The Purple Pig Chicago

Nestled in the bustling heart of Chicago, just a stone’s throw from the iconic Magnificent Mile, The Purple Pig Chicago stands as a culinary beacon for food lovers. This beloved establishment, located at 500 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, has captivated diners with its unique take on Mediterranean-inspired small plates, inviting them into a world of rich flavors and convivial dining experiences. From the moment you step inside, you’re enveloped in a warm, rustic-chic ambiance, complete with exposed brick, communal tables, and an energetic buzz that promises an unforgettable meal. It’s the kind of place where laughter is as abundant as the delicious aroma wafting from the open kitchen.

Whether you’re planning a lively lunch with friends, a romantic dinner, or a celebratory gathering, The Purple Pig accommodates with flexible hours designed to suit your schedule. They are open Tuesday through Thursday from 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM, extending their vibrant service on Friday and Saturday until 11:00 PM. On Sundays, you can enjoy their delightful offerings from 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely weekend meal. Please note, The Purple Pig is closed on Mondays, allowing the team to prepare for another week of culinary excellence. For reservations, inquiries, or to learn more about their daily specials, you can easily reach their friendly staff by calling (312) 464-1744 or by visiting their official website at purplepigchicago.com. Prepare to embark on a gastronomic journey that celebrates the joy of shared plates and exceptional ingredients at this quintessential Chicago dining destination!

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Menu Highlights

The menu at The Purple Pig Chicago is a vibrant tapestry of Mediterranean flavors, designed for sharing and exploration. Each dish is crafted with an emphasis on quality ingredients and bold, approachable tastes. Here’s a glimpse into the culinary treasures awaiting you:

Spreads & Dips

Whipped Feta with Toasted Pistachios & Honey: Creamy feta, sweet honey, crunchy pistachios create a delightful, savory-sweet spread.
Smoked Eggplant & Ricotta with Crispy Pita: Smoky eggplant dip, smooth ricotta, perfect for scooping with warm, crunchy pita.
Pork Rillette with Pickled Onions & Crostini: Rich, slow-cooked pork spread, tangy onions, served with crisp, artisan crostini.
Tuna Conserva with Marinated Artichokes & Olives: Flaky tuna, tender artichokes, briny olives, a light and flavorful appetizer.
White Bean & Sage Hummus with Warm Flatbread: Creamy, earthy hummus, aromatic sage, a comforting dip with fluffy flatbread.
Spicy Calabrian Chili Oil & Garlic Confit: Fiery chili oil, mellow garlic, a punchy, flavorful accompaniment for many dishes.

Vegetables & Salads

Roasted Beets with Pistachio Vinaigrette & Goat Cheese: Earthy beets, nutty vinaigrette, creamy goat cheese for a vibrant salad.
Grilled Broccolini with Chili Flakes & Lemon: Charred broccolini, a hint of heat, bright lemon for a zesty side.
Shaved Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan & Truffle Oil: Delicate sprouts, rich cheese, aromatic truffle, an elegant, savory vegetable dish.
Heirloom Tomato Salad with Burrata & Basil: Juicy tomatoes, creamy burrata, fresh basil, a simple yet exquisite summer classic.
Wood-Fired Asparagus with Prosciutto & Poached Egg: Tender asparagus, salty prosciutto, runny egg for a luxurious starter.
Cauliflower with Tahini, Pine Nuts & Raisins: Roasted cauliflower, nutty tahini, sweet raisins, a surprisingly harmonious combination.

Seafood Delights

Grilled Octopus with Warm Potato Salad & Celery: Tender octopus, hearty potato salad, refreshing celery for a balanced dish.
Seared Scallops with Saffron Risotto & Peas: Sweet scallops, creamy saffron risotto, tender peas for a refined plate.
Mussels with Chorizo, Fennel & Tomato Broth: Plump mussels, spicy chorizo, aromatic broth, perfect for dipping bread.
Crispy Fried Smelts with Lemon Aioli: Small, flavorful smelts, perfectly crispy, served with a bright, zesty aioli.
Spanish Mackerel Crudo with Citrus & Herbs: Fresh, delicate mackerel, bright citrus, fragrant herbs for a refreshing taste.

