Classic American comfort food with a Bucktown twist is what’s on the menu at AMK Kitchen Bar, and this hip, bustling, diner-via-loft space is guaranteed to be your newest crush this Summer.
With their open-air, street-side garage door that transforms the restaurant into its own patio overlooking Armitage Avenue, AMK Kitchen is about as charming as can be. Oozing modern vintage style, the space is a mix of old nostalgia (think: checkerboard floors and counter stools) and urban cool (exposed brick and street art abound).
It’s a neighborhood gem that brings Bucktown’s edge back a bit. The artist community that has been slightly overwhelmed with the stroller set recently, now has a haven for the young, mod folk in the neighborhood that are looking more for Dorito pie and poutine than fast casual or fine dining.
We kicked things off with cocktails, naturally. A sazerac for him and an old fashioned for me. The drinks were expertly poured and served with those big, blocky ice cubes that just make me giddy. Nothing better than a cold, strong drink that stays cold and fabulous. With a beverage down the hatch and the warm glow of the café string lights above me, I was feeling fine and ready to embark on some tasty morsels.
The dinner menu is eclectic and plays off home-cooked favorites with a composed, contemporary twist. Expect dumplings with fresh herbs and squash, and fried chicken with roasted garlic white cheddar mash, you know… the things that make your belly very, very happy. A huge standout for me was their award-winning mac ‘n cheese. Loaded with jalapeño and bacon and crispy, crunchy stuff, it’s no wonder the “Golden Noodle” resides here. DO NOT MISS this mac.
Another easy frontrunner, the burger. But not just any burger. This ‘AMK Burger’ is piled high with two patties, white American cheese, a horseradish dijonnaise, bacon (add as an option) and FRIED PICKLES. A soft brioche bun caps off the deliciousness that makes this one of the best burgers in the city. That’s right. It’s a phenom.
If you’re wondering where I’m going to be as our weather gets warmer, look no further. AMK Kitchen has the chops and the style to be an outright Bucktown crowd-pleaser, especially if you’re lucky enough to nab a top window seat. I’ll race ya!
AMK Kitchen Bar | 1954 W Armitage Avenue | Chicago | IL | 60622
Oh this space is gorgeous! I’ll have to check it out — that portrait of you by the window may be my favorite of all time. The lighting is killer!
Xoxo,
Ashley || Sed Bona
OMG — thank you, darling!!!! The whole vibe in there was killer — let me know when you want to check it out, would love to join you.