Chicago
Opened: March 2016
Chicago’s Greektown is getting a fresh addition with Aviva, a more modern, market-driven concept than its conventional neighbors. The name is Hebrew for “springtime,” and the seasonal menu features items from across the Mediterranean (Spain, Italy, France, Greece, North Africa and the Middle East). The menu is the work of consulting chef Alan Lake, who has worked as a hired gun for dozens of restaurants including Pensiero in Chicago and Etre in Palm Beach, FL. Offerings include Avocado Bombe stuffed with crab, shrimp, scallops, tarragon and lemon zest; and Pan-fried Branzino with Israeli couscous, saffron tomato broth and herb salad. The clean midcentury space subtly pulls in design elements from Greece, Italy and Morocco.