My siblings and I are planning a 50th wedding anniversary dinner in Chicago for our parents and about 20 other people this September. We are looking for an elegant restaurant with great food (not too loud) and if there is a view, even better. Any suggestions?

Chicago is replete with fine dining options. It would be helpful if you shared a few more details -- exg., type of cuisine, budget, etc.

Meanwhile, here's a link to an excellent forum devoted exclusively to dining in Chicago:

http://www.lthforum.com

Best of luck and congrats on your parents anniversary!

Congratulations to your parents on their 50th anniversary! Have they ever been to the Cape Cod Room? It has the old-fashioned glamour and history that might appeal to your group. Everest has delicious food and a view, but it's off the beaten path behind the Board of Trade building.

As the planner, you'll have more to consider than the food. Make sure the restaurant can accommodate guests with walking or vision problems and diet constrictions.

Also, consider a luncheon instead of dinner. This worked well for my parents' party, since many of their friends prefer not to drive after dark.

Some restaurants with old-time glamor:

These are great suggestions and I will definitely look into all these suggestions. Keep them coming!

First what are your budget requirements if any, because elegant can be elegant without being $$$$.

Would you consider doing this at a restaurant in one of the Museums. They do that now.

For instance, Soundings at the Shedd, with views of the lake.

The North Pond restaurant, tucked away actually IN Lincoln Park, has lovely views. With a group your size you are talking a private room, so I'm not sure just what views will be at any restaurant, but quiet shouldn't be a problem. Another thought, if it's a view you are after, is the 95th, in the Hancock Building--I've been to weddings there in private rooms and the views are incredible.

North Pond is lovely and romantic, but it is IN the park, down an uneven path. Guests will have no choice but to walk the path, a little less than a block, from the valet parking area. It is also somewhat confusing to find, so, regretfully, I wouldn't recommend it for a 50th celebration.

As an alternative, look at Ambria, which is nearby, in a lovely old hotel and right off of Lincoln Park West.

I agree with patg. If the sky is the limit, look into Everest. It's consistently one of Chicago's finest restaurants.

Any thoughts about the cruises in the city? I already looked into The Odyssey but they are booked for the 2 nights that are of interest for us but they have a brunch cruise available.

What about The Spirit of Chicago or Mystic Blue? Any thoughts? Anyone been on any of these? What about a brunch?

As far as money, I think in the $120 per person range is good, and none of the people being invited handicapped...most are about 68-78 yrs. old...not too old, yet.

Anyway, your responses are appreciated!