DebitNM

We are going to see Book of Mormon this Thursday evening at Bank of America Theater. Looking for a place to have dinner before the show. We are foodies, so looking for a good meal, not just a bite to eat. Any cuisine except Mexican. Suggestion would be most appreciated! Thanks~

DebitNM

Considering: Rosebud Theater; Vivere; Everest; Florentine. Input? Thanks~

bluestar

Last December, we went to Vivere after a theater matinee. I was hesitant to go to the Italian Village (3 Italian restaurants housed in one old building) because I'm not crazy about Italian but I was overruled by the other three people I was with. Vivere is steps away from the BofA Theater. This restaurant is the one on the street level and is the finer one of the three. I thought it was great, if pricy. The service was spectacular and could not be faulted in the least. The food is superb too, lots to choose from -- could be considered more Med/Euro cuisine than Italian. Best caprese starter I've ever had, their buffalo mozzarella is so creamy! I've never seen a more expansive wine list than this place has, it's like an encyclopedia. Look at their wine list and converse with the sommelier! The decor by Jordan Mozer is quite different -- sort of art deco meets 1990 meets Alice in Wonderland - but it works. There are some cozy booths along the wall as you enter, an upstairs balcony above the bar area and nicely spaced tables in the main dining area to the rear. This is where we were seated and I liked the room. P.S. Just a warning, the linguine calabrese is extremely spicy (I loved it). They use very hot peppers, scotch bonnets I think.

ChgoGal

Vivere is definitely a good option as bluestar mentioned.

Atwood Cafe is an idea... a bit further north of the theater, so you'll want to eat earlier to allow yourself ample time to get to the theater and have a few minutes before curtain to use washrooms, etc.
http://www.atwoodcafe.com/

I really enjoy my pre-theater meals at Trattoria No. 10 - again, a few blocks north so more time needed to walk to the theater, just so you aren't rushing. Have a great time!

http://www.trattoriaten.com/t10/trattoria/aboutus.html

DebitNM

I booked Vivere online using OpenTable. Trattoria No. 10 doesn't show availability; but I might call them as I know that sometimes they have availability that doesn't show online.

Any thought on which you'd recommend between the 2?

ChgoGal

You really can't go wrong with either. I'd choose Trattoria as I've been several times and had nice experiences; Vivere I've only been to once but that was fine, too. (I'm not much of a foodie, though... I'm happy when I'm with my pals anywhere.) I'd probably just stay with Vivere as it's nice and close. I saw the Chicago production of Book of Mormon about a month back, and we arrived about 5 minutes before curtain. Which was fine, but it's a bit nicer to get there a little early to settle in, read the program, buy a drink or snacks, etc. The ticket takers are good, but it's a swarm as you can imagine. Also, maybe bring a shawl as the theater is a bit chilly.

Have a great time!