Planning to dine out this weekend? Here are some of Chicago’s best new restaurants

CHICAGO (CBS) — A lot you probably have plans to dine out this weekend. Chicago is full of options, but we’ve teamed up with TimeOut Chicago to bring you a list of some of the best new spots in town.

TimeOut Chicago assistant editor Jeffy Mai has been covering the local food and beverage scene for more than a decade, has compiled a list of the best new restaurants in Chicago.

For a modern Korean American experience from the well-regarded team behind Mott Street and Mini Mott, head to Second Generation in Logan Square.

• The restaurant used to be burger joint Mini Mott until the owners recently reconcepted and turned it into a sit-down restaurant
• The menu reflects the owners’ second generation roots
• Mott Street’s terrific burger is still on the menu
• Signature dishes include steak frites, with the beef marinated in Korean BBQ spices, and shrimp mac and cheese.

The next option is a good one for those who like Southern eats. Head over to Hyde Park for Southern comforts inspired by New Orleans at Daisy’s Po-Boy and Tavern.

• This new spot is by Erick Williams, the celebrated chef behind another Southern favorite, Virtue,
• The menu focuses on po’ boy sandwiches – filled with proteins like fried shrimp, roast beef, or catfish – as well as fried chicken.
• There’s even a muffuletta, a popular New Orleans sandwich, with a Chicago twist–olive giardiniera.
• The beverage program stays on theme, with cocktails like frozen hurricanes and sazeracs.

Next up is a unique option for those wanting a taste of Southeast Asia. You can savor the flavors of Cambodia at Khmai Cambodian Fine Dining in Rogers Park.

• There are very few Cambodian spots in Chicago.
• The restaurant is helmed by Mona Sang, an industry vet who previously worked with Lettuce Entertain You, and her mother.
• The pair turn out bold and traditional dishes from their home country.
• Highlights include beef skewers marinated in lemongrass, spices, and chili peppers; short ribs served with funky fish sauce; and Cambodian hot pot loaded with veggies, meats, seafood, and rice noodles.

And what’s dinner without some drinks? There are plenty of places for a good bite in Chinatown but until Nine Bar recently arrived, there were no cocktail lounges.

• The bar is hidden away behind a carryout restaurant, Moon Palace Express.
• The space is dim, moody and inspired by the aesthetics of Blade Runner.
• The menu offers sakes, highballs, and Asian-influenced cocktails like an old fashioned made with rice vodka, plum wine, and barley instead of whiskey.
• There’s also a small menu of snacks, such as crab Rangoons and a McKatsu sandwich featuring a crispy pork cutlet.

Finally, we’ve got to get desert in there. Start the weekend off right with delectable pastries from Mindy’s Bakery in Wicker Park.

• James Beard Award winner and celebrated pastry chef Mindy Segal closed her beloved restaurant Hot Chocolate a few years ago, but has returned with this new bakery.
• Stop in bright and early, because items sell out quickly.
• You’ll find everything from bagels and croissants to cookies and cakes.
• Segal’s famous mac and cheese is also available, as are treats for your four-legged best friend.

You can read more about Mai’s full list of the 15 best new restaurants in Chicago at TimeOut Chicago.

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