Elanor Bock

Elanor Bock

Chicago Contributor

Elanor grew up on relish-drenched hot dogs and pasta in the great city of Chicago. A dancer by training, she spent years hustling as a hostess, bartender, cocktail waitress, and server in Chicago and New York, where she met some of the grumpiest, most brilliantly talented people on the planet. She loves writing about — and eating and drinking with — the people in the industry. She’s a lover of simple, hearty food, and is completely devoted to black pepper. Her work has appeared in Resy and Thrillist, and she occasionally writes about dance and other stuff, too. She lives between Brooklyn and San Francisco.

Fun Facts

  • Lives
    Between Brooklyn and San Francisco.
  • Drink of choice
    A not-too-dirty gin martini, with an olive and twist.
  • Best high-low pairing
    Bud Light with a shot of fancy Tequila.
  • Your Ratatouille moment
    My mom’s special garlic noodles: boxed spaghetti, Kraft parmesan grated cheese, pepper, and salt. Chef’s kiss.
  • Most memorable bite
    The first time I had sushi as a teenager at an all-you-can-eat sushi spot in Chicago.
  • Favorite food city
    Chicago and NYC — don’t make me pick, ok?
  • Pro tip for diners
    Go out on a Tuesday and go early. You’ll almost always get a seat.
  • Last meal on earth
    Whatever is on the special pasta menu at this little restaurant called Meno, in Florence. I’d just drink whatever natural wine the owner, Massimo, will pour, lick the plate clean, and die happy.

Recent Posts


Monteverde spread

The One Who Keeps the BookChicago

How To Nab a Seat at Monteverde, and What To Order Once You’re In

No one does pasta like Monteverde does, and everybody seems to know it. The West Loop Italian charmer has cultivated…

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