The classic dish saag paneer is traditionally fresh cheese served with spiced spinach or mustard greens, but Marisa Paolillo gives it a feeling of springtime in Chicago by adding asparagus.
Paolillo selects eggplant for her restaurant.
Mango Pickle’s décor features multicolored Indian silks.
Springtime vegetables such as young onions and green garlic are cooked with spiced root vegetables in a sealed clay pot to retain all of their flavors and moisture.
Paolillo and husband Nakul Patel commissioned artist Yahel Chirinian to make this figure of the Hindu got Ganesh, known for removing obstacles and bringing luck, wisdom and success.
A personal touch at Mango Pickle is Paolillo’s collection of buttons containing positive mantras and images, including one of Indian independence leader Mohandas Gandhi.
Memorabilia from Paolillo’s time in India separates the kitchen from the dining room.