Finding the perfect French fry can be a quest, a delicious pilgrimage. In Hyde Park, Chicago, a neighborhood known for its vibrant culture and diverse culinary scene, that quest is especially rewarding. This guide explores the top 18 spots serving up some of the best fries the city has to offer, from classic thin-cut to loaded masterpieces. Get ready to embark on a crispy adventure!
The Classics: Perfectly Simple French Fries
These establishments keep it straightforward, focusing on the fundamental deliciousness of a well-made fry. The quality of the potato and the frying technique are paramount here.
1. The Promontory's Perfectly Crisp Fries
The Promontory, a renowned Hyde Park music venue, doesn't just offer incredible live music—their fries are equally noteworthy. Expect perfectly crisp exteriors and fluffy interiors, a testament to their commitment to quality ingredients and preparation. Their simple salt seasoning lets the potato flavor shine.
2. Medici on 57th's Classic Cut Fries
Medici on 57th, a beloved Italian restaurant, serves classic, thin-cut fries as the perfect accompaniment to their pasta dishes and pizzas. These fries are a testament to simplicity—perfectly golden brown, cooked just right, and a perfect vehicle for their delicious marinara sauce.
3. 57th Street Bookstore's Casual Comfort Fries
Even a bookstore knows the importance of a good side! 57th Street Bookstore, a Hyde Park staple, offers a surprisingly delicious selection of fries alongside their coffee and snacks. Their focus is on the simple pleasure of a well-cooked fry.
Elevated Fries: Gourmet Takes on a Classic
These locations take the humble French fry to new heights, adding unique flavors and inventive toppings.
4. The Sparrow's Truffle Parmesan Fries
The Sparrow, a sophisticated restaurant known for its innovative dishes, presents truffle parmesan fries as a delightful indulgence. The earthy truffle oil complements the salty parmesan, creating a luxurious fry experience.
5. Pleasant House Pub's Gourmet Fry Selection
Pleasant House Pub, a popular gastropub, boasts a rotating selection of gourmet fries, often featuring seasonal ingredients and interesting flavor combinations. Check their menu for current offerings—they frequently surprise with creative takes on the classic.
6. Pequod's Pizza's Deep-Dish Fry Inspiration
While famous for their deep-dish pizza, Pequod's Pizza also offers a surprisingly delightful take on French fries, incorporating their signature caramelized crust elements into a unique, pizza-inspired fry experience.
Loaded Fries: A Feast for the Senses
These restaurants pile on the toppings, creating hearty, flavorful meals in fry form.
7. Zippy's Loaded Fry Extravaganza
Zippy's offers a wide variety of loaded fries, each a unique culinary adventure. From chili cheese to bacon and cheddar, Zippy’s caters to every loaded fry craving. Their portions are generous, making them perfect for sharing (or not!).
8. Hyde Park Tap's Build-Your-Own Fry Bar
Hyde Park Tap allows for complete customization. Build your own masterpiece from a selection of cheeses, meats, sauces, and veggies, creating a truly personalized loaded fry experience.
9. The University of Chicago's Late-Night Fry Haven (Various Locations)
The University of Chicago campus features several late-night eateries with robust loaded fry options, a lifesaver for students studying late or enjoying a post-exam celebration.
Unique Fry Experiences: Beyond the Ordinary
These establishments offer fries with a twist, demonstrating creativity and culinary flair.
10. Kimbark Beverage Shop's Sweet Potato Fries
Kimbark Beverage Shop introduces a healthy and delicious twist with their sweet potato fries. The natural sweetness of the sweet potato shines through, offering a delightful alternative to traditional potatoes.
11. Soul Vegetarian Restaurant #1's Vegan Fries
Soul Vegetarian Restaurant #1 caters to a vegan clientele with their delicious, hearty, and completely plant-based fries. They prove that vegan food can be both satisfying and flavorful.
12. Manny's Cafeteria & Delicatessen's Classic Deli Fries
Manny's Cafeteria & Delicatessen adds a deli twist to their fries, serving them alongside their iconic pastrami on rye and other deli classics.
Hidden Gems: Discover Your New Favorite
These lesser-known locations might just surprise you with their excellent fries.
13. Valois Cafe's Unexpected Fry Delight
Valois Cafe, a Hyde Park institution, offers unexpectedly good fries as a side to their classic diner fare. Don’t underestimate this Hyde Park staple.
14. Harper Court's Casual Fry Options (Various Vendors)
Harper Court, a bustling mixed-use development, features various restaurants and cafes with solid fry options. Explore the diverse culinary offerings to uncover your next favorite.
15. Bronzeville Winery's Wine-Paired Fries (Seasonal)
Bronzeville Winery, while known for its wine selection, occasionally pairs their wine tastings with unique, seasonally-inspired fries. Check their event calendar for special pairings.
International Flair: Global Fry Inspiration
These spots introduce international influences to their fry game.
16. A Taste of Heaven's Caribbean-Spiced Fries
A Taste of Heaven adds a Caribbean twist to their fries, infusing them with warm spices for a unique and flavorful experience.
17. Kilimanjaro's African-Inspired Fry Variations
Kilimanjaro offers a range of African-inspired dishes, and their fries often reflect those flavors, providing a truly unique culinary adventure.
18. Chicago's South Side's Hidden Fry Treasures (Independent Eateries)
Don't forget to explore the smaller, independent eateries scattered throughout Hyde Park and the surrounding South Side neighborhoods. These hidden gems often boast creative and delicious fry options waiting to be discovered.
Conclusion:
Hyde Park's fry scene is rich and diverse, catering to every taste and preference. Whether you prefer a classic, simple fry or a loaded masterpiece, you're sure to find your perfect match amongst these 18 top contenders. So grab your friends, explore Hyde Park, and embark on your own personal French fry adventure! Remember to check menus and hours before your visit, as availability may vary. Happy frying!
