Two Bucket-List Chicago Dining Experiences Are Joining Forces

42 Grams’ Jake Bickelhaupt returns for two nights only

July 25, 2017 9:00 am

Uptown favorite 42 Grams had a better run than most restaurants: two stars from Michelin (in 2014, and every year since) and three from the Chicago Tribune. It won countless plaudits from countless outlets, yours truly included. And then it closed last month without so much as a whimper.

No one, however, said they were done for good.

Because underground dining outfit Claudia is hosting ex-42 Grams chef Jake Bickelhaupt for two nights of elevated culinary company, and they’re taking reservations right now.

42 Grams

Bickelhaupt worked the line at places like Charlie Trotter’s, Alinea and Schwa before starting what would become the blueprint for 42 Grams: the supper club Sous Rising, which he hosted in his apartment in Uptown. He would go on to win a Food & Wine Best New Chef in 2015.

Respect.

What he does well: gorgeous, complicated dishes that spare no detail. Which makes for a natural fit with Claudia’s man-in-charge Trevor Teich, also a virtuoso at plates so pretty you’re reluctant to eat them. If you’ve never heard of Claudia, know it’s one of the best-kept fine-dining secrets in town. It’s BYOB, no-frills and serves up inventive grub in an intimate setting.

Claudia

Teich and Bickelhaupt will join forces on August 11 and 13th, alternating courses and collaborating on some. Diners can expect some of Bickelhaupt’s signature dishes, plus a few surprises.

It’s going to be memorable, and it bears emphasis that space is limited.

So grab a date. Your tickets await.

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