Giant

Giant has been on my “must-try” list for a while, but after finally dining there, I genuinely think it deserves a spot on everyone’s Chicago restaurant list. Known for its creative Italian-inspired menu and bold flavor combinations, Giant in Logan Square delivers a memorable dining experience in the city.

We started with cocktails, including the Red Flag made with mezcal and citrus, which was bright, smoky, and perfectly balanced.

For appetizers, the Jalapeño Biscuit with maple butter was an instant standout—simple in concept but absolutely delicious, with a soft, buttery texture and just the right hint of heat and sweetness.

Next came the Crab Salad with Waffle Fries and the Fried Rice. The crab salad was fresh and light, while the waffle fries added a fun, savory crunch reminiscent of a “funnel cake” texture. The fried rice, served with shrimp, pork patty, salted black bean, and Kewpie mayo, was rich, crispy, and packed with umami flavor in every bite.

We also tried the Japanese Eggplant with pancetta, which was unexpectedly rich and deeply flavorful.

For pasta, we ordered the Bucatini with bacon, jalapeño, and anchovy along with the Sorralini with smoked tomato, guanciale, and pine nuts. The bucatini had a subtle heat from the jalapeño that balanced beautifully with the smoky, salty bacon and anchovy, while the sorralini stood out with its perfectly layered, savory tomato sauce.

To finish, we had onion rings served with aioli—simple but satisfying—before ending the meal with one of the highlights of the night: the Drunken Beef. Served with marinated vegetables and sauces, it was incredibly flavorful, with each component adding a different layer of richness that tied everything together.

Overall, Giant exceeded expectations in every way. From inventive cocktails and standout appetizers to perfectly executed pasta and entrées, every dish felt unique.

Giant: 3209 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL