Taste of Chicago-July 2nd (Robinson, Atlanta: appointed, unemployed, school)

[southkakkatlantan]

Originally Posted by jdiddy

Yeah. The taste is a big summer event, which is why I don't understand why everyone and their mother needs to mention that its hot, crowded and overpriced. Of course it is, that's what happens when you have a big event.

I think everyone understands that you're not going to the taste to eat at bargain basement prices.

So, yes, south kakka? atlantan, the advice you've been given is correct. Going to watch the fireworks at a major public event in the third biggest city in the country will mean there will be other people around you.

As for your other question...there are so many options for you, its easier to recommend you check out chicago.metromix.com to find what suits you.

The obligatory advice for going to the hancock is to avoid the observatory floor and just go to the Signature Lounge on the 106th floor, get some drinks, enjoy the view.

Thanks for the link...I will check that out now, as I'm still trying to find a spot for us to go late Thursday night....

[southkakkatlantan]

Originally Posted by Chicagodan

Two of my favorite (and very popular) River North/Michigan Ave restaurants are Weber Grill and Grand Lux Cafe. If you like the smoky flavor of grilled meats and seafood, you'll love the Weber Grill at 539 N. State St. They really do cook over very large Weber kettles - the smell is crazy good. A great "nibbly" dish is the Weber Sampler that includes skewers of grilled shrimp, chicken, steak and ribs - mmmmm! Great fresh sangria, too. Grand Lux Cafe is one of those restaurants that everybody likes. It's surprisingly big, has a cool/casual feel, and has something for everyone on their menu. And, it's one block away from the James Hotel. It's located on Ontario between Rush and Michigan Ave., upstairs above Ann Taylor. And oh yeah, if the skies are clear, the Hancock is worth it!

That Grand Lux Cafe place looks nice, and it's a huge plus it's only one block from our hotel. I went to pull up the menu and forward it to my friends to make sure they're cool with it, but there's no pricing on the menu I called and asked them to fax me a menu with pricing and they said they didn't have one they could fax LOL

[surlycue]

Originally Posted by southkakkatlantan

That Grand Lux Cafe place looks nice, and it's a huge plus it's only one block from our hotel. I went to pull up the menu and forward it to my friends to make sure they're cool with it, but there's no pricing on the menu I called and asked them to fax me a menu with pricing and they said they didn't have one they could fax LOL

The chain is the higher up equivalent to Cheesecake Factory. Their pricing is about what J. Alexander's is if you have ever eaten there.

[gichicago]

Originally Posted by southkakkatlantan

Thanks for the suggestions!

Frontera Grill looks soooo good, but they don't do brunch on Sundays. Maybe we can fit it in on Saturday.

I will look up the Lou Malnatis place you suggested...

Yeah, i would really try for Frontera. As mentioned, grand luxe is similar to cheesecake factory so you wont be getting anything really unique to Chicago. If you're adventurous, check out Wishbone or Publican, both a cab ride away. Tavern on Rush is also walking distance from your hotel, which is acceptable, though can be a little obnoxious. And actually that Tavern on Rush area you can find some lounges and bars (Whiskey bar comes to mind), but to forewarn you that area is referred to as the Viagra triangle. Go up to North ave, and there are a bunch of regular bars.

[jdiddy]

Originally Posted by gichicago

Yeah, i would really try for Frontera. As mentioned, grand luxe is similar to cheesecake factory so you wont be getting anything really unique to Chicago. If you're adventurous, check out Wishbone or Publican, both a cab ride away. Tavern on Rush is also walking distance from your hotel, which is acceptable, though can be a little obnoxious. And actually that Tavern on Rush area you can find some lounges and bars (Whiskey bar comes to mind), but to forewarn you that area is referred to as the Viagra triangle. Go up to North ave, and there are a bunch of regular bars.

Also a few places on Hubbard just south of where you're staying.

There's the recently opened Lasalle Power Co near your hotel, but its a self-described Rock Bar, and I avoid places like that. If you need to call yourself a rock bar, you're no rock bar.

But that's me. I'm a cynic.

[Chi-town Native]

can't stand the Taste, but that's because I can get this food any day, good luck to you, and thanks for lightening our tax burden. : )

I will chime in to agree that Frontera is one of the best dining experiences Chicago has to offer.

[southkakkatlantan]

Originally Posted by gichicago

Yeah, i would really try for Frontera. As mentioned, grand luxe is similar to cheesecake factory so you wont be getting anything really unique to Chicago. If you're adventurous, check out Wishbone or Publican, both a cab ride away. Tavern on Rush is also walking distance from your hotel, which is acceptable, though can be a little obnoxious. And actually that Tavern on Rush area you can find some lounges and bars (Whiskey bar comes to mind), but to forewarn you that area is referred to as the Viagra triangle. Go up to North ave, and there are a bunch of regular bars.

^That Wishbone place looks reallly good...and I see they have brunch, too! Am definitely gonna try to check them and Frontera out.

THANKS!!!

[UICJohn]

And if you're going to the Taste a few suggestions:

The Jambalaya and / or Gator Sausage from Blue Bayou are both very good.
The breaded calimari from Joe's is also good
Pulled pork or boneless rib from Sweet Baby Ray's or Robinson's
Tiramisu gelato for dessert or a combo (piece of fudge, chocolate covered banana and a chocolate covered strawberry) but I forgot the names of those places.

[Regz7]

The fried Turkey legs were delicious last year! That's the only things I get at the taste - southern and creole cooking from restaurants that are in neighborhoods that I wouldn't DARE go in with my white self.

[Drover]

Originally Posted by jdiddy

The obligatory advice for going to the hancock is to avoid the observatory floor and just go to the Signature Lounge on the 106th floor, get some drinks, enjoy the view.

106th floor? Wouldn't that put her about half way up one of the spires?