Ēma - River North

Had a client luncheon today at Ema.

Our table split 3 of the spreads w/house made bread (fried naan?)
Hummus - didn't get to try
Both the Charred Eggplant & Labneh were very good.

Most got kabobs, I the lamb & beef kefta. Overdone, decent flavor, good side of rice & Israeli salad

One ordered the lamb rigatoni and when set in front of her I knew I should have ordered that. Nearly a 1:1 lamb/rigatoni ratio, looked amazing, client kept nodding & mmmmming.

We sat down at Noon, restaurant was packed shortly thereafter. Beautiful day so sliding windows were wide open with breezes blowing through. Nice venue.

I don't think I'd go out of my way on a personal basis to return but prices were reasonable, service good and food good to very good. I see this client somewhat regularly so I do hope to go back and try the lamb rigatoni.

Ēma
74 W Illinois St
Chicago, IL 60654
http://emachicago.com/
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My wife and I are big fans of Ema. You need to order a little more broadly. The stracciatella, haloumi, lentil salad, nearly all the vegetable and seafood dishes are great. Place has a nice vibe, great food and probably the most diverse clientele I've encountered. Ran into the chef at Gourmet Fest over the weekend but they had just finished service so I missed out.