Green Zebra, Chicago

For my vegetarian husband and food-loving me to dine out together and both be impressed by a fantastic meal, well, it’s quite a feat. Green Zebra, a restaurant new in Spring ’04, turned out to be one of those restaurants that unite the two of us in our love of fresh, organic, and innovative food. When we heard the first whispers of a vegetable focused, fine dining restaurant, we shared acute anticipation. We hoped that our appetite for exciting, and whenever possible, local, organic fare could be deliciously satisfied. We were on tetherhooks for a number of reasons: a friend of ours has connections to the owners of this energizing new restaurant, and he’d occasionally give us updates on its progress. It was one of the most all-around enjoyable meals I’ve had. Not only was the staff warm and welcoming, but also, the setting and décor were quite zen, despite a full house. To entice those less open to a meal of veggies in various guises, they usually have one or two meat-fish-chicken dishes. Still, it’s time to give up hating broccoli and live dangerously; embrace the heirloom tomato! Make the most of your adventurous appetite and let Green Zebra win you over.. www.greenzebrachicago.com. -Sarah