18 Postcards
Avec River North is a sprawling, stylish eatery serving delightful Mediterranean dishes, from beloved classics to fresh new bites, all paired with an impressive wine list.
"The lunch menu at the downtown location of this Chicago classic features two soups. One is simple and full of roasted veggies. But it’s taken to a new level thanks to two toppings: simple sesame yogurt and a sensational zesty green chili zoug. The latter proves how little touches can really amplify flavors." - Naomi Waxman, Ashok Selvam
"This is the second location of Avec, and is about 56 times larger than the original in the West Loop. Other notable differences are that it doesn’t have communal seating, and has a longer menu full of Avec classics (like the chorizo-stuffed bacon-wrapped dates and taleggio focaccia), along with a lot more small and large plates, pastas, and pizza. And because the space here is bigger and everyone gets their very own seat, this is the better Avec for a group or business dinner when you don’t want to ask the boss to move whenever you need to go to the restroom." - adrian kane, john ringor, veda kilaru
"This is the second location of Avec, and is about 56 times larger than the original in the West Loop. Avec 2.0 now serves brunch, with dishes like a giant orange brown butter glazed cinnamon roll and shakshuka, plus bottomless mimosas. Other notable differences are that it doesn’t have communal seating, so you won't have to ask everyone to move whenever you need to go to the restroom. The Deal: Bottomless mimosas for $28" - adrian kane, veda kilaru
"Let’s say someone in your party might have a little too much wine, then shout something rude about your future in an ivory tower. Head to Avec in River North. Unlike narrow, shoebox-sized Avec in the West Loop, no one can overhear your conversation at this much larger location. Plus, the combination of wood and tile floors, tall windows, and high ceilings make the whole space sound like a mall food court in December. The menu is full of delicious Avec classics (like the chorizo-stuffed bacon-wrapped dates and taleggio flatbread), along with a lot more small and large plates, pastas, and pizza." - veda kilaru, john ringor, adrian kane, nick allen
"One Off Hospitality successfully transformed this River North spot into the second location of one of Chicago’s most popular restaurants. Avec helped define Chicago’s restaurant scene with popular items like the legendary bacon-wrapped stuffed Medjool dates. Those classics remain, served a much roomier quarters. But the staff has added new items, like pizza and small plates (chicken liver crostini is a winner)." - Ashok Selvam, Naomi Waxman
