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Chicago

Apolonia is praised for its exceptional Mediterranean cuisine, attentive service, and modern ambiance. Standout dishes include the Black Truffle Puff Bread, Shellfish Tagliolini, and Pistachio Ice Cream. The restaurant's location near the McCormick Place Convention Center adds to its appeal for both locals and visitors.

Apolonia - Contemporary Mediterranean Dining in Chicago's Near South Side District.

Nestled in the vibrant Near South Side neighborhood at 105 East Cermak Road, Apolonia is a shining star in Chicago's culinary scene. This contemporary restaurant offers an exquisite Mediterranean-inspired menu that delights food lovers with its inventive takes on classic flavors. From savory Black Truffle Puff Bread to the delicate Shellfish Tagliolini, every dish is crafted with precision and a modern flair. The airy, minimalist space, complete with an open kitchen concept, invites diners to savor both the food and the lively atmosphere. Whether you're planning a date night, a girls' night out, or a special occasion, Apolonia delivers a memorable dining experience with attentive service and an excellent wine and cocktail selection.

Apolonia’s menu showcases a tempting array of Mediterranean flavors with highlights that have earned rave reviews from locals and visitors alike. The Black Truffle Puff Bread, topped with fragrant truffle sauce and Parmesan, is a must-try for truffle lovers. Seafood aficionados will appreciate the octopus de Bourgogne and the shellfish tagliolini, celebrated for their rich, balanced flavors. The Pistachio Ice Cream dessert has fans dreaming well beyond the meal, offering a perfect combination of crunchy textures and sweet, creamy delight. Complement your meal with their expertly crafted espresso martinis or a robust wine pairing chosen from their extensive list.

The restaurant’s spacious and modern design features an open kitchen that connects guests to the culinary action, while subtle touches like carpet under the tables soften the acoustics, ensuring a comfortable dining environment. The vibe is minimalist yet warm, making it an ideal spot for intimate dinners or group celebrations. Service is consistently praised for being friendly and attentive, contributing to an overall positive dining experience. While the restaurant does not have outdoor seating, it offers a welcoming atmosphere for children and groups, making it versatile for various occasions.

 — Apolonia accepts reservations conveniently through OpenTable and by phone, ensuring your spot is saved for a special meal.

 — Street parking is available for guests, complemented by valet parking options for added convenience.

 — For those eager to explore a variety of flavors, Apolonia offers a tasting menu showcasing chef's specialties.

 Yes, Apolonia accepts reservations through OpenTable and by phone.

 Yes, there is street parking available, and valet parking is offered.

 Yes, Apolonia offers a tasting menu featuring a selection of the chef's specialties.

The community buzz around Apolonia is overwhelmingly positive, with diners praising the restaurant for its exceptional Mediterranean cuisine, modern ambiance, and attentive service. Signature dishes like the Black Truffle Puff Bread and Pistachio Ice Cream frequently receive glowing reviews, while the location near Chicago’s McCormick Place Convention Center makes it a popular choice for both locals and visitors seeking a sophisticated dining experience. Whether you’re in town for an event or a night on the town, Apolonia promises a delicious and memorable meal.

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Located at 105 E Cermak Rd in the vibrant Near South Side of Chicago, Apolonia is a contemporary restaurant that showcases a delightful blend of international cuisine. With a focus on fresh ingredients and innovative dishes, Apolonia has quickly become a favorite dining destination for both locals and visitors alike. Whether you're looking for a casual lunch or a special dinner, this restaurant offers a warm atmosphere and a menu that caters to a variety of tastes.

Apolonia prides itself on offering a diverse menu that features a range of delicious options, perfect for any palate. Highlights include:

Perfectly cooked steak served on a flavorful bed of sauce.

A tasting menu that allows guests to sample a variety of dishes.

Signature dishes like the Mediterranean Branzino and Harissa Spiced Lamb Skewers.

Conveniently situated in the Near South Side neighborhood, Apolonia is close to several popular attractions, making it an ideal stop for those exploring the area. Nearby landmarks include the iconic McCormick Place Convention Center and the scenic Lake Michigan waterfront. Whether you're attending an event at McCormick Place or simply enjoying a day out in Chicago, Apolonia offers a perfect dining experience to complement your visit.

