NWR: A Quick Chicago Suggestion

Bill Lundstrom

Bill Lundstrom

Bill Lundstrom
i need to pick a restaurant for a small group, about 8, on a monday night in chicago. it has to be walking distance or a very quick cab ride from the hyatt on wacker.

in the past this group has enjoyed naha and 160 blue ( but we can't venture that far from the hotel this time). so price-wise it can be in that league. wine list doesn't have to be completely disorderly friendly but it needs to be interesting with some decent wines in the $40-$60ish a bottle range.

so to sum up priorities: 1) close to hyatt on wacker, 2)decent wine list with some interesting options in the $40-$60 range 3) food can be asian, italian, french, doesn't really matter as long as its well prepared.

any ideas? thanks in advance.
 
Purple pig, although I think still a no reservation policy, which could be problematic.

Henri isn't my favorite but you could do worse. The Gage next door may be better.

Although the food and ambiance are mediocre at best (steakhouse), the list alone may be worth a trip to Benny's. 15 year old muscadet for $30 and Texier among the affordable highlights.

Haven't been since a new chef took over, but Cibo Matto used to be solid if spendy hotel dining. List included Montevertine and Radikon.

That should get you started. Holler if you would like additional options.
 
originally posted by Bill Lundstrom:
thanks guys. funny, i just watched cibo matto chef on iron chef last night.
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I hope that you used Cibo Matto as the soundtrack to that episode.

Mark Lipton
 
originally posted by Nathan Odem:
Purple pig, although I think still a no reservation policy, which could be problematic.
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Ate there a couple weeks ago - true re: no reservations but we ate at the bar (only 2 of us). Worth a visit. Party of eight would be tough unless you got there shortly after opening and specially so if the weather was inclement curtailing their outdoor seating.

The bartender at the Pig recommended Maudes Liquor Bar which has good reviews but I had to save for the next visit.
 
I'll second Lars' suggestion of Sepia. Andrew Zimmerman is doing some solid things with the menu, and the wine list is quietly one of the more interesting in town. I personally don't think I'm drawn to Scholium by the glass, but that's a pretty ballsy move around here.

I ate at Cibo Matto a couple of months back - if you're a high roller I think you might do okay with that winelist, but I wouldn't say it's deep with great (any?) choices in the $40-60 range. The food was *fine* - the main benefit is location, and you'll have the place to yourself on a Monday night.

Avec and Purple Pig would be great options if you ditch six of your compatriots.
 
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