Current Favorites for…
Business lunches
- Maison Brasserie - Maison knows their lunchtime clientele and are exceptionally respectful of time for professionals dining at lunch. There's even a separate express café for those tight on time, but the beautiful views overlooking the park in the main dining room are preferred.
- Piccolo Sogno Due - Experienced servers and crowd-pleasing pasta options make Piccolo's latest outpost a no-fail option for lunch during the work week.
- Slurping Turtle - Creative seating and delicious noodles make this an attractive spot for those looking for something a little different at noon. Noodles sound too messy for business? Try the Bento Box.
After work with "frollegues"
- Au Cheval - Great for dinner and drinks after work. The greasy spoon options are tasty and easy to share. And if there's a long wait…you have lots of other options within walking distance.
- Bub City - Finally! An upscale country music spot. Thank you for bringing live music, 115 varieties of whiskey and spoon bread to Chicago. The dual bars mean twice the chance you and your co-workers will find room to congregate.
- Glunz Tavern - The neighborhood vibe and friendly staff keep this place busy with locals after work. Great for those looking for a quieter option with a lot of history.
- RPM - Your posh happy hour spot. The decor is cool, the drinks are good and the people are beautiful, or famous, as this seems to be Lady Gaga's favorite in Chicago.
Client dinners
- Boarding House - The space alone will win your client over. Great place for special occasions, and if there isn't time for a full meal, the first floor bar is an excellent option for drinks.
- City Winery - Airy and spacious, this venue is great for networking. The large outdoor space is sure to be popular with the after-work crowd this summer.
- Embeya - The trendy décor makes a striking impression, yet is still inviting and sophisticated. Perfect for more formal dinners.
- Tortoise Club - Cozy, yet polished, with a warm library feel that is great for entertaining in the winter months. I think this spot could benefit from a little more personality though.
When you've had a really long day and decide to treat yourself
- Ada Street - Get a seat anywhere you can at this tiny hidden gem and relax with flavorful small plates and craft cocktails.
- Little Market Brasserie - The sophisticated small plates are great for sharing with friends, and while the atmosphere is lively, it is not overwhelming.
- Nellcote - There's something about sitting under a ceiling of chandeliers, drinking sparkling wine and eating gourmet Broche pizza that can make any ordinary day seem special.
- Ruxbin - Whose spirits wouldn't be lifted after dinner at a cozy BYOB? The small kitchen brings out dishes as soon as they are prepared so it is best to order a variety at the beginning and share as they arrive.
One place that fits all the categories is newcomer Chuck's Manufacturing. The sleek yet playfully modern dining room works well for business during the day, as well for drinks after work. The staff is friendly and the food can be geared toward the individual or easily shareable. Desserts are exceptionally good…which is especially appreciated after a long day at the office.
For LMA members doing business in Indiana, I'd like to give an honorable mention to Restaurant Tallent in Bloomington. It is fantastic! Go for any occasion suggested above, or for no reason at all.
Rachel Repke is the North America Client Development Manager for Baker & McKenzie. Rachel would like to thank the LMA Midwest Chapter for giving her a more legitimate platform for sharing her thoughts on restaurants and event venues, rather than the highly unofficial “Foodie Update” she sends to a few people in her office.