Lamar Moore of etc. on His Favorite Spots in the City

Lisa Futterman

August 11, 2025

Lamar Moore bends over a table in an apron smiling next to a Chicago Chef Picks graphic

South Side native Lamar Moore leans into the American South at his new restaurant, etc. Credit: Provided

Get more recipes, food news, and stories at wttw.com/food or by signing up for our Deep Dish newsletter.
Every month, people from Chicago's hospitality industry share recommendations for food, drink, ingredients, and more as part of our Chef Picks series.

Chef Lamar Moore opened etc. in the South Loop in November, 2024, and the South Side Chicago native becamea James Beard Award semifinalist for Best Chef: Great Lakes soon after. His colorful menu at etc. leans heavily into the food of the American South, with dishes like fried green tomatoes and Mississippi smoked catfish dip served with fried saltines.

Chef Moore, 43, has been cooking professionally for over 25 years, including recently at Bronzeville Winery, where he served dishes like tiger shrimp ceviche. (Try his recipe here.) He named his new restaurant, the first where he is an owner, etc. for “experience, taste, and cocktails.”

Here are his picks for favorite Chicago spots.

Favorite Restaurant

Ramen-San

Favorite Dish

Fried Rice

Favorite Place to Drink

Lazy Bird

Favorite Place to Shop

Bloomingdale’s

Favorite Local Chicago Brand

Joe Freshgoods

Favorite Place in the City to Bring an Out-of-Town Guest