What Should You Know About Kasama Chicago? – Kasama Chicago stands out as one of the most exciting and influential restaurants in the United States right now. This hybrid bakery and modern Filipino restaurant in Chicago’s East Ukrainian Village neighborhood has captured national attention as the world’s first Michelin-starred Filipino restaurant — and it now holds two Michelin stars.
Whether you’re a Chicago local, planning a food-focused trip to the city, or simply curious about the best Filipino dining experiences in America, here’s everything you should know before visiting Kasama.
The Story and Concept Behind Kasama Chicago
Kasama, which means “together” in Tagalog, perfectly reflects its husband-and-wife chef-owners and its dual personality. The restaurant blends a casual daytime bakery and café with an intimate evening fine-dining tasting menu experience — all under one roof at 1001 N Winchester Ave, Chicago, IL 60622.
Opened in July 2020 during the pandemic, Kasama began as a neighborhood spot serving pastries and Filipino-inspired breakfast and lunch items. It later added a reservation-only dinner service that has become one of the most sought-after dining experiences in Chicago. The concept allows the team to maximize the space while offering two very different — but equally excellent — ways to experience modern Filipino cuisine.
Visit the official Kasama Chicago website for the latest details.
Meet the Chefs: Genie Kwon and Timothy Flores
Behind Kasama are acclaimed chefs Genie Kwon (pastry) and Timothy Flores (savory). Kwon brings world-class pastry technique and creative flavor combinations, while Flores draws from Filipino family recipes and fine-dining training to reimagine classic dishes with precision and elegance.
Together they have created something rare in American dining: a restaurant that feels both deeply personal and groundbreaking. Their work has helped shine a national spotlight on Filipino cuisine and its place in the fine-dining landscape.
Daytime at Kasama: Bakery, Pastries & Filipino Breakfast
From Wednesday to Sunday, Kasama operates as a counter-service bakery and café (9:00 AM – 3:00 PM, kitchen until 2:00 PM). Expect lines — this is one of the most popular breakfast and pastry destinations in Chicago.
The daytime menu features traditional Filipino breakfast plates (often called “silog” style with garlic rice and eggs), adobo variations, breakfast sandwiches (the longanisa version is a consistent favorite), and an outstanding selection of pastries.
Standout pastries frequently praised by diners include the famous truffle croissant, ube huckleberry Basque cake, and creative items like matcha pandan éclairs or ham and cheese Danishes. Pastries sell out quickly, so arriving early is highly recommended.
Counter service means you order at the counter and find a seat (or take pastries to go). Online ordering is available for pickup through their Toast platform.
Check current daytime menu and order pastries online
Evening Fine Dining: The Acclaimed Tasting Menu
Thursday through Sunday, Kasama transforms into a fine-dining destination with a multi-course tasting menu (currently priced at $325 per person, plus optional beverage pairings). This is the experience that earned Kasama its Michelin stars.
The dinner menu offers creative, modern interpretations of Filipino classics — think refined takes on adobo, sinigang, lumpia, kinilaw, and inihaw — often featuring high-quality ingredients and beautiful presentations. Desserts are equally impressive, with many guests receiving a signature Basque cake as a takeaway gift.
The setting is intimate and warm, with thoughtful service that complements the food. Because the menu changes with the seasons and ingredient availability, each visit offers something new while staying rooted in Filipino flavors.
Learn more about dinner reservations on the official site
Awards, Recognition & Cultural Impact
Kasama’s accolades are impressive and well-earned:
- Two Michelin stars (Excellent cooking) — making it one of only a handful of two-star restaurants in Chicago
- First Filipino restaurant in the world to receive a Michelin star (awarded in 2022)
- James Beard Award recognition
- Regular appearances on “best of” lists from Food & Wine, Eater, Robb Report, and more
- Featured in the hit FX/Hulu series The Bear
Beyond the awards, Kasama has played a major role in elevating Filipino cuisine on the national stage and inspiring a new generation of Filipino-American chefs and restaurateurs.
Read the official Michelin Guide entry for Kasama
Essential Visitor Information: Hours, Reservations & Tips
Current Hours (as of June 2026):
- Daytime (Bakery & Café): Wednesday – Sunday, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (counter service; kitchen closes at 2:00 PM)
- Dinner (Tasting Menu): Thursday – Sunday, reservation only
Reservations: Dinner reservations are released on a rolling 6-week calendar through OpenTable at 12:00 PM CST. They go extremely fast, especially for weekends. Cancellations within 48 hours incur a $325 per person fee.
Pro Tips for Visitors:
- Arrive early (before opening) for the best chance at popular daytime pastries and breakfast items.
- Set a calendar reminder for dinner reservations if you have specific dates in mind.
- Daytime is much more accessible and still delivers outstanding food and pastries.
- The restaurant is relatively small — expect a warm but efficient atmosphere.
- Street parking in the neighborhood can be challenging; consider rideshare or public transit.
Location and Getting There
Kasama is located at 1001 N Winchester Ave, Chicago, IL 60622 in the East Ukrainian Village neighborhood (part of West Town), just west of Wicker Park. It’s a charming residential area with easy access to other great restaurants and bars.
The neighborhood is well-served by CTA buses. Many visitors combine a Kasama visit with exploring nearby Wicker Park or Ukrainian Village.
Is Kasama Chicago Worth Visiting?
Yes — especially if you love exceptional food, appreciate thoughtful storytelling through cuisine, or want to experience one of America’s most important contemporary restaurants.
The daytime bakery and breakfast side offers fantastic value and easier access, while the evening tasting menu delivers a memorable fine-dining experience that justifies the price for special occasions or dedicated food travelers.
Kasama represents the best of what Chicago dining has to offer right now: creativity, hospitality, cultural pride, and consistently excellent execution. Whether you go for pastries and coffee or the full tasting menu, you’ll understand why this restaurant has become a true destination.
For the most current hours, menus, and reservation availability, always check the official Kasama Chicago website directly.
Plan ahead, arrive with an open mind and appetite, and enjoy one of Chicago’s most celebrated culinary experiences.