The Story
Chef Jean Joho brought the flavors of his native Alsace to Chicago in 1986, opening Everest on the 40th floor of the Chicago Stock Exchange building. The name was apt: dining at Everest felt like reaching a culinary summit, with sweeping views of the city below and Joho's impeccable French-Alsatian cuisine on the plate.
Everest was the only Midwest member of the elite Relais & Chateaux association and Les Grandes Tables du Monde. It held a Michelin star and was named one of America's top restaurants by every publication that mattered. Joho's choucroute garnie and foie gras preparations became legendary.
Unlike many pandemic closures, Everest's end came down to real estate. 'The lease was up,' Joho explained. 'The building didn't want to renew.' After 34 years of serving Chicago's financial elite and visiting dignitaries, Everest served its final meal on New Year's Eve 2020.
🍽 Signature Dishes
Traditional Alsatian dish of sauerkraut with assorted meats, elevated to fine dining
Multiple preparations showcasing the chef's French training and Alsatian roots
💡 Did You Know?
- Joho started working in restaurant kitchens at age 6, peeling vegetables for his aunt
- At age 23, Joho was sous chef at a Michelin three-star restaurant commanding 35 staff members
- Everest was one of only 13 restaurants with a Mobil Five-Star rating at its peak
👤 Notable People
🏙 What's There Now
[VERIFY current status of 40th floor space]
Original Address: 425 S. Financial Pl. (40th Floor), Chicago, IL 60605