El Che Steakhouse & Bar - Chicago
John Manion spent his formative years with his family in South America, and he's used those experiences to carve an esteemed culinary career for himself in Chicago. El Che Bar is his fourth restaurant concept to date; it was preceded by La Sirena Clandestina as well as the now-shuttered Mas and Otra Mas.
With El Che Bar, Manion and partner/chef Mark Steuer (formerly of Hot Chocolate) have brought in an authentic Argentine wood-fired grill and cook meat, fish and vegetables in it. The menu is best described as South American with definitive Midwestern accents featuring local vegetables and meats. They're also doing hearty portions, so even though the presentations are fancy, diners are certain to leave satisfied.
The West Loop entry is also a popular stopover for happy hour, as guests pack the bar after work for Latin American takes on classic cocktails.