Has anyone here eaten at Alinea in Chicago?

God I wish. Not the same thing but I did go to his bar the Aviary which is well worth going to as a consolation prize. They have a few food items available. The only thing I can vouch for on that front is the "truffle explosion." It lived up to the name. Probably the richest thing Ive ever tasted.

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How good was the food?

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Strictly speaking from a food perspective, yes, best meal I've ever had. Some others have come close, but nope, it's still my all-time favorite.

When I went a long time ago, I think I had like 16 different things come to the table (ranging from tiny to fairly substantial), and 14 were great. Three or four of those were unforgettably superb, and one was the best bite of food I've ever had (Black Truffle Explosion).

You thinking about trying it?

I am going in a couple months. If you are unable to secure a reservation, I would also heartily recommend Grace. To date, my best meal award (topping Le Bernardin and Eleven Madison Park and Daniel (pre-drop to 2 stars)).