We're in Chicago 2-3 times a year, and for the last few years our first stop after checking into the hotel is "The Pig." Hidden down a little alley walkway off Michigan Avenue, this always busy little restaurant is easiest to visit between lunch and dinner.

We usually get 2-3 small plates from their seasonal menu (although some favorites repeat). This time we tried a "Smear" of pork neck bone gravy with ricotta ($12) and a small plate of pork saltimbocca w/ prosciutto, gigante beans, escarole, & white wine sauce.

Our wonderful waiter, Phil, matched our selections with two unique and superb wines, a Crotian 2012 Pilizota 100% Babić and a Spanish Toro region 2012 Nimanthia Termes (100% Tonya de Toro).

For dessert we choose another "Smear" or salt-cured Greek yogurt with apple preserves & pistachios.

Delicious and delightful.

Went for a late weekday lunch with a friend. It was not very crowded and we sat outside. There is a nice wine selection and they offer half bottles. We started with a cheese plate (try the Up in Smoke) and a half bottle of the Gavi (followed by a half bottle of the Vermentino, which I liked better). There is a choice of accompaniments with the cheese--the marcona almonds and honey one was especially good. We also shared the stuffed squid and the meatballs. Both delicious! Great service and a fun time.

Every time we visit Chicago, Purple Pig is a must.
Wide variety of food to share with nice combination of flavours.
We have tried almost everything in the menu!!
We would definitely recommend the grilled octopus, the calamari and fregola, the eggplant dip!
Service is really good.
You may have a rough time getting a table, be patient, try to arrive after regular lunch hour.
Enjoy!

I would recommend this restaurant for anyone who wants to try something different
/unique and pair with great wine! Loved their menu including dessert!

I would not have picked this place based on the name, but it was recommended by several people and the concierge at our hotel so we gave it a try. Glad we did. Very eclectic tapas menu perfect for sharing a few dishes. Had probably the best wine list for a restaurant in this price range than any I have seen. The service was excellent. It was busy but the wait was not bad (told 45 min, was actually 30 min) and well worth it. The calamari appetizer stood out (not fried, served cold, wonderful combination of tastes and textures). You will some SOMETHING that appeals to everyone. Definitely worth finding this place.