10 Years In, Neighborhood Gem Gather Continues to Live Up to its Name

by Ari Bendersky / Resy Chicago / August 1, 2023

Chicago is a city built on neighborhood restaurants. Ten years after owner David Breo chose an intimate space on Lincoln Avenue to open his first restaurant, Gather continues to draw crowds, from Lincoln Square and beyond. 

What accounts for its staying power? Gather quickly caught on due to its quality service (Breo held management roles at NoMI and Spiaggia) and comfort food fare that gently pushed the envelope. That was courtesy of chef Ken Carter, who previously held the role of chef de cuisine at Charlie Trotter’s. Their combined experience imbued the space with professional polish, while servers got to know the clientele, many of whom quickly became regulars. 

Dishes like whipped ricotta with clover honey and balsamic; crispy Brussels sprouts with candied pistachios and wispy bonito flakes; and a half chicken with a seared breast, fried leg, creamy polenta, and mushrooms — all of which have been on menu since the start — are executed at the highest level, and served with a smart collection of well-priced wines.

Carter has since moved out West, and new chef Aras Dailide (Joe’s Imports, Seattle’s How to Cook a Wolf) is building upon the already-solid foundation with a few of his own twists. And while Breo and his partners with Community Food + Wine Group continue to oversee it all, new managing partner Emily McDaniel executes the day-to-day operations.  Read more HERE