Pecking House

What started as a delivery operation with weeks-long waiting lists now has a permanent home in Prospect Heights. Pecking House’s new counter-service location looks a bit like a small cafeteria at a trendy tech company, but it’s a perfectly fine place to consume large amounts of poultry. Your priority should be the chili fried chicken with thick, crunchy skin covered in a firecracker dry rub, which you can get in a huge sandwich or as a meal with sides. If you’re looking to skip the spice, they also have a new chicken option with a salted egg crust slathered in a relish that has a nice pickled taste. You won’t be disappointed by any of the sides, but make sure to include the rich, flavorful duck heart gravy mashed potatoes.