RJ and Jerrod Melman, sons of Lettuce Entertain You founder and chairman Rich Melman, finally opened a restaurant to call their own. Hub 51, aptly named for its location at 51 W. Hubbard Street, offers a diverse menu punctuated with snarky commentary, like "the customer is usually right" and "no espresso ... Starbucks is down the block."
With quirky touches like a beer tap in the hostess booth and spy cams in the bathrooms so you'll never miss a minute of what your date is up to back at the table, Hub 51 serves up a dynamic atmosphere to pair with its eclectic dining options.
Whatever you're hungry for, Hub 51 has it covered: sushi (with rolls priced between $9 and $15), tacos ($14 to $18), or Chilean sea bass ($24). However, if it's thin-crust pizza you're in the mood for, the Melman brothers advise you to "go directly to Pizzeria Via Stato" (also a Lettuce business) for their favorite pie.
Everything seems to pair perfectly with Hub 51's featured cocktail on draft, the Hub Punch (Grey Goose Le Citron, Cazdores Reposado tequila, Licor 43, and pomegranate). The lower level lounge (dubbed Sub 51) doubles as a private-party space.
Average cost: $10-$20
Centerstage Reviewer: Abbey Gillespie