Pork, Lamb & More

Pig’s Face with Fried Egg & Salsa Verde: Iconic dish! Crispy pig’s face, runny egg, vibrant salsa verde. A must-try.
Bone Marrow with Herb Salad & Marmalade: Rich, decadent bone marrow, fresh herb salad, sweet marmalade to cut richness.
Milk-Braised Pork Shoulder with White Beans: Tender, slow-cooked pork, creamy white beans, a comforting and flavorful dish.
Lamb Ribs with Harissa Glaze & Yogurt: Succulent lamb, spicy-sweet glaze, cooling yogurt for a balanced bite.
Spicy Pork Belly with Pickled Cherry Peppers: Crispy, fatty pork belly, bright pickled peppers for a delightful contrast.
Duck Confit with Lentils & Frisée Salad: Crispy-skinned duck, earthy lentils, bitter frisée for a classic, rich experience.
Beef Cheek Ragù with Creamy Polenta: Fork-tender beef, rich ragù, smooth polenta for a deeply satisfying, hearty meal.

Pasta & Grains

Housemade Gnocchi with Brown Butter & Sage: Pillowy gnocchi, nutty brown butter, aromatic sage for a comforting classic.
Orecchiette with Spicy Sausage & Broccoli Rabe: Ear-shaped pasta, savory sausage, slightly bitter greens for a robust flavor.
Saffron Risotto with Roasted Mushrooms & Parmesan: Creamy, aromatic risotto, earthy mushrooms, sharp Parmesan cheese.

Decadent Desserts

Olive Oil Cake with Whipped Ricotta & Berries: Moist, delicate cake, light ricotta, fresh seasonal berries for a perfect ending.
Ricotta Fritters with Amarena Cherries & Honey: Warm, fluffy fritters, sweet cherries, drizzled with golden, fragrant honey.
Chocolate Budino with Salted Caramel & Hazelnuts: Rich, creamy chocolate pudding, gooey caramel, crunchy hazelnuts for pure indulgence.
Fig & Almond Tart with Mascarpone Cream: Sweet figs, nutty almond tart, airy mascarpone, a delightful Mediterranean treat.

The interior of The Purple Pig Chicago exudes a rustic charm that feels both intimate and expansive. Dark wood, exposed brick, and warm lighting create an inviting atmosphere, while the lively chatter and open kitchen add an undeniable energy. The service is consistently attentive and knowledgeable, with staff expertly guiding diners through the extensive menu of small plates, making recommendations and ensuring a seamless experience. Pricing falls into the moderate to upscale range, reflecting the quality of ingredients and the culinary expertise, yet it feels entirely justified given the generous portions and the ability to share multiple dishes. The vibe is decidedly energetic and bustling, perfect for group gatherings, lively date nights, or a spirited culinary adventure, promising a memorable and vibrant dining experience for all.

In conclusion, The Purple Pig Chicago is more than just a restaurant; it’s a culinary journey and a social hub, celebrated for its unique approach to Mediterranean-inspired small plates. While every dish is a delight, their Pig’s Face with Fried Egg & Salsa Verde and the rich Bone Marrow with Herb Salad & Marmalade are legendary, often cited as must-try experiences that perfectly embody the restaurant’s adventurous spirit. This spot is an absolute haven for foodies, groups eager to share a diverse array of dishes, and couples looking for an energetic and flavorful date night. If you’re seeking a vibrant atmosphere, exceptional ingredients, and a menu that constantly surprises and delights, The Purple Pig is your destination. It’s a truly unforgettable dining experience that perfectly captures the lively spirit of Chicago’s culinary scene – highly recommended!

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