Discover Lilac Tiger: Wicker Park’s Unexpected South Asian Spot

It’s a place that offers beverages and, you know, food items to go with those beverages. You might expect things like burgers or maybe even a fried chicken sandwich. Yet, beneath what appears to be a local watering hole, there's a really special South Asian eatery that's putting out some truly imaginative and flavorful dishes. It’s actually, quite frankly, just a very good place to hang out, offering something a little different from the usual.

This spot, Lilac Tiger, is Chicago’s most recent team-up among three significant folks in the food and drink world. It’s a group actively working to create fresh and exciting eating chances in the city. This particular venture brings together Zubair Mohajir from Wazwan, Ty Fujimura from Arami, and Won Kim from Kimski. It’s a rather interesting mix of talents coming together to offer something new to the neighborhood, especially if you appreciate good food and a relaxed vibe.

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Table of Contents

• What Exactly Is Lilac Tiger?
• The People Behind the Place
• The Food and Drink Experience
  • Tasty Bites to Start
  • Main Dishes with a Twist
  • Unique Drinks to Try
• Coach House: A Hidden Gem
• How to Visit or Order
• Frequently Asked Questions

What Exactly Is Lilac Tiger?

Lilac Tiger, as a place, has a bit of a dual personality, in a way. On the surface, it seems like a straightforward neighborhood bar. You could walk by and think, "Oh, just another spot for a beer and some casual food." But that initial impression, you know, doesn't tell the whole story. It's designed to be comfortable and familiar, like a local hang-out, which it definitely is. Yet, there's a deeper layer to its identity, one that makes it stand out rather remarkably.

This establishment, in fact, is a South Asian restaurant that just happens to be disguised as a bar. It’s where you can get drinks, sure, but the heart of the place beats with creative and flavorful South Asian food. This approach is pretty unique, offering a blend that isn't commonly found. It really is a great place to spend some time, whether you're looking for a quick bite or a full meal, or just a spot to relax with friends. The atmosphere is casual, but the food is anything but ordinary, which is actually quite appealing.

It’s a spot that, apparently, replaced Wazwan in Wicker Park, bringing a new kind of offering to the area. Imagine a South Asian bar where you can enjoy momos, which are those delicious dumplings, alongside a good scotch. This combination, you know, might sound a little unexpected, but it works really well here. It’s about creating a space that feels welcoming while also pushing the boundaries of what a neighborhood spot can offer. This blend of comfort and culinary adventure is what truly sets Lilac Tiger apart, making it a very interesting place to check out.

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The People Behind the Place

Lilac Tiger is, essentially, the result of a team-up between some pretty big names in the food and drink scene. It’s not just one person’s vision, but rather a coming together of different experiences and ideas. This kind of collaboration, you know, often leads to something truly special because it brings varied perspectives to the table. The goal here was to create new and exciting dining chances for people in the city, and they’ve certainly managed to do that with this venture.

One of the key figures involved is Zubair Mohajir. He was a part of Wazwan, and his involvement here brings a certain level of experience and creativity. He’s known for his culinary skills, and his touch is definitely felt in the flavors coming out of the kitchen at Lilac Tiger. It’s his vision, in some respects, that helps shape the South Asian side of the menu, making sure it’s both authentic and innovative. His presence suggests a commitment to high-quality, thoughtful cooking.

Then there’s Ty Fujimura, who comes from Arami, another respected name in the restaurant world. His background, you know, likely contributes to the overall ambiance and perhaps even the beverage program. Bringing someone with his experience into the mix means that the attention to detail extends beyond just the food. It suggests that the entire experience, from the moment you walk in, is carefully considered. This kind of combined knowledge helps make the place feel complete.

And finally, Won Kim from Kimski also plays a part in this project. His involvement adds another layer of unique perspective to the collaboration. Kimski is known for its distinct style and creative approach to food, so his input probably helps to ensure that Lilac Tiger isn't just another restaurant, but a place with its own character and charm. The synergy between these three individuals, you know, is what really makes Lilac Tiger a standout spot in Wicker Park. They are, apparently, striving to create something truly memorable for diners.

The Food and Drink Experience

When you visit Lilac Tiger, the food and drink offerings are, actually, quite a pleasant surprise. It’s not just your typical bar fare, though you can find some comforting items. The focus is clearly on bringing creative and flavorful South Asian dishes to the forefront, which is a rather refreshing approach. They have drinks and things to soak up those drinks, like burgers and fried chicken sandwiches, but there's so much more to explore here, especially if you're open to new tastes.

