Koda   

10352 S Western Ave
Chicago, IL 60643
773-445-5632

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Upscale Southwest Side neighborhood Beverly gets a boost with the arrival of its first-ever French bistro in an area where family-oriented restaurants dominate. But Koda, which boasts a contemporary atmosphere not commonly found around these parts, will surprisingly cater to those with kids as the neighborhood is filled with young and middle-age professional families. To show that they mean business, they've brought aboard French cuisine vet Aaron Browning (Brasserie Jo, Everest) to create a menu of classic and cutting-edge entrees that should get a positive response. He's especially proud of his appetizer menu, which includes a creamy, roasted corn and crayfish chowder, sauteed sea scallops with saffron risotto and a classic salad Lyonnaise. Entree highlights range from the heavier (braised sweet and spicy short ribs) to the lighter (sauteed Alaskan halibut with artichokes, confit tomatoes with pesto broth) side of the menu. Of course, there's a classic steak frites, and for vegetarians, he's included wild mushroom and pea risotto and a vegetable fettuccini. Koda gives big kudos to the area with the South Side chocolate souffle; while the wine list pays homage to French and American winemakers.