City: Chicago, IL

Category: Restaurants

Telephone: (312) 755-9463

Address: 339 N. Dearborn St.

Description: For descriptions that demystify wine, Bin 36 could have written the book. Part wine store, part tavern, but mostly restaurant, this next-to-the-river spot in the Marina City enclave takes the whole daunting grape experience and makes it fun. Try a variety of wine flights, 48 wines by the glass, numerous classes and events, and chat up Brian Duncan, a James Beard award nominee who has been known to refer to himself as the “wine chef.” He oversees the wine program and blends the Bin 36 brand wines himself. He’s particularly beloved around town for his passion for vino and the down-to-earth way he expresses it. Pair your wine pick with delectable artisan cheeses at the oval-shape bar or opt for a full meal from chef John Caputo’s menu of creative contemporary American dishes such as steamed mussels, cheese fondue, and black pepper–crusted swordfish. Open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.