Tasty Bites to Start

To begin your meal, you might consider something light and fresh, like the cucumber salad. It’s priced at $13.00 and has, you know, received some good comments, with 3 reviews and 2 photos available. This suggests it’s a popular choice for those looking for a crisp, cool start. A good salad can really set the tone for the rest of your meal, offering a nice contrast to richer flavors you might try later.

For something with a bit more punch, there are Indian tiger prawns. These come with 4 photos and 3 reviews, which indicates they’re a well-liked option. Tiger prawns, you know, often have a satisfying texture and can carry a lot of flavor, especially when prepared with South Asian spices. It’s a dish that seems to draw people in, offering a taste of something special from the sea.

Another interesting starter is the Sichuan calamari. This dish has 5 photos and 2 reviews, suggesting it’s a visually appealing choice. Sichuan flavors typically bring a bit of a kick, so if you enjoy a little heat, this might be a good pick. Calamari, prepared well, can be wonderfully tender, and the Sichuan spices would give it a really distinct character. It’s a good example of the creative blending of influences you’ll find here.

Main Dishes with a Twist

Moving onto the main dishes, the tiger prawn fried rice is a standout. It’s got 5 photos and 4 reviews, which means it’s a very popular item. Fried rice, you know, is a comforting classic, but adding tiger prawns and South Asian flavors likely gives it a unique twist. It sounds like a hearty and satisfying choice for a main course, perfect for someone looking for a flavorful and filling meal.

And for those who like something a bit more familiar, but still done well, there’s the fried chicken sandwich. This one has 4 photos and 5 reviews, making it another highly rated option. While it might seem like a typical bar food item, given the restaurant’s South Asian leanings, it’s fair to expect it has a special seasoning or preparation that makes it truly theirs. It’s a good choice if you’re looking for comfort food with a potential flavorful surprise.

Beyond these, the text mentions that the South Asian bar serves momos. Momos are, typically, a type of dumpling popular in parts of South Asia, particularly Nepal and Tibet. Offering these suggests a dedication to authentic flavors that go beyond the usual. They are often served with a spicy dipping sauce, and getting them here would be a nice way to experience a true taste of the region. It’s a detail that really highlights the restaurant’s commitment to its South Asian roots.

Unique Drinks to Try

The drink menu at Lilac Tiger is, quite honestly, just as interesting as the food. They have a selection of beers, like Old Style, 12 oz Chang Lager, 10.8 oz Singha Lager, and 11.2 oz Maplewood ‘Son of Juice’ IPA. These are, in a way, some familiar choices that help keep the bar vibe going. They also carry 12 oz Marz ‘Lilac Tiger’ Pale Wheat, which is actually named after the place itself, making it a rather special choice to try.

Other beer options include 16 oz Hitachino ‘White Nest’ Ale and 11.2 oz Azadi ‘Lassi’ Milkshake IPA, 16 oz. The ‘Lassi’ Milkshake IPA sounds particularly interesting, blending the idea of a traditional Indian lassi drink with a modern beer style. It’s a good example of how they play with flavors and concepts, offering something that’s both familiar and new. This kind of creativity is, you know, what makes their drink list so appealing.

Their cocktail list also has some very creative names and ingredients. There’s “I kinda like you” for $16, which mixes lemongrass shochu, baijiu, planteray 3 star rum, nigori sake, passion fruit, green tea, vanilla, coconut, and sparkling wine. That’s a lot of things in one drink, so it’s likely a complex and refreshing concoction. Then there’s “bring back lilac colada” for $16, with planteray 3 star rum, planteray pineapple rum, malort, toasted sesame, ube, cinnamon, pineapple, lemon, and coconut milk. This one sounds like a tropical delight with some unusual twists, especially the ube and malort.

For something a little different, you might try the “teeny ‘spresso ‘tini” for $7. And for those who enjoy a unique beer, there’s also the Marz ‘Lilac Tiger’ Rooibos Pale Wheat, 16 oz. This sounds like a beer with a tea-like flavor, which is a rather interesting combination. Finally, the “double chai daiquiri” for $15, made with planteray dark rum, chai two ways, paul john single malt whiskey, and lime, offers a warm, spiced take on a classic cocktail. These drinks, you know, truly show the inventive spirit of the place.

