“I stayed at the Graduate in Evanston for a few days in July. I really liked the vintage style of the hotel building, and the friendly staff, but I was dismayed at how cold it was in the hotel because of the excessive air conditioning. I turned it off in our room as soon as we arrived and the temperature remained comfortable there during our whole stay. It seemed to me that the AC in the lobby, the restaurant, and the bar was actually set to a lower temperature than the heating would be in the winter. And there was a fire in the fireplace, with temperatures in the 80s and 90s outside and AC on! The Graduate Hotel management seems to be ignoring how important saving energy is right now, in light of global warming. Their blatant disregard for the environment sent a shiver down my spine in more than one way.“
“This is one of my husband’s and my favorite place! We were a big fan of Creperie St. Germaine so we are so happy that they haven’t completely changed the delicious menu and the interior is the same cozy place we love! And the crepes are to die for! This place is freaking AWESOME!!!“
“Deeee-licious!!! The short rib empanadas were flaky and flavorful. The staff were very helpful and attentive. The owner stopped by the table to complete the experience. The menu was very interesting--definitely going back.Parking: Pay parking right in front but two-hour free parking on the neighborhood streets right around the corner.“
“Lucky Platter is a a true gem. Very tasty food, wonderful staff and a great owner. My favorite dishes at Lucky Plater are: Swedish crepes, tandoori salmon, pull pork tacos with a most amazing pineapple salsa and pumpkin soup.5 ⭐️ all the way!“
“I have been to Bat 17 numerous times over the years, and I always really enjoy it. They have solid vegetarian options, and the rest of their food is equally good. Their outside seating section is a big hit in the warm weather, but the indoors is just as nice. The servers in my experience have always been kind and helpful which is much appreciated! I feel like it is hard to find a good sandwhich or burger nowadays, but Bat 17 does the basics very well.“
“This place has a cool, hip vibe and it’s fun to eat at the communal tables. Friendly and knowledgeable staff. Great variety of beer and creative craft cocktails. Food is beautifully plated and delicious - make sure to try the potatoes, baby gem salad and hanger steak.“
“We had dinner at Northpond last summer. We had a very enjoyable dinner experience of Michelin quality.There was a very delicious tasting menu of 4 courses with wine pairing. My boyfriend and I prefer different dishes and taste each other's plates. So I tasted 8 different dishes and they all impressed me very much. Wine selections were also very good.I hope everyone can experience this experience at least once.“
“What a beautiful setting for a restaurant! I'm impressed each time I dine at 3 Arts Club.The service is excellent, from the greeters to the waitresses. The food is also delicious and comes out rather quick! All around, a great experience.“
“I had another fantastic experience here. Every dish was delicious, and Emily provided exceptional service. The drinks were truly phenomenal. Overall, my experience at this place is consistently excellent. The music adds to the enjoyable atmosphere, and the service is always top-notch.“
“I haven’t been impressed with Italian food here in Chicago until now. This place is seriously good. The appetizers recommended by our server were outstanding. Superb flavors. Handmade pasta dishes were very, very good. The final course of pork collar was phenomenal. I would definitely recommend this place over others.“
“Went here for Burnch on a Sunday. It is first come first serve so had to wait a little over an hour. Roamed a bit around the neighborhood as every area of the city has its own charm.Plenty of street parking or can always park in the near by garage.Ordered the classic lulu breakfast burrito, chickpea and fennel tagine and a smoked trout scramble. I would say the Chickpea and fennel tagine was awesome and a must on every visit.Parking: Parking spots near by and then paid garage couple of blocks awayKid-friendliness: Yes great with kids“
“Esmé is a phenomenal experience. We went for a belated Valentine’s Day date and did their tasting menu. The atmosphere is museum like, with beautiful art but also very comfortable. The food was beautiful, delicious, and fun to eat. The cocktails were amazing (I highly recommend Squash the Beef, made with apple brandy, squash, wagyu, and egg whites) and the service was excellent. We asked if they had a wine pairing for the tasting menu, and they didn’t, but they offered to create one for us! The wines were delicious and beautifully paired. Truly above and beyond.“
