2011 Restaurants of the Year

United States

Sixteen, Chicago

Located on the 16th floor of the new Trump hotel in Chicago, this superb restaurant has a wall of glass that affords an unforgettable view of the Wrigley Building. Our meal included one of the most delicious servings of prime rib we’ve ever had, thanks to the skill of Executive Chef Frank Brunacci.  

Gautreau’s, New Orleans

Off the beaten track in a townhouse at the western edge of the Garden District, this local institution has a charming small dining room with striking trompe l’oeil decoration. Chef Sue Zemanick is an exceptional young talent.

Europe

Mistral, Stockholm

Chef Fredrik Andersson’s refined and visually beautiful cuisine makes a trip to his friendly dining room mandatory for visiting food-lovers. Offering seasonal, locally sourced produce whenever possible, his menu changes constantly. However, we will long remember a main course of roast veal with seared onions, an herbal jus, milk “skin” and crisply fried nettles in brown butter with pike roe.  

Bar Boulud, London

Situated in the basement of the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park—a venue that is much lighter and more spacious than it might sound —Daniel Boulud’s wonderful bistro serves classic French comfort food, just steps from Harrods and Harvey Nichols.   

Rest of the World

Canoe, Toronto, Canada

From a vantage point atop Toronto’s TD Bank Tower, diners enjoy some of the finest views in the city. And the food hits equally impressive heights. Chef Anthony Walsh relies on Canada’s ample larder and serves an imaginative menu with conspicuous style. Precise service and a notable wine list make this a restaurant of the first rank.  

Ciya Sofrasi, Istanbul, Turkey

Located in the lively waterfront Kadiköy district, this is a simple, friendly place. Chef Musa Da?deviren enjoys an international reputation for showcasing Turkish regional cuisine. Highlights of our last visit were roasted lamb with garlic and bulgur pilaf, and a succulent kebab, accompanied by a thick blackberry drink. (Ciya Sofrasi does not serve alcohol).