Azul 18 Restaurant, Chicago

Although New American is the best way to describe Azul 18 Restaurant's cuisine, head chef Martin Ramirez clearly drew on international influences when creating the menus. He whips up American classics, such as fried chicken with coleslaw and mac 'n' cheese featuring arugula and bacon, as well as tuna niçoise, chicken schnitzel, and other eats more commonly found across the pond. The neighborhood's Mexican culture is also evident in dishes such as chilaquiles, huevos rancheros, and fish tacos. To complement these savory meals, Azul 18 Restaurant indulges sweet teeth with housemade desserts.