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Kasama

Chicago

Filipino comfort food by day with an elevated tasting menu at night

Short history: When husband-and-wife Tim Flores and Genie Kwon first opened Kasama, it was as a humble (but delicious) Filipino-American bakery and café in the East Ukrainian Village. It was 2020, and so dining out was limited, but people raved over the pastries, such as black sesame macarons and rice bowls. Their backgrounds (him at Oriole and Senza and her at Eleven Madison Park and Bouchon Bakery) laid the foundation for something special. In 2022, they expanded into fine dining, with a modern take on Filipino recipes, and the kudos continued.

What's in a name: Kasama means 'together' in Tagalog.

Immigrant voices: Kasama explores what it means to be Filipino in America today. The daytime menu is all about traditional comfort food, such as longganisa sausage, chicken adobo, garlic rice and flaky ube croissants. The evening tasting menu is more elevated, equally personal and precise. Dishes like sinigang (a traditional soup) with wagyu, lumpia and kinilaw, a traditional raw seafood dish.

All about the options: Walk into the minimalist space with its long banquettes for a pastry or sandwich during the day. For the 13-course tasting menu at night, be ready to make reservations 45 days in advance. Pairing menus offer a non-alcoholic option and some allergies and dietary restrictions can be accommodated.

World recognition: The awards Kasama has received are not just for the food but as a signal to many that Filipino food, which has long been overlooked in fine dining, is a worthy seatmate at the global table. Need further proof of its street cred in Chicago? Kasama had a brief appearance on The Bear.

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