Food

How Chicago’s Avec continues to evolve while staying true to its roots

Chef Perry Hendrix is taking the iconic restaurant in new directions and into a large second space.

Avec has built a large following with its inspired small plates menu and welcoming vibe, or what chef Perry Hendrix refers to “as the dinner party you’d like to throw in your own home.” One of the first restaurants from Chicago’s One Off Hospitality group, Avec has occupied the same tiny space for 17 years. Hendrix transitioned the concept into a fast-casual rotisserie during the pandemic, serving up Middle Eastern-influenced roast chickens and sides. Right before Valentine’s Day, a second, much larger Avec opened in Chicago’s River North neighborhood. Listen as Hendrix talks about the iconic restaurant’s evolution, menu and future.

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