Fox and Obel
While you’ll likely lay out a week’s grocery bill worth of cash, it’s worth the splurge. Lazy folk take note: In the summers, Fox and Obel offers six different five-course prepared picnic meals. Of course we prefer it DIY, and the deli counter which features specialty meats like D’Artagnan Sauccison Sec, a great spicy salami, or one of the best cheese counters in Chicago is a great place to start. Throw in fresh-baked baguette or eggy brioche from the warm yeast perfumed in-house boulangerie or a lemon-curd tart from the bakery and you’ll be splendoring in the grass in no time.
401 East Illinois (312)410-7301
Audience choice: Whole Foods
30 West Huron, (312)932-9600; 3300 North Ashland, (773)244-4200; 1000 West North, (312)587-0648; 1101 South Canal, (312)435-4600
Best of Chicago 2007