Perilla Chicago: Korean American Fare Worth a Visit

Perilla Chicago is a modern Korean restaurant located in Fulton River Park, close to the West Loop. The restaurant is situated in a neighborhood that has been rapidly developing over the past few years, and it has become a popular destination for foodies and those looking for a fun night out. Owners Thomas Oh and Andrew Lim chose Perilla as their restaurant’s name because the plant’s resilience and strength echo their parents’ lives and their stories as immigrants.

Perilla Chicago offers what they call Korean American fare, a unique dining experience that combines the flavors of Korean cuisine with modern American cooking techniques. More casual than upscale Jeong where you might go for a special occasion, Perilla’s menu features an array of small plates, entrees, and desserts, all of which are designed to be shared among diners. The menu is carefully curated to ensure that each dish is full of flavor and offers a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and savory notes.

One of the most notable features of Perilla is the mural of Michelle Obama that is prominently displayed on one of the restaurant’s outside walls. According to the Chicago Sun Times, the owners originally wanted a mural of their mother but L.A.-based artist Chris Chanyang aka Royyal Dog, suggested the former first lady who is also a Chicago native. Dressed in a vibrant hanbok, the stunning mural of Obama is a wonderful tribute to the restaurant’s commitment to celebrating diverse cultures and communities.

The atmosphere at Perilla is both modern and traditional, with a minimalist decor that is accented by Korean antiques and elegant fixtures. The restaurant’s layout is designed to accommodate groups of all sizes, with cozy booths and communal tables that encourage socializing and sharing. The overall ambiance is lively and fun, with upbeat music and a bustling energy that is sure to put diners in a good mood.

When it comes to the food, Perilla truly shines. The restaurant’s small plates are the perfect way to start a meal, and they offer a great opportunity to sample a variety of different flavors. Some of the standout small plates include kimchi fried rice, crispy Korean fried chicken, and spicy pork dumplings. These dishes are all bursting with flavor, and they showcase the unique and bold flavors of Korean cuisine.

Moving on to the entrees, Perilla offers a wide variety of options that are sure crowd pleasers. Some of the most popular entrees include the bibimbap, the Korean BBQ beef short ribs, and the crispy pork belly ssam. The dishes are inspired by traditional Korean fare but with a flare of creativity and interesting textures and flavors.

Michelin Bib Gourmand

Perilla also offers a set menu featuring Korean bbq, banchan, and some favorites such as rice cake royale and soybean stew. Two options for the tasting menu are priced at $70 and $120 per person. Perilla Chicago is featured in the Michelin Guide as a Bib Gourmand: good quality, good value cooking.

In addition to its delicious food and stunning decor, Perilla is also known for its excellent service. The restaurant’s staff is knowledgeable and attentive, and they are always happy to answer questions and make recommendations. From the moment diners walk through the door, they are treated like VIPs, and the staff goes out of their way to ensure that every diner has an exceptional experience.

Perilla Chicago is an excellent restaurant that offers a unique and relaxed dining experience. Whether diners are looking to try Korean cuisine for the first time or they are seasoned foodies looking for something new, Perilla has something to offer. With its delicious food, lively ambiance, and excellent service, Perilla is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a memorable night out in Chicago.