"The Bear," the breakout Hulu hit centered in Chicago, has been confirmed for a highly anticipated third season by FX.
While the network has not yet disclosed the exact release date, fans can expect Season 3 to drop sometime in 2024. This provides ample time for both catching up on Seasons 1 and 2 and exploring some of the renowned restaurants featured in the show.
Although the main restaurant in the series is a fictional creation, many of the eateries showcased throughout the seasons are real and, in some instances, hold iconic status within the city. One episode in particular offers a culinary tour of Chicago, as Chef Sydney, portrayed by Ayo Edebiri, embarks on a quest for menu inspiration.
Here's a rundown of the restaurants featured in the latest season of "The Bear":
Kasama: Recently honored with a James Beard Award for Best Chef - Great Lakes, Kasama, a Filipino restaurant located in Ukrainian Village, is the brainchild of a husband and wife team. It was the initial stop on Chef Sydney's culinary journey.
Avec and Publican Quality Meats: Situated in the West Loop, the Mediterranean gem, Avec, enjoys a significant spotlight in Syd's Chicago food adventure. She even engages in a conversation with owner Donnie Madia, who also owns the actual restaurants Avec and Publican Quality Meats, both of which are featured in the episode.
Lao Peng You: Another gem in Ukrainian Village, Lao Peng You is where Sydney indulges in signature noodles and dumplings, offering a delightful Chinese dining experience.
Giant: Despite its modest size, the Logan Square restaurant, aptly named Giant, makes a noticeable appearance in the show.
Pizza Lobo: Located in Logan Square, Pizza Lobo makes a cameo as Sydney grabs a slice of their renowned thin crust pizza for a quick bite.
Margie's Candies: In an episode aptly titled "Sundae," the delightful tour includes a visit to the cherished Margie's Candies, located in Bucktown. For over a century, Margie's has been delighting patrons with ice cream, milkshakes, candies, and more.
Pequod's: While not on Sydney's official tour, Pequod's Pizza receives a special feature as Richie Jerimovich, played by Ebon Moss-Bachrach, treats a disappointed customer to their favorite deep-dish pizza.
Ever: Richie's stint at the world-renowned "Carmy" restaurant brings him to Ever in Chicago, albeit in a fictionalized version for the show. The episode is filmed on-site at Ever, showcasing the restaurant's name on shirts, though Olivia Coleman's character does not actually work there.
Elske: Chef Sydney refines her menu ideas in the new kitchen at Elske, a well-regarded Chicago establishment. Chef David Posey expressed delight at having scenes from "The Bear" filmed at their venue, praising the show's meticulous portrayal of kitchen culture.
With Season 3 on the horizon, fans of "The Bear" have a lot to look forward to, both in terms of the show's continued narrative and the opportunity to explore these iconic Chicago eateries.
By Salam Bustanji