Coach House: A Hidden Gem

Just behind Lilac Tiger, you’ll find another special spot called Coach House. This place is, apparently, led by the acclaimed chef Zubair Mohajir himself. It offers a more intimate dining experience, which is rather different from the casual bar feel of Lilac Tiger. Coach House is designed to spark curiosity and joy through its food, creating a unique atmosphere for diners. It’s almost like a secret within a secret, offering a different kind of culinary journey.

Coach House, you know, blends a sense of nostalgia with bold South Indian flavors. This combination makes for a truly memorable meal. Guests are invited to engage with the creative process, either from the chefs’ counter, where they can watch the cooking unfold, or from the dining room. This interactive element adds another layer to the experience, making it more than just a meal. It’s about being part of the culinary art being created right there.

So, if you appreciate a more focused and perhaps even a bit more adventurous dining experience, Coach House is definitely worth exploring. It's a place where the flavors are big and the experience is personal. It's a good way, in some respects, to see another side of the culinary talent involved with Lilac Tiger, offering a deeper dive into Chef Mohajir’s particular style of cooking. It’s a very intriguing addition to the overall offerings at this location.

How to Visit or Order

If you're thinking about checking out Lilac Tiger, you can find it at 1742 West Division Avenue. This address is, you know, where all the magic happens. It's a place you can just walk into and enjoy the atmosphere, whether you're there for a drink or a full meal. Knowing the exact spot helps you plan your visit, especially if you’re new to the Wicker Park area. It's pretty straightforward to find, apparently.

For those who prefer to enjoy their food at home, you can also order online. The text mentions that you can order direct from the location, which is often a good way to support the restaurant and potentially get the best prices and service. This includes food, side dishes, and dessert items. Ordering direct, you know, often means a smoother process and ensures your money goes right to the people making your delicious meal. It’s a convenient option for a relaxed evening at home.

So, whether you want to experience the lively atmosphere in person or enjoy their creative South Asian dishes from your own place, Lilac Tiger makes it pretty easy. It’s a spot that truly offers something for everyone, from casual bar-goers to those seeking unique flavors. This flexibility, you know, makes it a very appealing choice for a wide range of people. You can find more details about their offerings and order options by visiting their direct site. Learn more about Lilac Tiger on our site, and for details on ordering, check out their online portal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Lilac Tiger just a bar, or does it have a full menu?

Lilac Tiger, you know, might look like a typical neighborhood bar from the outside, but it's actually a South Asian restaurant that also serves drinks. It offers both beverages and a creative, flavorful food menu, including dishes like tiger prawn fried rice and momos. So, it's much more than just a place for drinks; it's a full dining experience, which is actually pretty cool.

Who are the main people behind Lilac Tiger?

Lilac Tiger is a team-up between three notable figures in the hospitality scene. It’s a collaboration involving Zubair Mohajir, who was with Wazwan, Ty Fujimura from Arami, and Won Kim from Kimski. Their combined experience and creative vision, you know, are what make this spot unique. They’re actively working to bring new dining opportunities to Chicago, which is very exciting.

What kind of food can I expect at Lilac Tiger?

You can expect creative and flavorful South Asian food at Lilac Tiger. While they do have some familiar bar items like a fried chicken sandwich, their menu features dishes such as cucumber salad, Indian tiger prawns, Sichuan calamari, and momos. They also have unique drinks, including a Marz ‘Lilac Tiger’ Pale Wheat and inventive cocktails. It’s a blend of familiar and exotic tastes, offering a rather diverse selection.

A Spot Worth Discovering

Lilac Tiger, in Wicker Park, is truly a place that offers more than meets the eye. It combines the relaxed vibe of a local bar with the exciting flavors of a creative South Asian restaurant. The people behind it have put together something really special, bringing fresh ideas to the city’s food scene. Whether you’re looking for a casual drink, a unique meal, or even a more intimate dining experience at Coach House, this spot has a lot to offer.

It’s a place that, you know, encourages you to try new things, from their inventive cocktails to their flavorful South Asian dishes. The blend of influences and the quality of the food make it a compelling choice for anyone looking for something beyond the ordinary. So, if you find yourself in Wicker Park and are curious about a spot that’s making creative and flavorful food, Lilac Tiger is definitely worth a visit. It’s a very good place to just hang out and enjoy something truly different.