CHIReview
photo credit: Christina Slaton
Giant
Included In
What’s the concept? What’s the angle? How can we accurately and humorously get the point across without using too many swear words or making an immature joke? Those are the questions we usually ask ourselves when starting to write a review. And there’s always an answer. Every restaurant has some sort of dining version of an Aesop’s fable to tell. But Giant isn’t every restaurant, so let’s get straight to the facts: Giant is an American restaurant, it’s f*cking excellent, and you need to eat here.
There’s no angle, no shtick, no story, just a swear word for emphasis because it’s deserved. If you’re planning a date, dinner with the parents, or eating with a small group of friends who appreciate great food, Giant is the place to do it. There’s a lot of energy here, and it translates into the food and experience as a whole.
photo credit: Christina Slaton
photo credit: Christina Slaton
If you liked the old Nightwood in Pilsen, then you’re going to love Giant. It’s the follow-up restaurant in Logan Square from the same guy, and this time he’s teamed up with some new friends. The most impressive part of Giant is the fact all of the dishes are created equal. Rather than one or two outstanding things, Giant rolls out hit, after hit, after hit. It’s like the original Now That’s What I Call Music!, but instead of going from The Backstreet Boys, to Hansen’s MMMBop, to K-Ci & JoJo, you go from uni shooters, to waffle fries and crab salad, to al dente pastas more perfect than Nick Carter’s hair.
Boring items like broccoli are made interesting with lemon, yogurt, and thai chili oil, creating the perfect balance of hot and cold. And while classic American dishes like baby back ribs seem out of place, one bite of their tender, spicy, and smoky goodness will make you a believer.
Consistency across a variety of dishes like this is rarely seen, yet Giant does it with a perceived sense of simplicity and ease. But that sh*t ain’t easy, which makes us appreciate it even more. That trait is also clearly carried over to the staff, who is friendly, knowledgable, and will help out if you need.
So accept Giant for what it is - a great restaurant with delicious food, an enjoyable atmosphere, and no unnecessary tricks. The kind of place so good we didn’t need a single immature joke to get the point across.
Food Rundown
photo credit: Christina Slaton
Fried Super Uni Shooter
Little Biscuits
photo credit: Christina Slaton
Sweet and Spicy Peppers
photo credit: Christina Slaton
Jonah Crab Salad
Marinated Zucchini
photo credit: Christina Slaton
Broccoli
photo credit: Christina Slaton
Sweet Corn
Onion Rings
Garlic Buttermilk Potatoes
photo credit: Christina Slaton
Sortallini
photo credit: Christina Slaton
Pici, With Chew
photo credit: Christina Slaton
Fusili Jerry
Bavette Steak
Baby Back Ribs
photo credit: Christina Slaton