“Updated review, still a very solid cocktail bar even if the rules on cell phones and dress code have gotten a bit lax over the years.Menu all around is good and the bar tenders are very knowledgeable. Space overall is pretty quiet and arranged in such a way that things feel very private.Worth stopping by at least onceLook for the recessed door, you could walk by without ever knowing it's there!“
“Gather is CONSISTENTLY fantastic. I’ve been 5+ times over the last year or two and have never had a bad experience. Tonight, they were able to fit us in for a celebration dinner - they’re so accommodating and the menu options change seasonally, but every option has been consistently delicious. The atmosphere is fantastic, warm, and inviting. Everyone who works here is friendly and helpful. They’ve been so accommodating of allergies and dietary restrictions. Will always recommend Gather.“
“I don't know where my last positive review is but I'm back here and it's STILL just a good. I was here 8 months ago and got the same thing. Why get anything else when the was SOO good the first time. I just got the classic little wolf burger and fries. That burger has two patties, cheese, pickles and a mayo with pieces of onion chopped into it. I'm not big on pieces of mayo so I get it on the side. The fries come with a chilli pepper mayo and it's THE BEST. I dip my burger in it. It's not spicy as you would think. The fries are great too. Not that crispy which I love but I'm sure you can ask for them to be if you like. Might be the best burger I've had to date. Last time I got the Mac n cheese and I don't recall how that was.“
“We loved our experience at Giant! We’ve been wanting to eat here for a while and thought what better time than to go out for my birthday. My wife and I can’t say enough great things about the food, our server Bailey and the whole experience. Bailey was the best server ever! We love her and will definitely be back.“
“We came here for our anniversary and did the tasting menu. First off, the atmosphere is so lovely, so warm, inviting, and welcoming. They offer to take your coats before sitting you at your table. We sat in the back area underneath the beautiful glass canopy. Our waiter was attentive, knowledgeable, and friendly. This was our first time at a Michelin starred restaurant, and the service alone was worth it! My husband joked that his glass of water was never even a little bit empty. They were that impressive! All the dishes were superb. Each glass of wine paired so perfectly with each dish, creating multiple flavor profiles every time. The trout was unbelievable, I've never had fish that tender. At the end of the meal, they gave us to go snacks and a menu of our meal including the wine! The pound cake treat was phenomenal. Can't wait to come back!!“
“Love to have this breakfast and bunch place at my neighborhood!Kid-friendliness: My son loves their pancakes, fish and chip and the welcoming cakes so much! They even made a watermelon juice out of the menu for him just because he asked for. Coloring, books and toys for their little customers too.“
“I came here with a group of girlfriends and Brian was an amazing server. He gave us great suggestions for the appetizers and entrees. Uli the bartender made us some delicious cocktails. We are coming back. Thank you brain and uli for an amazing experience!“
“Eden, located in Chicago, provided a delightful dining experience for my first visit. Arriving late allowed us to secure a table swiftly. I indulged in a couple of dirty martinis to kickstart the evening, accompanied by the exquisite wagyu tartare, which left my taste buds thoroughly satisfied. For the main course, I opted for the crab bucatini, savoring each delectable bite, while my companion thoroughly enjoyed the flavorful chicken dish. The service was exemplary, and the restaurant exuded cleanliness, with the added luxury of real hand towels in the bathrooms, a detail not often found. The ambiance, with its well-thought-out lighting and decor, further elevated the experience. Overall, Eden offered a memorable dining venture, leaving me eager to return for another culinary adventure.“
“A not so hidden gem as of late now that reviews are catching up with the imaginative menu and exceptional dining experience Community Tavern has been consistently providing over the past several years. Menu is full of unique dishes… elevated dumpling and noodles are a signature. Beautifully plated and generous- but not overly. Cocktail menu is fun, with zero proof options that are spot on. Save room for baked Alaska. Oh, and ambiance is chic but allows the focus to be where it belongs. On the food. Upscale West Loop experience in modest Portage Park for a lot less and no pretense.“
“Very good brunch spot. Small and cozy but they do take reservations, so we were able to get in with a large group with minimal wait. The food, especially the Spanish omelet was spot on. The potatoes that came with the dishes was excellent.“
