Ever
Chicago, USA
⭐2 Stars
The Experience
From Michelin Guide
On a quiet, near empty corner of Fulton Market, Chef Curtis Duffy runs a world of his own making. Venetian hybrid plaster, starry lighting, and slat wall panels set the foundation for this dramatic, high-style room, where tables are spaciously arranged and where perfectly coordinated servers stand at attention. This rigorous attention to detail extends to a cuisine that is at once original, attractive, and enticing. Ora King salmon with fennel, wagyu with braised pistachios, or English pea puree with puffed grains and black garlic all arrive with unexpected flair and form – and never at the cost of flavor. A generous wine program, spirit-free drinks, and even an adjoining cocktail bar further enhance an experience to remember.
Unique Things
From Visitor Experiences
Here are three unique and unconventional aspects of the Michelin-starred restaurant Ever in Chicago:
1. Artistic Presentation with Functional Flavor
Ever's dishes are not just visually stunning but every artistic flair enhances the flavor experience. For example, the perfectly timed serving of frosted hamachi on purple rice demonstrates a mastery of temperature and texture that elevates the tasting experience beyond mere aesthetics.
2. A Culinary Performance Focused on Seasonality and Education
Ever offers an 8- to 10-course tasting menu that is described as a "gastronomic spectacle" that both thrills and educates diners. The menu sways to the beat of the seasons, featuring a range of proteins, less-familiar vegetables, and grains, all unified by verdant and herbaceous notes, creating an earthy yet otherworldly dining journey.
3. Anticipatory and Personalized Service
The staff at Ever are noted for their exceptional hospitality, anticipating guests' needs before they even ask. For instance, they handle small details like taking umbrellas and ensuring seamless transitions to other dining experiences, reflecting a level of care and professionalism that enhances the overall experience.
These elements combine to make Ever a distinct and memorable Michelin-starred restaurant in Chicago.
Ingredient Stars
From Visitor Experiences
The most honored or signature ingredients at Michelin-starred restaurant Ever in Chicago include:
Caviar: Featured prominently in dishes like asparagus with caviar and bearnaise, and scallop with parsnip, dill, and caviar, caviar adds luxury and a distinctive briny flavor that elevates these courses.
Truffle: Used in multiple entrees such as wild mushroom and braised escarole ragout and aged NY strip with truffle, potato, and tarragon, truffle imparts an earthy, aromatic depth that is a hallmark of fine dining.
Potato: Appearing in both appetizers (potato with bacon, crème fraîche, scallion) and main courses (aged NY strip with truffle and potato), potato serves as a versatile and comforting base ingredient with rich accompaniments.
Mushroom: Highlighted in the wild mushroom ragout and also paired with maitake in the Iberico tenderloin dish, mushrooms contribute umami and texture, enhancing the herbaceous and earthy profile of the cuisine.
Stone Fruit: Used alongside smoked duck breast and chorizo in a paella-inspired dish, stone fruit adds a subtle sweetness and seasonal freshness that balances savory and spicy flavors.
These ingredients reflect Ever's emphasis on refined, herbaceous, and balanced dishes that combine luxury elements like caviar and truffle with seasonal vegetables and fruits to create whimsical yet respectable culinary experiences.