Contemporary restaurant spotlighting international cuisine & a robust wine list in an airy space.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzMjVpb3ZnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJO2tjG1ctDogRTyaf6oWJ1ak/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzMjVpb3ZnRRAB

Espresso martini was divine! We did the hummus app as well and they even gave us extra pita. It’s a heavier hummus but worth every bite. Had the steak and was cooked to a perfect medium rare on a bed of sauce. Service was good and the restaurant was cute!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQza1oyT1VREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJO2tjG1ctDogRTyaf6oWJ1ak/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQza1oyT1VREAE

WOW! What an incredible restaurant. On a girls night out, we each got the tasting menu simply because everything looked outstanding, along with the wine pairing. My friend who doesn’t eat red meat, they were happily able to swap some of the dishes with alternatives like mushrooms in the sausage pasta. The entire minimalist vibe and open kitchen concept was unique with my favorite part being the carpet under the tables to minimize the volume of the spacious restaurant. Each dish felt perfectly thought out and was extremely delicious! Im still dreaming about the pistachio ice cream!!! Perfect for a date night, girls night or special occasion! I wish they had a small table or purse hooks to place your purse or jacket during dinner, especially when it gets colder in the year.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNIOG9TYmdBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJO2tjG1ctDogRTyaf6oWJ1ak/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNIOG9TYmdBRRAB

Came in for lunch on a holiday, and they seemed very understaffed. I won't complain much about that and the interactions we did have with staff were good.

Food was not as good as I'd expected. The broiled oysters lacked flavor despite the chili butter, and the crab tagliolini (was previously a scallop dish) tended towards sour rather than highlighting the crab flavor. Salad was ok but sizes of components were too disparate. Bread was good, but how can you go wrong with fresh bread and truffle and oil? Overall the flavors were not there and I didn't eat anything that I would reorder among the five dishes I had.

The only dish I didn't think needed reworking is the half roast chicken. I may return to try their signature pasta but not anytime soon.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM3N3ZtRTdBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJO2tjG1ctDogRTyaf6oWJ1ak/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM3N3ZtRTdBRRAB

This is a lovely restaurant! Overall food was good and the service was great.

- Yellowtail crudo: Not particularly memorable. Flavor is okay and the cherry didn’t really enhance nor conflict with the yellowtail flavor
- Roasted Mussel Toast: Mussel was great on top of the toast, heavy on the tomato-paste flavor but with the bread was chewy and crunchy altogether
- Fiorentini al Sugo: Pasta is very chewy and the meat chunks taste like Italian sausage. Also quite heavy dish
- Mediterranean Branzino: Fish is very tender and has a crispy layer of skin, very well charred and overall just balanced.
- The Pistachio: There’s the gooey cake layer combined with the pistachio ice cream and crunches of pistachio nuts, my main thing would be that it’s too sweet
- Black Truffle Puff Bread: Definitely one of my favorite. Fragrant truffle sauce with Parmesan cheese on top of a crispy airy puff bread
- Harissa Spiced Lamb Skewer: Lamb is tender and delicious. The tzatziki sauce has bits of dill and got the perfect balance of acidity and refreshing taste
- Octopus de Bourgogne: Amazing flavor, the butter sauce with chunks of octopus that tops the bread is such a perfect combo
- Yogurt Marinated Chicken: Love the char flavor and crisp of the chicken and acidic taste of quinoa, but the chicken itself was a little dry

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURIa1lUSUJ3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJO2tjG1ctDogRTyaf6oWJ1ak/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURIa1lUSUJ3EAE

Found the ambience little to open, not a cozy felt like an aquarium . Enjoyed the food especially the octopus.  Both pasta we tried were very nice but lacking presentation . Parking was very difficult, eventually parked in the convention center/ arena few blocks down

Apolonia Restaurant: Modern Dining in Chicago's Near South Side

Apolonia is a contemporary Mediterranean restaurant located in Chicago's South Loop neighborhood, near the McCormick Place Convention Center. The restaurant is known for its modern design, featuring high ceilings and abundant natural light. The menu, crafted by Chef Stephen Gillanders, emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients and Mediterranean flavors.

Apolonia: A Modern Mediterranean Gem in Chicago's South Loop District.

Nestled in the vibrant Near South Side of Chicago, Apolonia has swiftly become a beacon for lovers of contemporary Mediterranean cuisine since its inception in 2022. Located conveniently at 105 East Cermak Road, just steps away from the McCormick Place Convention Center, this eatery blends modern elegance with culinary excellence in an airy setting that boasts soaring ceilings and natural light flooding the space.

