down, something that is very rare for our family. Every detail, from the room to the service to each plate, draws your complete attention. Few restaurants create that sense of immersion so effortlessly.

One of the greatest joys of returning has been watching Emma's relationship with the team continue to grow. She absolutely adores her Miss Hannah, and it has been wonderful to watch their friendship evolve over the years. That familiarity speaks volumes about Ever's hospitality. They don't simply remember reservations; they remember people.

The dining room remains stunningly luxurious without ever feeling excessive, while the cuisine is nothing short of meticulous, everything reflects extraordinary technical precision. Every course is genuinely a work of art, making it nearly impossible to choose a favorite photograph. If we had to, however, it would be the unforgettable coconut course with makrut, chicken, and cilantro. Beautifully inspired by the flavors of Thailand, it has become what we consider Ever's signature dish (they may not claim a signature dish but we do 😊). The delicate puffed millet transforms an already elegant presentation into something unforgettable. During a previous visit, we were fortunate enough to see members of the kitchen create this dish. Watching that level of patience, precision only deepened our appreciation for what eventually arrives at the table.

coconut course with makru, chicken, and cilantro — Coconut Course

Just when we thought the evening couldn't become more memorable, Ever introduced a delightful surprise. As a playful nod to Chef Duffy's sweet tooth, dessert continued inside a velvet-draped candy room. It felt whimsical without ever sacrificing sophistication. The grape cotton candy was unlike anything we've ever tasted, and the entire experience was a magical finale to an extraordinary evening.

Ever’s beautiful team continue to set the standard for exceptional cuisine and hospitality.

For us, Ever remains one of the finest dining experiences in America. Michelin may currently recognize it with two stars, but in our eyes, it has long deserved its third.