Jimmy Bannos, Jr.

Years of Participation

As a fourth-generation restaurateur and James Beard Foundation Rising Star Chef 2014 recipient, Chef Jimmy Bannos, Jr. brings his love for Mediterranean food to Chicago in fun, inventive ways—at this rustic, sharable plate restaurant, conveniently accessible from the Magnificent Mile. Located at 500 North Michigan Avenue, the restaurant offers dishes showcasing the flavors of Italy, Spain, and Greece, the latter of which is Bannos’s family heritage. Since opening in 2009, under the leadership of Bannos, The Purple Pig has received numerous accolades, including being named one of 2010’s 10 Best New Restaurants in America by Bon Appétit magazine; is a multi-year Bib Gourmand recipient from the Michelin Guide Chicago; among other honors.