We all know that dining out — especially fine-dining — has gotten more expensive. But sometimes those small artful plates on tasting menus, though pricey, get you more bang for your buck. This is your guide to some of the best tasting menus in the world, when traveling to a city for a meal is actually worth it. Alinea Location: Chicago Alinea is one of only thirteen restaurants in the U.S. to earn three Michelin stars, and for good reason. Nestled in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood, Alinea is the creation of Chef Grant Achatz. Inspired by quirky childhood experiences — like eating pickles wrapped in french fries — Achatz creates wonder and surprise through food. His modern American cuisine leans into playful presentations and unexpected flavor pairings. Think caviar served in the palm of your hand or a course plated on a roll of cloth instead of a dish. Even the dish names reflect his whimsy: Jacob’s , short rib with jameed and pistachio, or Fairy Tale, a playful mix of pumpkin, suckling pig, and spiny lobster. Alinea offers three ways to experience its tasting menu, depending on your budget and group size. Upstairs in The Salon, intimate tables of…