Aja
Put away the sorbet! Josh Linton, executive chef at Aja, the Asian restaurant on the ground level of River North’s Dana Hotel and Spa, brings an exciting alternative to the traditional palate refresher. Linton’s lime or lemongrass-flavored granitas can be eaten as a delightful dessert. The lime works especially well with ginger-snap cookies. But we think his icy concoctions are best enjoyed before dinner, as a flavorful prelude to signature dishes such as crispy chili rock shrimp, sesame chicken or short ribs with mashed potatoes. Linton makes a yuzu granita to accompany Aja’s daily oyster selection. To make the chilly treats, which Linton serves in chilled bowls, he blends shaved ice and his own handmade syrup.
660 North State
(312)202-6050
Best of Chicago 2009