Eating Out on Thanksgiving: Chicago

Thanksgiving dinner with wine at Bin 36 in Chicago.

In the City of the Big Shoulders — and big appetites — a restaurateur who delivers a Thanksgiving meal that is both pleasing to traditionalists and enticing to connoisseurs has certainly invented the proverbial better mousetrap. And that is why a delightfully diverse crowd beats a path to Bin 36 each Turkey Day, eager to see what chef John Caputo has cooked up.

Caputo's formula is simple yet peppered with options: three courses are offered, each with its own trio of choices. Among the appetizers in his melting-pot menu, the chef prefers consommé with chestnut-filled tortellini, perhaps because it is a Caputo family recipe. The centerpiece (and hands-down favorite) of the meal is pear-glazed turkey with a bevy of vegetable accompaniments, all served family style. For dessert, pumpkin makes an appearance in a pithiviers (a round, often scalloped pie).

As its name indicates, Bin 36 is an eatery with a strong wine orientation. Oenophiles will be excited to see the by-the-glass selection of fifty wines and the recommended pairings for each food offering. Service from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. $40 for adults; $19 for children under twelve. 339 North Dearborn Street; 312-755-9463; bin36.com.

Written by William Rice