 BellyQ Restaurant Review: Bill Kim’s highly anticipated haunt, a partnership with Cornerstone Restaurant Group and Michael Jordan, opened its doors in the West Loop. And by the looks of things, you’d never know One sixtyblue --- the address’s previous occupant --- existed. Asian barbecue is the focus, and the cocktail program comes courtesy of Peter Vestinos, though tap wines and craft beers are also on hand. Offering communal dining and more intimate tables, the open, loft-like space features seating with infrared grills for sizzling your own meats and vegetables, such as Korean short ribs and spicy lemon grass salmon. Tea-smoked duck arrives pink atop Chinese broccoli with plush buns, while marinated, namesake beef --- grill-charred and tender --- takes on hints of smoky-sweetness. The real standout, however, is the kimchi and double-smoked bacon pancake, a commingling of textures and flavors. For dessert, go for the soft serve. Vanilla “citrus ice” features yuzu tapioca pearls. There’s a karaoke room, too, along with companion carryout venture BQ2GO that’s open for lunch.
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