(Un)filtered Bites: My Culinary Journey Through Chicago Restaurant Week 2025
Chicago Restaurant Week 2025
Welcome to My (Un)filtered Culinary Journey: Exploring Chicago, One Bite at a Time
Food has always been my passport to the world. From the bustling night markets of Southeast Asia to the Michelin-starred fine dining experiences in Europe, every meal I’ve had tells a story. Some flavors transport me back to childhood memories, while others push me outside my comfort zone and introduce me to new culinary adventures. Now that Chicago Restaurant Week 2025 has come to an end, I’m reflecting on my ambitious goal of trying a restaurant a day—sometimes even doubling up, like on January 24 when I visited two in one day to make up for a skipped Sunday. If you follow me on Instagram Stories, you’ve probably seen snapshots of my food adventures along the way—because let’s be real, some meals just deserve to be documented in real-time—#PhoneEatsFirst, right? Or, if you missed them, check out my highlight reel under #CRW2025. I’m reflecting on a daily journey of flavors, surprises, and unforgettable dining moments.
My Journey as a Restaurant Connoisseur & Culinary Identity
As a self-proclaimed restaurant connoisseur, my passion for food goes beyond just eating—it's about understanding flavors, appreciating techniques, and immersing myself in the stories behind each dish. You could say I’m a bit of a Culinary Dropout—not in the sense of failing at food, but in embracing the untraditional path of exploring flavors, cultures, and dining experiences in my own way. I never graduated from culinary school, but my love for food has been shaped by personal experiences, travel, and a relentless curiosity about what makes a dish truly unforgettable.
I like to think of my palate as both refined and adventurous. I chase balance—bold umami depth, fresh acidity, layers of texture, and unexpected pairings that make a dish unforgettable. Whether it’s a beautifully executed sear on a steak, the delicate dance of flavors in a well-balanced cocktail, or the comforting umami of a beautifully executed ramen broth, I appreciate thoughtful and intentional food.
While I have a deep love for Asian, Mediterranean, and fusion flavors, I’m also constantly looking for new surprises—unexpected ingredients, reimagined classics, and dishes that tell a story about the chef behind them. Some of my all-time favorite dining experiences have come from the unlikeliest places, proving that great food isn’t just about fancy plating—it’s about heart, culture, and execution.
What to Expect in This (Un)filtered Culinary Series
Over the next few weeks, I’ll be dining at some of Chicago’s best (and maybe most underrated) spots, participating in Restaurant Week 2025. Every day, I’ll share my experience, covering everything from ambiance to service to the dishes that left a lasting impression. My reviews will go beyond the basics of ‘good’ or ‘bad’—I’ll break down flavors, textures, and the overall dining experience to give you the most immersive foodie insights.
Some of the themes I’ll be exploring include:
Fine Dining vs. Casual Eats: Which restaurants truly make Restaurant Week worth it?
The Best Bang for Your Buck: Where can you get the most value and best portions?
Unexpected Standouts: The hidden gems that pleasantly surprised me.
International Flavors in Chicago: The best global cuisines featured this year.
The Most Hyped Spots: Do they live up to the buzz?
Best Desserts: Because every great meal deserves a sweet ending.
Let’s Talk Food!
This journey isn’t just about my experiences—I want to hear from you! What are your favorite Restaurant Week spots? Are there any hidden gems I should check out? Drop your recommendations in the comments or connect with me on Instagram @msayunabilah—I also post food pics and behind-the-scenes moments on my Instagram Stories, so follow along for even more delicious content! to follow along on this culinary adventure.
Whether you’re a fellow foodie, a casual diner, or just here for the mouthwatering photos, I’m excited to share this journey with you. Let’s eat! 🍽️