“TL;DR - If you’re even slightly thinking about coming here, just do it. Revolution has the best beer in the city, fantastic food, and incredible staff.A lot of breweries in Chicago excel in making their one or two specialty styles of beer, and that’s it. Revolution, on the other hand, is able to guarantee high quality and incredibly drinkable beer across just about every style you can think of. I normally hate those dark, boozy, 15+% ABV beers, yet I drink every single one that Rev puts out and I love it. Their “Hero”-series IPAs will make even the biggest IPA hater second guess their hatred. And their sours (usually released during the summer) are so good, you will question how something this good can be alcoholic. Revolution doesn’t put out a beer that isn’t incredible, so you can pick a beer at random and be sure to enjoy it.Recently, the Brewpub renovated their space and, with it, re-did a lot of their menu. The space is cozy, yet upscale (the seating is significantly comfier than it once was with new plush seating). The new food is also really high quality - much higher than you would expect from a brewery. A lot of detail is put into plating and presentation (Mushrooms & Tofu, for example, looks like a piece of art), and still it tastes somehow even better than it looks. In addition to more upscale menu items, you’re also able to get a lot of that “typical” bar food here that fully delivers (pretzel, cheese curds, fries, etc.). The only gripe I could possibly have here is on the pricing of some of the food. This does not apply to the whole menu though, just some items that feel like they are priced higher than they should be (e.g. Lion’s Mane mushrooms, a starter, costs the same as the Mushrooms & Tofu, an entree, despite being significantly less food and sharing some similar ingredients. Why?!). If you can view this less as a bar and more like a nicer restaurant (which, with the renovation completed, is easy to do), then the pricing is a lot more palatable.The ambiance, food, and drinks are all great, but it’s the staff at Revolution that keeps me coming back though. They’re all so friendly, personable, passionate, and professional - they are the kind of people that make your night out feel special. My fiancé and I have celebrated birthdays, engagements, job offers, anniversaries, and so much more here because of how wonderful the staff are in celebrating and creating such a fun environment to be in. They make Revolution a place we want to go whenever we want to have a good time out. There are just too many people to name (Magnolia, Drake, Erwin, Makenna, Amy, Matt, just to name a few) - but rest assured that we love just about everyone who has served us here. So much so, that my fiancé and I are getting married here later this year!This is the easiest 5 stars I have ever handed out. I have so little to say about places that are “meh”, so the length of this review should show how much I love it here. I’ve come here at least every week for the last 2+ years, and I don’t have any intention of slowing down anytime soon. If you’re still reading this, please stop reading and start drinking, and do it at the Brewpub! You won’t regret it!Vegetarian options: Plenty of vegetarian and vegan options here. Standouts include the veggie burger (vegan by default), Mushrooms & Tofu (vegan), and a delicious pretzel with beer cheese (vegetarian and oh so good).“
“Small restaurant with modern american decor. Street parking around the area. The staff were amazing and so nice, knowledgeable about the food and drinks. We did the tasting menu with the spirit free pairing. I thought the food portions were acceptable. The appetizers were great as were the desserts. The drinks were great too. Although there were multiple savory courses, my friends and I thought it was still lacking. Overall a great night still.“
“Some of the best grilled seafood in the city and that's saying something. Top 2 in the city along with Dees" IMO. Very seasoned without being salty. My guess is garlic. Crabs are my go-to. The corn, potatoes, and turkey necks are all tasty too.“
“We've eaten there 3 or 4 times now, each time delicious food and very nice service. We were able to sit and chat without worrying about taking up table for too long. When offered a coffee refill we were leaving and I asked if I could have refill in a to-go cup, request received with a smile. Looking forward to our next visit!“
“I recently visited Volo Wine Bar and I must say, it exceeded all my expectations! The ambiance of the patio was simply amazing, providing a perfect setting to enjoy a glass of wine. The happy hour deals were fantastic, offering a wide selection of wines at great prices. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable, making the experience even more enjoyable. I highly recommend Volo Wine Bar for anyone looking for a cozy and inviting spot to unwind and enjoy quality wine. A definite 5-star experience!“
