Exploring New Restaurants in Chicagoland: Da Local Boy, The Greggory, and The Radicle

Da Local Boy

Launching two years ago on the North Shore, Da Local Boy is the brainchild of Dianne Antonio and Nate Domingo, serving authentic Hawaiian platters. Their newest location in The Loop caters to commuters craving an affordable island experience. Opening in April, replacing the former Saucy Porka, they offer hearty dishes like pork belly and huli huli chicken cooked over a char grill, reminiscent of mom-and-pop island joints.

Hawaiian cuisine is enriched by indigenous Polynesian, Asian, North American, and European traditions. As Domingo explains, they modernize it with fusion street foods, featuring staples like loco moco and lumpia. The OG Plate ($19) is a must-try, with generous portions of huli huli chicken, grilled pork belly, rice, and macaroni salad. Domingo ensures the chicken remains juicy by marinating it for two days, then basting continuously during grilling. The macaroni salad, a Hawaiian lunch staple with Hellmann’s mayo, complements the savory meats perfectly.

A simple yet flavorful tuna poke bowl ($18) highlights traditional preparation with salt-enhanced flavor. Domingo explains their use of Hawaiian red clay salt to achieve a unique texture. For a tropical drink, try Hawaiian Sun juice ($4) or the fruity Lava Flow ($9) at the Highwood location, reminiscent of a resort drink.

Born from Domingo’s need to connect with Hawaiian roots while cooking local dishes, Da Local Boy’s culinary journey began with selling plates to coworkers. Their first Highwood restaurant opened in 2024. The new location offers quick counter service, catering to lunch hour downtown. The name ‘Da Local Boy’ honors both their young son and their cultural heritage, embodying Domingo’s upbringing and connection to Hawaiian traditions.

Contact Da Local Boy at 335 S. Franklin St., Chicago, 312-423-9957 or visit them at 320 Green Bay Road, Highwood, 847-748-8715.

The Greggory

Located in South Barrington, The Greggory offers a welcoming atmosphere, especially for families. Yanni Reglis, their attentive server, helped accommodate families, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. The restaurant’s co-owner, Gregg Horan, emphasized their aim to be accessible for regular diners and business gatherings, balancing family-friendly and professional environments.

Among their standout dishes, the 16-ounce stone axe wagyu strip stands out. Few traditional steakhouses cater to halal preferences without compromising the genuine steakhouse vibe, and The Greggory successfully does just that. The restaurant won a Tribune Readers’ Choice award for best suburban eatery, reflecting its potential to thrive in any major city.

With a focus on ingredient-driven cuisine, Chef José Sosa, alongside partners Horan and Bill Veremis, brings experience from acclaimed Chicago restaurants to the suburb. Their menu features delectable options like Gruyere popover rolls, and a crabmeat and avocado appetizer, perfectly paired with the wagyu steak.

The ambiance, attention to detail, and personal service make dining at The Greggory memorable. Though large in space, it’s intimate, with carefully timed service enhancing the overall meal experience. Concluding with a rich chocolate praline cake, diners will find each course thoughtfully crafted.

Visit The Greggory at 100 W. Higgins Road, Unit C1, South Barrington, or call 847-551-5740.

The Radicle

In Logan Square’s former Daisies spot, The Radicle draws from seasonal and sustainable influences, featuring dishes inspired by Italy’s Adriatic coast. Led by Executive Chef Joe Frillman, the menu includes thin-crust pizzas, a raw bar, and locally-focused beverages.

Diners can start with adventurous dishes like the fritto misto ($18), praised for its crispy seafood elements, or the refreshing asparagus salad. The rhubarb pizza ($26) playfully combines tang and sweetness with ingredients like guanciale and ricotta.

Frillman and his team utilize byproducts creatively, crafting delicious dishes at competitive prices. This technique reflects Italy’s cooking history, utilizing less-desired cuts creatively — a practice featured in their adventurous menu.

Beyond a cocktail bar, The Radicle embraces community interaction. New summer menus will introduce options like peach pizza and a sampler plate of raw offerings. Notably, a 20% service charge on dine-in checks simplifies tipping, promoting transparency in dining.

Find The Radicle at 2523 N. Milwaukee Ave., Logan Square, or reach them at 312-488-4069.