Jimmy Bannos Opens Big Easy in Chase Tower

Two weeks ago the food blogs were all a-twitter that Rick Bayless stealthily opened a downtown location of his O'Hare-based Tortas Frontera. But what we all somehow missed was that it was just one of a few places that opened. Another big one? Jimmy Bannos' Big Easy opened in the Chase Tower urban market, alongside Masala by Marigold and Mrs. Levy's Deli.

Big Easy opened about a month ago as a take on Bannos' Heaven on Seven with more focused choices. Diners can choose from five entrees like habanero chicken jerk etouffee, sauteed andouille sausage with peppers and onions, and jambalaya. All entrees are $5 a piece, but add sides like smothered lima beans, red beans, dirty rice or mac and cheese and it's $6.50 for one side added, $8 for two. You can also get a muffaletta or gumbo. Not bad for a quick lunch in the Loop.
· Tortas Frontera in the Loop [~EChi~]