Aba ★9.7

Aba: Golden Hour Above Fulton Market

There is a moment at Aba, just before sunset, when the olive trees catch the light, someone tears into warm pita, and Chicago briefly impersonates the Aegean coast. That rooftop-terrace magic is why this Fulton Market restaurant remains the city’s default answer to “where should we go tonight?”

The Concept

Aba — “father” in Hebrew — is the 2018 sibling of Ema (“mother”), both from chef CJ Jacobson and the Lettuce Entertain You group. Jacobson, a Top Chef veteran, cooks the Mediterranean through a California lens: Israel, Lebanon, Turkey and Greece on the plate, sunshine in the styling. In its first year the Tribune crowned it the city’s best newcomer, and the reservation book has been crowded ever since.

What to Order

This is grazing territory: order more spreads than seems reasonable. The crispy short rib hummus and whipped feta disappear first, chased with muhammara and endless pita. Crispy chicken thighs and crispy potatoes are the comfort picks, lamb and beef kefta the smoky centerpiece, and the char-grilled lamb chops the special-occasion move. Save room for the crème brûlée pie — tables have been known to order a second.

The Space

A third-floor terrace wrapped in vines and potted olive trees, strung lights overhead and skyline views on all sides — less restaurant patio, more secret garden with skyscrapers. Inside, wicker, greenery and warm woods keep the vacation mood alive through a Chicago winter.

Who It’s For

Anniversary dinners, impress-the-visitors evenings, girls’ brunches on the terrace and anyone who measures a restaurant by its golden-hour photo potential — while still eating seriously well.

Good to Know

Do they take private events? Yes — an intimate chef’s table hosts up to twelve, while the adjoining Dalcy event space handles very large celebrations.

Is lunch worth it? A weekday lunch here is the calm way to get the rooftop without the evening crush.

What’s the dress code? Polished casual — terrace-chic sundresses and linen shirts fit right in; nothing formal required.

How do I get there and park? It’s an easy walk from the Morgan Green Line stop, and valet is available at the entrance.

No reservation — any hope? The bar seats walk-ins with the full menu; arrive at opening or late evening for the best odds.

Opening hours