You want fries with that.

Captain Nemo's

Captain Nemo's is my new favorite sandwich place. They've got all the great Chicago classics; like Italian Beef, but also some surprising choices like "Mexican cheese mess". (OK, that's not it's name, but it should be.)

For me, the highlight is the chili. Deeply spicy and thick, I predict it will get me thru the upcoming winter. There's even a vegetarian version, so I don't have to feel quite so guilty when having it.

We stop at the one clear out on Ashland, out where it's known as Clark, not too far past Addison. They have other locations too, but this one has plenty of seating and a handy parking lot.

Blue Line

The Blue Line, located underneath the Damen Ave stop on the, um, blue line elevated train, is an intriguing place. The interior decoration evokes a dinner club, and the menu is filled with appealing and fun-to-read descriptions. The staff is friendly and just-right attentive, and the "Absolutely Nutty" martini is worth a repeat visit by itself. While you're there, try out the fried olive appetizer. Yes, I know, but trust me it's unique and tasty.

However, the downside of the Blue Line is that it is rarely open. There are no posted hours, and on many subsequent attempted-visits we've found it locked up tight. There are lots of other nearby restaurants and bars in the area, and they're open when the Blue Line is shuttered, so its losing out on business. In fact, we've now found it closed more often than open, which means we'll likely soon just stop trying. What a pity.

Salpicon

Best. Restaurant. Yet.

Oh? You want details. Well, Salpicon is located at 1252 N. Wells and you're likely to be greeted by the friendly co-owner, Vincent Sakoff, when you arrive. It serves authentic, and very creative, contemporary Mexican food.

It's a medium-sized place with good lighting and festive and interesting artwork on the walls. (Check out the interior shots at the website.) I seem to remember a large and excellent wine list, but I only gave it a glance because the impressive Tequila list was calling my name instead.

We had a few appetizers, my favorite was the fried squash blossoms. They looked sort of like chile poppers, but were much more interesting in flavor and texture.

I had the delightful Chuleta de Puerco en Manchamanteles for my entree, which Gale says I selected because it was the longest title on the menu, but it was really the Oaxacan chile ancho mole that sealed my choice. My dessert selection was the standout of the evening, however, it was a chile infused lime sorbet served with a healthy covering of Tequila. Wow! Imagine a spicy, cold, alcoholic burst of flavor and you'll have just an idea what this tasted like. Hard to describe, and everyone in my party agreed it was like nothing they've tasted before.

Special thanks to our friend Eugene for selecting this place; it's one we'll revisit again soon. Hmmm, perhaps tonight?