deebers

We are heading to Chicago for three days next week and are looking for suggestions of happening places to eat. We really like Thai or Italian but are open. Thanks.

ChallengerGrey

How about Greek? Greek Islands has always been a family favorite. They have valet parking but there may be a bit of a wait to be seated at peak hours. It's worth the effort. Opah!

deebers

Thanks for the quick reply. My husband doesn't like greek. OOOps.

AAFrequentFlyer

Gibson's on Rush Street - http://www.gibsonssteakhouse.com/

mztery

heave on seven..best Louisiana cooking east of new orleans...my favorite spot in chicago!Been there many times...

http://www.heavenonseven.com/

Ackislander

I second Gibson's, but too bad your husband doesn't like Greek food because a Greek friend in Boston says the Greek Islands has the best Greek food in the US.

Marija

http://thepurplepigchicago.com/
http://avecrestaurant.com/
http://www.spiaggiarestaurant.com/cafe.html

gardendiva

For Italian, Volare on Grand. Yummy and reasonably priced.

deebers

Thanks so much for all the wonderful suggestions!!!!!! I love this forum.

Esme_Adores

Seconding Marija:

- Avec: cozy atmosphere (like entering one long sauna) with stick-to-your-ribs Spanish country food. The pork shoulder will produce an epiphany and although focaccia may remind you of your corner Cosi, you haven't had focaccia until you've tried it with melted taleggio cheese and truffle oil. Conducive to meeting other diners, which is half the fun.

- The Purple Pig. Cheese, pork and wine. 'Nuf said. Centrally located on the Miracle Mile. Outdoor seating with heat lamps. Staff that actually seem to enjoy their work, which makes the experience pleasant for everyone.

Esme also adores:

- Japonais. New Yorky-vibe renders it the perfect spot to impress out-of-town guests. No better place to hang in the summer than the outdoor deck, along the river. (Pleasantly) surprising prices relative to the atmosphere.

- If you're bound and determined (don't Google that at work) to hit the touristy Viagra Triangle (where N. State St. bifurcates into N. State St. and N. Rush St.), all is not lost: Luxbar is not all location, location, location: the sliders and fries are semi-addictive; Gibsons, as posted here, is a classic but can be a little self-conscious: nextdoor sister restaurant Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House offers the same quality of service and food at half the swagger.

- The revamped Pump Room. Can't opine on the food yet, but the place sure is pretty, and even if the food sucks, you will be very cool (not saying you aren't already) for having been one of the first to eat here. Oh, and the people-watching...Yay!

Esme abhors:

- GT Fish and Oyster. O-V-E-R-R-A-T-E-D. Good luck having a conversation here: I've been to less deafening rock concerts. And the food: meh. Slimey grilled caesar salad and anemic fried oysters.

Cadgirl

I agree with GardenDiva, Volare is awesome. My husband is super picky, and he loved it.

I went to Miller's Pub for the first time this summer. Thought it was pretty good. Have the ribs!

Chicagofan

Hub 51, Paris Club, Purple Pig, Publican and Mercadito are in places with good food.



http://chicagovisitor.net/

sarabaudo

I agree with GT Fish & Oyster being overrated! It's also my opinion about Gibson's.

Purple Pig, NoMi,Spiaggia, Mercadito, Next (if by some miracle you can actually get a ticket to make a reservation), Chicago Cut Steakhouse, Girl & the Goat, Avec, Blackbird, and Tru. If you are on the fly looking for a quick lunch, M Burger is always a great choice. Ask for the "secret" milkshake flavors.....they aren't on the menu. The butterscotch was awesome!!!!