LINCOLN SQUARE — Luella's Southern Kitchen and Via Lima were among the repeats announced Wednesday on Michelin's increasingly stingy annual Bib Gourmand list.
In total, 52 Chicago restaurants earned a Bib Gourmand, down from 59 in 2015 and a further decline from the 69 recipients in 2014.
Spacca Napoli, a perennial Bib Gourmand honoree, was among the casualties, failing to make the latest list.
Often misinterpreted as Michelin's "cheap eats" designation, the Bib Gourmand acknowledges restaurants that provide good value for the money: two courses and a glass of wine or dessert for $40 or less, not including tax and tip.
Luella's Southern Kitchen, 4609 N. Lincoln Ave., opened in early 2015 and chef Darnell Reed has gained a following for his fried chicken, gumbo and beignets.
Via Lima, 4024 N. Lincoln Ave., features the Peruvian cuisine of owner Eni Cadena's native country.
Other Bib Gourmand repeats in the area: Smoque BBQ, 3800 N. Pulaski Road in Irving Park, and Angry Crab, at 5665 N. Lincoln Ave. in West Ridge, which has had run-ins with the city's health department of late.
Recipients of the coveted Michelin stars, which are handed out to fine dining establishments, will be announced next week.
Lincoln Square's Goosefoot and Elizabeth are likely contenders to retain their stars.
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