Please give me great places to stop for cocktails and appetizers that are hip and unusual (located in the city)

If you like wine, I would recommend Bin 36 or Cru. Bin 36 is located across from the House of Bulls and Cru is no North State (or is it Rush) - check Metromix.com for exact address.

Tru has a caviar staircase appetizer.
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg...50327?v=glance

wsoxrebel, I don't think you could just go and have appetizers there
www.trurestaurant.com

Swalter, you are usually so good with advice that I did a double take at your slip - it should be House of Blues, not Bulls! Very funny.

Cayman, head west for lots of intersting places with a young crowd - Blckbird, Nine, Redlight, Marche, etc. - all in the 500-800 blocks of West Randolph Street, a 10 minute cab ride from the heart of the Loop.

PatG-WHOOPS! A longing for the early 90's Jordan days subliminal slip-good catch! I agree that the West Randolph area is a good area too for interesting dining areas. There is also a relatively new wine bar in that area that's name escapes me right now. Anyone know it?

Maybe Randolph Wine Cellars? I have't been there, have you?

Yep, that's it the Tasting Room at Randolph Wine Cellars. I haven't been there but I've heard it can be quite the scene. It's at 1400-something west randolph.

Incognito, I see that you are right, thanks. It still tops my list of hip and unusual dining memories, not just in Chicago.