yes, that's the place. Eaten there a number of times before or after Steppenwolf.

Knife and Tine hasn't been open that long. Also, it's up on Fullerton, not right by Steppenwolf.

Re: Bavette's - I'd try reserving by phone not online. Specifically mention request is for your birthday. I'd do it asap. If they won't allow, you have sufficient time to consider alternative.

BTW, have you ever gone to or looked at the Gilt Bar?

Gilt Bar tends to be very noisy. Prefer Maude's as mr_go suggested.

Is the Gilt Bar the one in the alley, sort of behind Frontera Grill? No. We found it, but too early to open.

No, that's probably Three Dots and a Dash.

I only mentioned the Gilt Bar because the proximity to Bavette's. OK, struck out again...

Maude's is out in the West Loop on Randolph (west of the River). However, if you are willing to go out there....

I'm going to put money on this one, NP! And if this isn't it, I give up! RM Champagne Salon on Green Street. It's cozy and romantic, it's swanky, they've got lovely patio seating, the exact ambiance I believe you want and it's got a cheese and dessert cart.

I just checked and Bing (search engine) has a 360 view of the place which you can pull up pretty easily. Take a look, let me know.

Re: Topolobampo, if that's still on your list. We went there a couple of months ago for dinner (I've been a few times prior to that). I like the food and the service is outstanding. But I'm not sure I'd call the atmosphere all that "romantic"--just general lighting, proximity of other tables, etc. There were families there, business groups, etc. I'd go back anytime, but wouldn't necessarily choose it for a romantic meal.

We've been to Bohemian House once (late last year) and really enjoyed it--would like to get back there sometime.

Can't speak to those on your list but can give another vote for David Burke's Primehouse. One of the best meals I have had in a long time.

OK, exiledprincess, RM Champagne Salon does look GREAT! I can't see the menu is terribly exciting but if it's really good. . . And I must admit the rabbit cassoulet has my name all over it. I love the champagne cocktail list (more fun that just champagne). And yes, LOVE the cheese selections. It took me a bit as I thought that main pic was the interior -- I was trying to imagine "industrial shabby chic" as "swanky", but then I searched and found interior shots -- Yes, the outdoor spot also looks fun too, but love those small candlelit tables with tablecloths inside.

Really going to have to think about this -- but even if that isn't the birthday night, it looks great.

Yea, sorry. I know I'm being one of those "pain in the ass" posteers looking for some sort of illusive "perfection".

To others -- how "quiet" and "swanky" is David Burke compared to other steakhouses? Spacious "private" tables?

If you are going to be in that area, Maude's Liquor Bar is around the corner from RM on W. Randolph.

Piccolo Sogno has a wonderful patio for dining:

http://piccolosognorestaurant.com/

David Burkes is really not swanky or that quiet. I can't compare except to the Chicago Prime in my burb which is more subdued and quieter but DB's may not fit the bill. Maybe Mastros instead.

NP, you're alright! Frankly, it is an outright pleasure to discuss these possibilities with you. To be honest, I get a little discouraged in that so many of the inquiries nowadays are pertaining to not only budget travel - but "just-squeaking-by" travel. What kind of real suggestions for dining can you make with that type of restraint?

The biggest hurdle that I've had to consider in giving you suggestions is the limited area. You will have a lot more choices once you get out of the tourist zone, which also happens to be some of the highest-rent districts. You know the drill - high overhead requires in big turnover, very close tables, etc.

I'm really glad to see that you are "expanding your horizons" in Chicago. Maybe someday in the (perhaps) near future, I can lure you and Peter out to the outlying neighborhoods. Lots of fine choices for dining and entertainment there.

For example, take a look at The Bedford in Wicker Park. Drinks at The Violet Hour. Or Two on the near West Side. I like Chez Joel Bistro. A Tavola in West Town. If you ever get up to my old neighborhood, perhaps Bar Pastoral or Wood.

BTW, I've always wanted to ask: Since you are so into theatre, do you ever read up on the Jeff (Joseph Jefferson) Awards before you come to Chicago?

My son is sales director for the Chicago edition of Dining Out magazine and has spoken well of this place

http://www.chicagocutsteakhouse.com/

Thanks, exiledprincess.

I have read (by bumping into online) Jeff Awards, but usually our trips are so short and often there really aren't many choices for theatre anyway. Particularly in the summer, once we eliminate the big house musicals (which I'll see on Broadway, rather than a tour), and all the improv and comedy club things, there are often not many other real THEATRE selections left -- particularly in the summer. With Peter and I traveling together for a short weekend one show -- usually a matinee -- is about all we have time for as we'd rather do nice dining in the evenings. Pre-theatre dinners are too early, rushed, and often spoil our appreciation of shows anyway.

Oh, sorry, I didn't mean to infer another performance for this summer - although I know you are going to Steppenwolf - but you sometimes come back in the autumn, too.

What brought up the question was my suggestion about my old neighborhood (Boystown area of Lakeview). I have just seen "The Apple Family Plays" at TimeLine - just down the street from Bar Pastoral, as a matter of fact. And "Inana" is the next performance (until July 26th as a matter of fact).

Anyway, productions at TimeLine have garnered a number of Jeff Awards - which brought me to my question to you.

Now, TimeLine is (perhaps?) moving to the Andersonville area of Chicago in the future. Which is another nice area to keep in mind when dining - although a cab would be most time-efficient way there and back from the "downtown".

See how my little warped mind works? Like a train - most often, derailed.

I know you really liked the Art Institute. Are you going back this time around? Looking at your above comments, I'd say no.

We'd like to sneak in a repeat visit to the Art Institute. I missed the miniatures and Peter who takes photos of lots of paintings, has a few specific ones he wants to do, plus we really rushed that one wing, after lingering too long with the Impressionists (is that possible?)

I've been to TimeLine a couple of times, and think that is where I saw a compelling play about a man on 9/11 who is at his "girlfriend's" place and of course, his wife will think he is dead -- so he and his girlfriend work to think about starting a new life together. It was a wonderful play.

Right acroos from the AI is a very nice restaurant, Russian tea time or tea house. If you don't want to have lunch they have a fab private tea blend. And I'm a coffee drinker. :)

I've been to Topolobampo and loved it. I especially liked the art work. There is a massive collection of Mexican art which I love. Food and service is great. It is generally crowded but strangly has a quiet but festive feel. I'd go back if I was ever in Chicago again.

OK, turnabout. We have a Lettuce Entertain you certificate to cover much of a special meal. What do you think of Everest for special meal -- on my birthday? Supposedly spacious and quiet. Past its prime? I know it's not trendy or cutting edge, but is it still a really nice CLASSIC sort of experience?

Tru is on the list as well, but I suspect just too "foodie" and "samples in special foam" type menu for us.

Most of the other places on the list probably wouldn't even use up the certificate for the two of us.