A Journey Through Apolonia's History and Rise to Recognition

Apolonia opened its doors in 2022, marking its arrival in Chicago's bustling South Loop neighborhood with a vision to bring fresh, seasonal Mediterranean flavors to the city's dynamic food scene. The restaurant’s design emphasizes a minimalist yet inviting ambiance, making it an ideal destination for everything from date nights to group dinners.

In the same year, Apolonia earned prestigious recognition by being awarded the Bib Gourmand distinction from the MICHELIN Guide. This accolade celebrates restaurants that provide exceptional quality and value, highlighting Apolonia’s commitment to delivering a memorable dining experience without compromising affordability.

Culinary Excellence Led by Chef Stephen Gillanders

At the heart of Apolonia’s success is Chef Stephen Gillanders, whose innovative approach to Mediterranean cuisine emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced locally whenever possible. The menu is thoughtfully curated to showcase a harmonious blend of traditional Mediterranean flavors with contemporary techniques, appealing to both purists and adventurous foodies.

 that highlight the best of Mediterranean cuisine.

 with high ceilings and ample natural light that creates a welcoming environment.

 recognized by the MICHELIN Guide’s Bib Gourmand for outstanding value and quality.

Why Apolonia is a Must-Visit for Modern Food Enthusiasts

Apolonia’s blend of contemporary design and thoughtfully prepared Mediterranean dishes makes it a standout destination for Chicago’s food lovers, digital nomads, and travelers seeking an authentic yet modern dining experience. Whether you’re craving expertly crafted cocktails, a robust wine list, or a delicious brunch, Apolonia provides an inviting atmosphere that caters to a variety of occasions and tastes.

Discovering Apolonia means embracing the spirit of Chicago’s Near South Side while savoring the vibrant, sun-kissed flavors of the Mediterranean in a setting that feels both fresh and timeless.

 including date nights, group gatherings, and special celebrations.

 recognized by renowned culinary authorities.

 in the bustling South Loop neighborhood, perfect for both locals and visitors.

Dine In

Takeout

Restroom

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Lunch

Serves Brunch

Serves Dinner

Serves Dessert

Good for Groups

Apolonia, a culinary gem nestled in the vibrant Near South Side of Chicago, captivates the senses with an enticing blend of flavors and inviting ambiance. The warm, welcoming décor creates a cozy nook that feels like a cherished secret amidst the urban bustle, inviting guests to linger and savor every moment. With a menu that draws inspiration from diverse cultural influences, diners can expect delightful surprises like savory pierogies and sumptuous risotto. This is a place where community is celebrated, and flavors tell stories, encouraging guests to return again and again.

Apolonia

Apolonia offers a contemporary Mediterranean dining experience with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Their menu features a variety of starters, mains, and desserts, each crafted with attention to detail and flavor.

Black Truffle Puff Bread

Roasted Mussel Toast

Yellowtail Crudo

Fiorentini al Sugo

Shellfish Tagliolini

Grilled Branzino

Pistachio Ice Cream

Chocolate Tart

Apolonia Menu

Apolonia menu overview in chicago near south side location offers a contemporary mediterranean dining experience with fresh seasonal ingredients perfectly crafted for every palate.

At Apolonia, start your meal with an array of sophisticated starters that awaken your taste buds. The Black Truffle Puff Bread is a must-try, featuring flaky puff pastry infused with aromatic black truffle, garlic, and topped with rich parmesan cheese for a decadent beginning. The Roasted Mussel Toast combines plump mussels with a bold Calabrian butter sauce on crunchy toast, delivering a delightful texture and flavor contrast. For a fresher option, the Yellowtail Crudo offers delicate yellowtail paired with sweet grapes and a pepper gastrique that creates a balanced and refined starter.

Main courses showcasing mediterranean flair and fresh seafood

The mains at Apolonia highlight the essence of Mediterranean coastal cuisine. Savor the Fiorentini al Sugo: chewy fiorentini pasta enveloped in a smoky tomato sauce with spicy chili oil and hearty pork sausage chunks for a satisfying, robust dish. The Shellfish Tagliolini elevates classic Italian pasta with delicate blue crab meat and sprinklings of bottarga, delivering layers of oceanic flavor and a silky texture. For fish lovers, the Grilled Branzino stands out with its tender fillet accented by marinated olives, fresh dill, and caramelized fennel, creating a perfectly balanced and elegant plate.

