The Best Dishes Eater Chicago Editors Ate This Week: August 22

The editors at Eater Chicago dine out several times a week, if not per day, which means we’re always encountering standout dishes that deserve time in the limelight. Here’s the very best of everything the team has eaten this week.

Uni rice from Mister Tiger in West Town

At a time when large restaurant groups dominate the scene, Mister Tiger’s success as a family-run venture feels especially refreshing. The Korean spot opened in West Town earlier this year and has distinguished itself as one of the city’s best newcomers. The menu balances homey staples such as japchae, chive pancakes, and spicy tofu stew with more luxurious options like uni rice — which I ordered on a visit this past week. A bowl of sizzling rice comes beautifully topped with uni, tobiko, kimchi, pickles, and veggies. Mix it all up for a comforting side dish that has layers of flavors. Even my dining companion, who is usually staunchly opposed to leftovers, agreed to take what little remained home. Pair the rice with the woodae galbi for a most memorable combination. — Jeffy Mai, Associate Editor, Eater Midwest

Guacamole tatemado from Matilda in River North

When is guac not just guac? When it’s the guacamole tatemado at Matilda, a new Mexican Peruvian spot in River North. I’ve tried the avocado dip in nearly every way imaginable, even prepared tableside, but Matilda still somehow surprised me. A fire-roasted avocado has its pit removed and is stuffed with ají amarillo and pico de gallo. It arrives at the table in acevichada sauce with herb ash, and the server mashes everything down to a smooth spread. Accompanied by house-made chips, the dish offers a playful, creative twist on a classic — an approach found throughout much of the menu. It’s a fantastic starter, and you shouldn’t let the straightforward description keep you from ordering it. — J.M.