Dec 1, 2023 - Food and Drink

Chef Art Smith's Best Day Ever in Chicago

Monica Eng

Chef Art Smith. Photo: Michael Tullberg/Getty Images

Chicago chef Art Smith has served the Obamas, Oprah Winfrey and scores of others who come to his restaurants across the country, including most recently Reunion at Navy Pier.

What's happening: The Kenwood resident is launching a Santa's Southern Workshop pop-up every Friday-Sunday through Dec. 23, featuring prix-fixe lunches and dinners ($15-$30), along with a visit with Mr. Claus.

We asked Smith to share his ideal day in town, where he spends at least half the year.

Breakfast: To start off my ideal day, you'd find me enjoying matzo brie at Eleven City Diner.

🍞 Morning activity: First, I would feed my critters. Once everyone is taken care of, I would bake a fresh sourdough and accomplish some work in my kitchen office.

Lunch: I'd head over to Navy Pier to my restaurant, Chef Art Smith's Reunion, to enjoy our navy bean soup. The perfect complement to a chilly Chicago day.

🚶🏼 Afternoon activity: An ideal afternoon would include a walk in my Kenwood-Hyde Park neighborhood.

Dinner: Jade Court in Hyde Park, where my order would be hot and sour soup and Singapore noodles.

💻 Evening activity: To cap off an ideal day, I'd spend some time on YouTube or enjoying cooking and travel shows.

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Chef Art Smith's Best Day Ever in Chicago

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