Irresistible desserts and refreshing drinks to complete your meal

End on a sweet note with Apolonia’s indulgent desserts. The Pistachio Ice Cream offers a creamy, nutty delight that balances sweetness with rich pistachio flavor, while the Chocolate Tart provides a luscious cocoa experience with a buttery crust and smooth filling. Complement your meal with their curated selection of cocktails, coffee, wine, and beer, all served in the restaurant’s airy, minimalist space perfect for date nights, girls’ nights, or special occasions.

Special menu highlights and guest favorites

 – a fragrant starter with puff pastry, black truffle, garlic, and parmesan cheese that’s a favorite for its rich aroma and texture.

 – hearty fiorentini pasta with pork sausage in a smoked tomato and chili oil sauce delivering bold Mediterranean flavors.

 – perfectly charred fish paired with marinated olives, dill, and caramelized fennel for a tender, flavorful main.

 – a luscious dessert featuring creamy pistachio flavor and crunches of nuts that leaves a lasting impression.

Savor authentic flavors at Apolonia in Chicago's Near South Side! Indulge your palate with our exquisite dishes. Join us today!

Apolonia: Authentic Dining in Chicago's Near South Side

Cook County

A curated selection of the chef's specialties, offering a comprehensive dining experience.

Tasting Menu

A selection of wines paired to complement the tasting menu.

Wine Pairing

Apolonia: Modern International Dining in Chicago's Near South Side District 

Nestled in the vibrant Near South Side neighborhood of Chicago, Apolonia invites food lovers to embark on an unforgettable culinary journey. This contemporary restaurant boasts an airy, minimalist space accentuated by an open kitchen concept, perfect for guests who appreciate watching skilled chefs craft exquisite international dishes right before their eyes. Whether you're planning a special date night, a lively girls' night out, or a memorable family gathering, Apolonia offers a unique dining experience that seamlessly blends refined flavors with an inviting atmosphere.

Delectable Offerings and Signature Experiences

Apolonia is celebrated for its thoughtfully curated tasting menu priced at $65, which showcases the chef’s specialties and offers a comprehensive introduction to the restaurant’s international flavors. For an enhanced experience, guests can indulge in a $35 wine pairing that perfectly complements each dish, elevating your meal with expert-selected varietals.

 include the tender Mediterranean Branzino with its crispy skin, the richly flavored octopus de Bourgogne topped with a luscious butter sauce, and the indulgent black truffle puff bread that's a fragrant delight. Don't miss the pistachio ice cream dessert — it's a creamy, nutty treat that guests rave about long after their visit.

Reviews frequently highlight Apolonia’s attentive service and the relaxed yet stylish environment. The minimalist decor emphasizes spaciousness and tranquility, with thoughtful touches like carpeted floors that soften noise, creating an intimate experience even in the airy dining room. While some visitors find the open layout less cozy, the innovative design allows diners to fully enjoy the artistry of the open kitchen.

 – the tasting menu and wine pairing make it ideal for celebratory dinners or girls' nights out.

 – enjoy expertly crafted espresso martinis, a robust wine list, and a full cocktail menu to accompany your meal.

 – suitable for children with a welcoming staff and accommodating atmosphere.

Located at 105 East Cermak Road in Chicago’s bustling Near South Side, Apolonia offers both dine-in and takeout options, making it convenient for a casual meal or a special night out. The restaurant serves lunch, brunch, and dinner, ensuring you can enjoy their vibrant menu any time of day. Parking is available with both free and paid street options nearby, though guests sometimes find parking a challenge during busy times.

Apolonia accepts credit and debit cards, as well as NFC payments, catering to modern convenience. While the restaurant does not have outdoor seating or live music, its style and food more than compensate with a memorable dining experience. Reservations are recommended to secure your spot at this popular destination.

Illinois

Experience exceptional Mediterranean cuisine at Apolonia in Chicago. Enjoy our tasting menu and award-winning dishes today!

Apolonia: Chic 5-Star Restaurant in Chicago

Discover unique dining experiences at Apolonia in Chicago’s South Loop. View our exquisite menu and make your reservation now!

Explore Chicago: Dining at Apolonia

Learn about Apolonia, a contemporary Mediterranean restaurant in Chicago, celebrated for its ambiance and diverse menu options.