Seemor
The Purple Pig RestaurantB+Worth Trying
444 Michigan Ave Upper Level, Chicago, IL 60611
· Mediterranean restaurant, European restaurant, Greek restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (7283 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Creative Mediterranean-inspired small plates with standout pork, seafood, and pastas; excellent but bustling service in a lively room, premium pricing, and some inconsistency on pacing and seasoning.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
The Purple Pig delivers exceptional food quality with signature dishes like pork shoulder and octopus that earn consistent praise, paired with attentive, knowledgeable service. However, inconsistent execution—occasional oversalting and pacing variance—prevents grade A territory, while tight seating and crowding during peak hours limit the overall experience. A solid neighborhood destination for adventurous diners seeking bold Mediterranean plates and engaged service.
Restaurant Summary
Set just off Michigan Avenue, the room feels warm and bustling with a chef’s-counter view that turns dinner into a show. Guests praise personable servers and punchy flavors, with one noting, "the plates came out vibrant and confidently seasoned." It is a lively spot where service stays engaged even when the room hums. The kitchen leans contemporary Mediterranean with playful twists, pairing classics with creative touches like pistachio butter beets and harissa-laced seafood. Dishes arrive share-style as ready, so embrace the flow. If you enjoy bold, inventive plates and a dynamic vibe, you will likely leave happy. Families can make it work, but the menu suits adventurous eaters more than picky ones. While kids may enjoy simpler items like pastas or breads, there is no clear kids’ menu and portions are optimized for sharing. Expect a lively atmosphere rather than quiet family dining.
At a Glance
- Standout pork shoulder, octopus, bone marrow, and house-made pastas
- Knowledgeable, attentive service with helpful menu guidance
- Pricing is premium and portions are not family-sized
- Noise and tight seating during peak hours
- Occasional oversalting and pacing issues
What Sets It Apart
- chef_counter_show
- nose_to_tail_specialties
- mediterranean_with_twists
- prime_mag_mile_location
What People Love
- Deep, savory flavors and precise grilling
- Watching the open kitchen action
- Thoughtful dish recommendations from staff
- Memorable signatures like pork shoulder and octopus
Points of Concern
- Plates are shareable but not family-sized; expect to order multiple dishes for two
- Loud at peak times with tight seating; not ideal for quiet conversation
- Seasoning can run salty for some palates; doneness requests not always precise
- Service charge and sparkling water upcharge have surprised a few guests
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$70-95 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Start with roasted bone marrow ($20-28 range depending on preparation) and a vegetable like grilled broccoli ($17).
- Share one pasta ($26-31 mid-range) and one seafood/meat plate ($31-39) for balance.
- Ask for wine pairings noted on the menu (e.g., Chablis with tartare, Lambrusco with vegetables).
Perfect For
- Sharing a creative meal before or after the Riverwalk
- Date night with cocktails at the chef’s counter
- Business travelers seeking a lively dinner near hotels
- Food lovers chasing bold Mediterranean accents
Location Insights
Area: High-traffic shopping corridor catering to visitors and business travelers; upscale, energetic, and destination-oriented.
Safety: Busy, well-lit, high foot traffic; generally safe with standard downtown awareness.
Nearby: Near Riverwalk and architecture boat tours, flagship retail, hotels, and offices; strong tourist draw.
Magnificent MileThe Magnificent Mile is a bustling commercial corridor famous for luxury retail, high-end restaurants, and hotels. The dining scene is diverse, ranging from casual eateries to fine dining, catering to both locals and visitors seeking a premium urban experience.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–21:00
Tuesday11:00–21:00
Wednesday11:00–21:00
Thursday11:00–21:00
Friday11:00–22:00
Saturday11:00–22:00
Sunday11:00–21:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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