panzano

Just saw that it will be cold and rainy in Chicago when I will be there. I have tickets to Wicked and was wondering what the dress is like for the theatre in Chicago. I didn't want to bring another coat and high heels if I don't have to
I noticed in London going to the theatre is much more casual than in NYC. Wasn't sure of how it is in Chicago.
Thanks!

Also, Any ideas for dinner in the area? It's my birthday the night we are seeing Wicked!

hppycpl

I think I've worn black pants and a nice blouse/sweater every time I've been to the theatre in Chicago. You will definitely find women decked out in dresses & furs, but you'll find people in nice jeans too. I think Chicago is a pretty casual town, especially because of the weather. Have fun!

patg

For a special occasion, try Nick's Fishmarket (walking distance) Everest, Naha, NoMi or Le Lan. See metromix.com for reviews and other information.

panzano

Thank you for the input on everything!
The restaurants look amazing. I am looking into them now.

exiledprincess

Aria at 200 N. Columbus (in the Fairmont) is a very short cab ride from the theatre.

susan3649

Most of those above recommended restaurants are events in themselves. Don't think you'll want to attempt the theater and the Everest Room in the same evening. You don't need to dress up for the show, though.

JJ5

The WLS radio station just had a special night re dinner before the theatre. Roe Con, the host, had on, among other venues, the bar-tender from Petterino's. This restaurant really deals with the dinner/ theatre crowd thing. He just won the best bartender award here.

If you are not looking for a multi-hour or very high end dinner, I would suggest Petterino's. You could walk to the theatre from there.

Also ones, I have used as well are Aria, 312, Trattoria #10. They all work great for the theatre. Trattoria #10 is downstairs, quiet, private, and they have great butternut squash ravioli and good wine choices.

patg

Everest has a pre-theatre menu, and others may as well. All the restaurants I mentioned are within a mile and a half of the theatre.

harry506

panzano,

If it was my birthday, this is what I would do... Spend the day shopping on Michigan Ave (since this IS your special day . Have full tea mid-afternoon at either the Ritz or the Four Seasons (both are in that area: the Ritz is in Water Tower Place, Four Seasons is in the 900 N. Michgan building (with Bloomingdales)). This should hold you thru the show. AFTER the show I would then grab a cab for a short ride to Avec (615 W. Randolph). It's had a lot of national write ups, but since it has a strict no-reservations policy, you don't need to worry about advance planning, or snagging a hot table. And the wait is never that long. Great casual setting and amazing food! The kitchen is open until midnight during the week, 1am on Friday and Sat.

Also, hppycpl is right, black pants and a nice sweater is perfect.

Hope you have a great time (will you post your experiences?), I saw the show a few months back and it was really well done.

panzano

There are too many great places to go! I am loving the Trattoria No. 10 from JJ5 because those ravioli's are my favorite!
I will let you all know where we end up.
Thanks!!!
High tea sounds like a great way to start for my b-day Harry506

panzano

I loved Wicked! It was such a great show. The clothing advice was perfect.
I ended up having the day to spend with my husband, so I never had high tea.
We had a great dinner at Trattoria No. 10 which was such an easy walk to the theatre. We ended up going back to the hotel after which was also an easy walk. The Renaissance was a great hotel and I highly recommend it.
Thank you to everyone for your advice