I'm planning on taking my husband for a surprise first anniversary get away to Chicago in July. I'm open to ideas for hotels and dining to make this a romantic, memorable weekend.

Hi--

If you like hotels (as opposed to inns or B&Bs) you really should stay at the Farimont. It's a larger hotel, but the rooms are lovely and the staff is great. Ask to overlook the water, it's quite romantic! Topolo Bompo is a terrific interesting Mexican inspired restaurant. No tacos here. A bit pricey, but foodies love it.
Enjoy!

Since I live in the Chicago area, I have no experience with area hotels, but I suspect that the Fairmont would be outstanding. The most romantic Chicago (or, for that matter, US) restaurant is, in my opinion, the Ambria.

For a real romantic, intimate dinner, go to Geja's Cafe -it's a fondue restaurant, by far the best one I've been to. It's not very far north from downtown, a cab ride won't bad. Food and service are great and prices aren't bad at all.

For a hotel, the Raphael is an intimate hotel at a surprisingly affordable price. The Whitehall is also nice and has an intimate atmosphere. My choice for a romantic splurge restaurant would be Everest. Located on the 40th floor of an office building in the South La Salle street area, nothing compares to the view and atmosphere as darkness falls and the city lights come up. Food is French Continental, chef is Jean Joho, service is impeccable. Expect to pay $200 for two depending on wine choice. Food at Ambria is good, but I personally find the atmosphere sort of blah.

I stayed at the Fairmount for a weekend in June and was very disappointed. We did not receive the promised turn down service the first night. After the first night, the maids removed our robes and did not replace them. I called the guestline the next morning and asked if housekeeping could bring us some robes. After waiting for an hour, I called again to ask what was taking so long. The person answering the guestline said she would look in to it. I waited a bit longer and still did not get robes. After my third call, I was transferred to housekeeping and the person answering the phone said "we don't replace the robes." I'm still waiting for my American Express bill to see whether they charge me for the robes. The Fairmount tries to be a luxury hotel, but the service does not even come close.

Here's MY suggestion for most romantic meal/settng in Chicago:

1) Find out what time the Cubs game is for that day...and head for Wrigley Field at least 2-hours before gametime.

2) Buy two bleacher seats (preferrably left-field).

3) Buy 2 hotdogs/2 beers (one for you, one for hubby).

4) Proceed to eat the dogs and drink the beer over the next 3-hours or so...of course, feel free to re-order these items from the sommelier....er, beer vendor/hot dog man, as the afternoon progresses.

I swear, if you do this, your husband will be forever grateful.
Any other dining spot/hotel stay will only be icing on the cake.

Dear Lil,

I agree with the above post. There is just something about men and their baseball. Our first trip to Chicaco was so that my husband could see Harry Carey at Wrigley Field and see the old Comiskey Park before it was tore down. Then, we fell in love with the city. We have been back 6 times in the last 6 years! What can I say!!!! It is one fantastic place. I know you will have a great time. As for romance, go up the the top of the John Hancock tower just as the sun it starting to set, then stay until it is completely dark. What a beautiful sight. Have Fun!!!!!!!!!
Leah

You could also have fun spotting all the cows all over the city. They're life-sized, done by artists and will be there until Oct 31. Check out www.ci.chi.us/tourism/CowsOnParade.

You could also have fun spotting all the cows all over the city. They're life-sized, done by artists and will be there until Oct 31. Check out www.metromix.com for chicago info.