“Fantastic place, top to bottom, start to finish. This restaurant group really knows what they're doing, the details from the interior design to the furniture and decor is beautiful. More importantly, the FOOD and the SERVICE. Top notch. Excellent, every aspect, with a staff that is attentive but never overbearing, everyone is friendly and helpful. A really wonderful experience!“
“Went here for my birthday tonight! Fantastic food (comes out quick, all plates are to be shared), great cocktails and excellent wine selection, and our server Arcee (RC? I’m not sure…) was delightful and provided excellent service. 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️“
“Superb food, really unique, flavorful, and savory. We try to visit as often as we can because the food is that good. Service is thoughtful and friendly. BYOW or go dry. Be mindful that if you haven't been here before, it can be very loud because people are having such a great time.“
“We had a long wait, but it was remediated by glasses of champagne and a pastry flight. Even though the beginning wait wasn’t great, we felt so accommodated by the service I’d recommend anywhere and come back again. Anna, our waiter, and Justin, the GM, were so cognizant of our wait and appropriately compensated us. Even though our reservation didn’t go as planned, I’d recommend this restaurant for the apt service“
“A latin style brunch place with delicious food. Chilaquiles are spicy, hearty. The rice and black beans are good, also different compared to most Mexican restaurants. The maduros and orange slice cuts are notable and unique. Also, don't confuse the leafs 'veins' for a hair, as I freaked out pulling one from the eggs. Restaurant decor is modern, food was ready quick, and the server was nice This place also serves pumpkin spice coffee year round.“
“A nearly 11 year old spot though under-trafficked with excellent brunch on our first time here. The sweet potato omelette was excellent. The turnip omelette was also very good. Chose a side of heartwarming diner style pancakes which have options for add ons (chocolate chips, banana), gluten free, or carrot pancakes. Drip coffee is quite good and surprisingly strong. Service is decidely very friendly and prompt. The atmosphere is relaxed upscale and looks as if they had just opened. Highly recommend.“
“I went to Mother's Ruin with a group of my coworkers, and Keith the bartender took the best care of us. He really made all of our nights special. I have also gone to Mother's Ruin for my birthday and graduation, and each time the service is always spectacular. I can't recommend this place enough! I highly recommend the nachos, and the specialty cocktails they have are all delicious.“
“I chose to celebrate my birthday at Ella Eli and my guests and I will be talking for months on what an excellent experience we had. Absolutely hands down one of the best dinners in Chicago. Paige, our server , was knowledgeable and attentive. The food was spectacular. The layers of flavor and texture kept you eager for the next bite! Holly as well was very kind to meet with my table and wish me a lovely birthday! She interested with my guests like they were old friends. Truly and genuine experience. Can’t wait to go back!“
“We are from Kansas City and are extremely huge foodies. We have been trying to dine at Alinea since COVID first started. We are huge fans of Grant and the Alinea Group. They create and maintain excellent food and a dramatic experience. Finally, in April, we were able to visit Alinea for our anniversary. It did not disappoint!From the moment you walk into Alinea, you arr greated and taken care of like your family. The restaurant and the staff are not stuffy nor snobby, which is likely hard to do because of the level of food you're enjoying. The food is like a full culinary experience. Think of it like a movie. Thr staff is trained to truly understand every single element. They take the time to explain the dish, the region it's from, and even help you walk through how the chef intended it to be eaten.The experience blew our minds!If you can have the time, the money (it's not cheap), and an open mind, you will NOT REGRET dining at Alinea.Vegetarian options: You can request anything ahead of time and they will accommodate.Dietary restrictions: You can request anything ahead of time and they will accommodate.Parking: Street parking is limited, and the building has no sign, so you likely could miss it.Kid-friendliness: Ahhh, no, I would say not. Unless your children are amazing.Wheelchair accessibility: Stairs everywhere are so likely not easy to do.“
“Beth M was the most gracious, attentive and thoughtful employee. From the greeting to the final check, she was professional, kind AF, didn’t miss a beat and lemme talk about thorough. She made every customer feel like they were the only customer! That chica deserves a shoutout!Food and bevs - YUMMMMMMM AND vegetarian friendly“
“The chicken sandwich was really juicy and crispy with great pickles. They put a slab of cheese over the grilled cheese to keep it from getting soggy and the soup was delicious and this is coming from someone that doesn't like tomato soup. Our waitress was excellent. Very helpful and provided recommendations when needed. However, do not do the outdoor seating if the temp is below 60° you will be cold.“
