I will be in Chicago for my 45th birthday. Looking for recommendations for a nice, romantic spot that isn't over-the-top expensive (I would say $30 or less for entree max and preferably less). I do love Italian but open to suggestions. This is my first time to Chicago so something really "Chicago-y" might be fun

Posters such as exiledprincess, citylghts and others have detailed lists of great restaurants in Chicago you should check out.

For Italian (and we have tried a TON of them) - I like RoSal's in the Little Italy area and La Scarola. Both are in non-touristy areas if you want a real feel of Chicago.

RoSal's is like being in your Italian grandma's kitchen...very comfortable and relaxed, open kitchen, etc.

La Scarola is a lot of hustle and bustle - very lively. It's a fun time with great food.

I wouldn't consider either restaurant romantic, but they are both fantastic in terms of the food.

Happy Birthday!

Geja's for fondue is romantic and not too expensive. Great wine list too and a true Chicago classic. It just celebrated its 40th anniversary.
http://www.gejascafe.com/

If you want to go really Chicago-y, you can stay under $30, unfortunately deep dish pizza, hot dogs or Italian beef aren't really served in romantic spots.

Where will you be staying? You'll probably want something that's easily accessible to your hotel. You can check www.chicagoreader.com or www.metromix.com and search by price, cuisine or neighborhood.

For Italian, Italian Village on W Monroe has been around for eons. There's Rosebud on Rush or Carmine's (www.rosebudrestaurants.com) or Petterino's (www.petterinos.com). Tavern on the Park has outdoor seating in Millennium Park. If you'd prefer seafood, try Catch 35.

If you'll be here one of the evenings the Grant Park Symphony is playing, you could get a picnic dinner and eat on the lawn during the concert. Lawn seating is free, check www.grantparkmusicfestival.com for the schedule. Fox & Obel market, at 401 E Illinois near Navy Pier, caters picnic meals throughout summer (www.fox-obel.com). There is also a a Jewel Supermarket at 550 N State where you could create your own dinner from the deli or a Dominick's at 255 E Grand.

Thank you all. Will check out the symphony, that sounds fun!

Planning on eating lots of pizza and dogs as well while in town - Citylights, you have a favorite?

We dont have a hotel yet - waiting to priceline. Not sure where we will be staying yet.