Monday, May 16, 2011

Best affordable eats: Urban Belly

Head Chef: Bill Kim
3053 N. California ave {California + Barry}
(773) 583-0500
 A short trans-city car ride seems like a voyage across land and ocean with a big pay off when you arrive at the hidden gem of the far east, asian infusion street-chic cuisine that is Urban belly. Bare walls convey a serious and almost somber temperament; vitality and grandeur is restored with the long communal tables and seating made of ancient Indonesian fishing ship wood.
Bill Kim's method for dining is as easy as it gets: bring your own beverage, place your order, take a number, grab a seat, enjoy, repeat. The menu is a diverse smathering of Asian influences and flavors, with an emphasis on dumplings and noodles in well melded, warm broths. The pho is outstanding, I would go back a hundred times over just for that unique taste. Reverence is paid to the heritage of this 1950's born Vietnamese staple in a delicate and bold manner. A refreshing replacement to over publicized and consumed Chicago sushi spots, Urban belly is an escape to the Orient without the Japonais/ Takashi pricetag.
Another likable quality: 9 times out of 10 Bill Kim or his wife will be there to greet or thank you for coming in. 

{#4 Duck and Pho spices}

{#12 Urbanbelly ramen with pork belly, shiitake, and pho broth}

{#14 Asian egg noodles stir fried with spicy, real spicy, garlic chili, tofu and chinese egg plant}

{Sticky, gummy citrus candy from Vietnam}
Who to Bring
  • A date
  • Your hipster friend(s)
  • Anyone on a budget
  • Anyone in a don't leave my neighborhood to eat out rut
Give it a try
  • #11 udon shrimp, coriander, in a sweet chili lime broth
  • #7 pork belly and pineapple rice
  • #5 pork and cilantro dumpling
  • #3 Asian squash and bacon dumpling

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