Great tapas restaurant with a marked gluten-free menu. Just check with your server about cross contact issues. I love the brussel sprout salad and the chirizo wrapped dates!
We were in Chicago for business. My friend has severe allergies, gluten, nuts, strawberries, eggs. We selected Mon Ami Gabi based on options for gluten free. We made reservation and arrived about 20 minutes early. Entrance to the hotel is gorgeous. Front desk was friendly and helpful. Making sure we parked at the correct valet location (there's 2 one for residence one for restaurant. They brought us to the bar while we waited for seating. Barkeep was very friendly and very efficient. We didn't wait more then 20 minutes for our table. We were seated and we ensured they were aware of the concerns for gluten and other allergens. Waiter already was aware thanks to OpenTable reservation, I'd added a comment so they'd know ahead. They were extremely considerate pointed out the dishes that are GF. We skipped an appetizer and ordered dinner. The wait staff were friendly without being overly. Food was delivered quickly and cooked to perfection. I ordered medium rare beef and my friend ordered salmon almondine(without the almonds). Food was flavorful and delicious. Not only was our server attentive but the other staff ensured we were comfortable, well taken care of, and had everything we needed. They cleared dishes and glasses quietly while you ate without being distributive and made sure the water glasses were always full. I'd highly recommend the restaurant if you're in the area. For a Thursday the place was Busy. Reservations highly recommended. A mixture of date nights, family dinners (with younger kids) special occasions. Some folks were dressed up others in flannels and it all worked.
I am so happy we stopped here for dinner. The staff were knowledgeable and so kind to me when I told them of my gluten and dairy allergies. Service was amazing and the food was sublime. I missed eating Italian for fear of cross contamination but they reassured me pasta were cooked separately. What a lovely place! I will be revisiting when I'm back in town.
Edit: Forgot to add, my husband got an Amaretto sour and he said it was the BEST one he's had.
Food is excellent, lots of gluten free options suitable for someone with celiac. Service is great, but it's very loud and overly crowded. Tables are extremely close and people are often yelling at each other, which isn't how I like to brunch. If you go early it's not as bad.
Boka - A Good Dining Experience with Some Limitations
Boka, situated in Lincoln Park, is known for its upscale ambiance and innovative menu. While the experience was pleasant, it fell short of the high expectations often associated with this Chicago favorite.
Food & Menu:
The menu, crafted by Chef Lee Wolen, presents modern American cuisine with some creative touches, including a few vegetarian and gluten-free options. One of our friends is gluten-intolerant, and the restaurant was able to accommodate this seamlessly, which we appreciated. While the food was well-prepared and enjoyable, it didn’t leave a lasting impression—good but not remarkable for the price point.
Ambiance, Accessibility, & Family-Friendliness:
Boka’s chic and serene interior makes it an appealing spot for an adult night out, but it’s not particularly suited for families with kids. Accessibility is a downside, especially when it comes to the restrooms, which could be challenging for guests with mobility needs, even though they were spotless.
Service & Valet:
The service was attentive and courteous, adding to the refined experience. We also took advantage of the valet service, which was $17 and cash-only—something to keep in mind if you plan to drive. While I didn’t try the wine and can’t comment on the pairings, the cocktail and non-alcoholic options looked appealing.
Final Thoughts:
Boka is a solid choice for a special occasion or an upscale meal in Chicago, with an elegant ambiance and good, accommodating service. However, given the price point and reputation, it didn’t quite achieve the “wow” factor. If you’re looking for a memorable, top-tier culinary experience, other Chicago spots may leave a stronger impression.
DinnerItalianOpen Late NightTake AwayVegetarian OptionsVegan OptionsPastaPizzaDairy FreeLunchDeliveryOutdoor SeatingKid FriendlyRestaurant
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Victoria Winslow
We chose this dinner spot for the gluten-free options and it did not disappoint! The service was friendly, we were seated right away on a Saturday night, and they had plenty of celiac-safe food options. The pizza was some of the best I've had. We'll definitely be back!
They were able to accommodate Celiac and had gluten free and vegetarian/pescatarian options! My dad also can't eat shellfish or pork and they could accommodate that as well. The atmosphere was great, and the servers were very well informed and attentive. I don't want to discourage anyone from trying this restaurant, some of the food wasn't exactly my taste, but I was also trying some new foods that I haven't had before. I really enjoyed the scallops and chocolate dessert pictured. The more important thing to me is I'm gluten free with Celiac and I didn't get sick, it's safe for those with gluten allergies!
We got Gallery. Exceptional food and unforgettable performances! Extremely considerate of our multiple allergies, gave different foods for gluten and fish-free options. The excavation dish was so unique and delicious! Of course the helium apple taffy and paint were quite the fun experience! Waiters were so nice in helping us take pictures.
I attended a baby shower held in the private back room of The Range. A delicious gluten free brunch buffet was served. Everything was hot and tasty. Especially loved the turnip omelets. I love trying new dishes. The service was spot on.
BrunchAllergen FriendlyDinnerOpen Late NightOutdoor SeatingVegan OptionsVegetarian OptionsDedicated GF FryerBeerCiderDessertsPastaLunchDeliveryTake AwayRestaurant
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Marcia Cooley
Went with our adult kids for birthday celebrations. Delighted that all the appetizers that needed bread were enjoyed by all with their toasted gluten free bread brought alongside the naan and sourdough. Even the delicious Truffle Bucatini was prepared with gluten free pasta. The Chicken Tikka Masala and Steak & Ale Pot Pies were amazing. Service was attentive and friendly. Wish we could have had a table in the small room next to the bar area instead of being right by the bar but it the end we thoroughly enjoyed our meals
Such a good neighborhood spot. My boyfriend and I went here twice on our week visit to Chicago. We appreciate that they took a lot of care for his gluten allergy.
Great service. A fun space with a classic Italian flare. Nice big tables for parties and welcome for families. The food was tasty with gluten free menu options and a decent vegetarian selection.
GLUTEN FREE BITES
GREAT patio space, service was quick and kind, which is what I needed.
Food was good, I prefer limes over lemons 🍋 salsas were great!
We loved it! Great service, great location. But mostly great food. We started with The Fava Beans w/Truffle, The Calamari which was cooked to perfection and The Arugula Salad.
Followed by The Bronzino Filet w/cappers, The Risotto w/ mushrooms-tomato-lobster bisque, and The “gluten-free” Pasta w/lemon sauce. The gluten-free pasta was amazing delicious! The Risotto was great too, but the Bronzino Filet was the home run dish.
Then we finished with tiramisu and a torta di ricotta, paired with espresso.
All three of us loved this place.
Celiac friendly
