Flora Fauna

What could imply spring more than a place called Flora Fauna? Husband-and-wife team of mixologist Liz Pearce and chef Jonathan Meyer offer a global-rustic restaurant in River North inspired by their visits across Latin America, Southeast Asia and the Caribbean. Get your greens and antioxidants under the "flora" side of the menu: crispy fried mushrooms with pineapple rum mustard and jackfruit DanDan with chilled green papaya noodles. Stuff lettuce wraps around an array of choices from fried tofu to roasted halibut and various fried rice option range from roasted cauliflower to butter poached King crab. Try one of the Stone Bowls brimming with seafood, meats or garden items. Fruity cocktails and small batch sakes transport you to exotic locales. The tropical-themed, open loft design and large windows coax natural light year-round so it's sensory overload in spring. Happy hour specials and weekend brunch. too.