“Everything about this place has a classic feel, but not like a played-out classic. It's more nostalgic with a twist. The food has an old-school feel that will make your inner child sing while satisfying your adult taste buds and sensibilities. The product is consistently delicious. Pop in if you're in the neighborhood.“
“Every time I am in Chicago, I try to make it to the Bongo Room for an amazing brunch. I was disappointed to find out that their other location closed but happy that this location was still open on my last trip. They service was excellent. I got the French toast, and it was delicious as always. I always have a consistently good meal from this place and can't wait to eat there again.“
“We decided to stop in while shopping down the Southport corridor and I’m glad that we did. The food was great, and there was a good selection of beers. Staff was friendly and the ambience inside is nice. My only criticism is that at times it felt very disorganized when they were trying to seat guests.“
“While the food is excellent and locally sourced, the prices are high. It's an a la carte menu. They even charge for bread. Soups are $8, salads $15+ and they're not entree size. I suggest sharing entrees to save money and enjoy the food.“
“We had a really nice dinner here a couple days before Christmas. It has a really cozy neighborhood feel and the waiter was super nice. They have a daily happy hour which was awesome, we got mussels and cocktail shrimp for a really good price. It is very family friendly, they were very kind to our toddler. The best thing we ate there among many good things was the apple galette dessert, it was amazing.“
“The best experience with the kindest most enthusiastic staff! The whole store feels like a giant hug from the minute you walk in and the prepared food choices are creative and plenty! We bought chef made dinner, ready to go for 2 nights of easy eating and no cooking and it was DELICIOUS!“
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“Wow, this place is AMAZING? Great service, hopping atmosphere, and every single one of our dishes were delicious. We will be making this establishment a regular breakfast place during our Chicago visits! Food ordered was: Breakfast burrito Croissant Sandwich Buttermilk pancakes with a side of crispy bacon!“
“I can’t express the joy I feel when I have life changing food!! I was brought to this restaurant and everything I ate and drank was divine, and most of it was very healthy! Refreshing, flavorful, unforgettable. We tried some new dishes that aren’t on the menu yet, met the owner of a fabulous tequila company, and enjoyed every moment. Please friends, do me and yourself a favor and come to Chicago to eat here.“
“As soon as you enter this ultimate neighborhood bistro you feel the welcoming vibe of its beautiful back lit bar, marble counter and the ambiance of the low lit lighting. Upon our arrival we were greeted by friendly staff and the counter service ordering concept was explained...quick and easy. The food was coursed out perfectly. We enjoyed our lunch choices of the Fried Branzini Sandwich, which as made to perfection. The Beet Salad was an addition to our meal and was dressed with excellence. The Smoked Corned Beef Sandwich was another show stopper...perfectly smoked and flavorful. A side of the Beef Fat Fries is a must. Best Fries in the city...full stop. Chef Tom visited our table and was delightful.. To top off our visit to this warm, friendly establishment, we were delighted to have the Butterscotch Pudding with brown butter, rum and hazelnuts....Bon Appetit! Looking forward to returning to experience their dinner menu!“
“Super fun vibe - order at the counter. Eclectic taco options - chicken and waffles? Yes please. With rotating special tacos. Red velvet cake on deck for dessert. The tacos are on the larger side and have plenary of “stuff” on the inside. Chips and queso are not essential but a tasty add on - as are the nachos (I ordered with no meat and they were still fabulous). We love coming back to VT when we’re in the area!Vegetarian options: Plenty of delicious veggie friendly options available! The menu is separated by meat/veg so they’re easy to siphon through.“
“WHAT? How can you cook chicken like this? Soooo tender and juicy. I ordered salad and it's a salad nothing impressive and my kids ordered fried seafood which I never liked but my husband ordered chicken sandwich and it's so AMAZING. It's a little bit spicy for me but they do have nonspicy choice. Really, really amazing“
“Just celebrated my wife's birthday. Food was fantastic. Some people in our party don't eat meat. The chef made up a vegetarian soup they said was great. The chef made a birthday cake that was wonderful. Great experience. Will definitely go back.“