Algae on Crackers, Karyn’s on Green

UPDATE: We are sorry to learn that Karyn’s on Green has closed.

Spending time in Chicago typically involves visits to a couple of steakhouses to keep the Brawny Sherpa happy, but we try to include a restaurant that I favor in our mix of indulgences. Most recently, we discover Karyn’s on Green, a vegan restaurant on South Green Street.

I knock back Treetinis (VeeV açai, cucumber, mint, agave, lime juice), saving some trees (one tree is planted for each one serve) and enjoy dairy-like vegan cheese made of cashews and algae (far, far better than the rubbery vegan cheese I typically pick up at my local health food store).

We are fortunate to chat briefly with Karyn Calabrese, who doesn’t dismiss the Brawny Sherpa’s beef-loving rigor. On this night, we are both vegans, though. Most importantly, he likes the food (butternut squash soup followed by carmelized Brussels sprouts); we love the energy, and we can’t wait to return.

—Lori Tripoli