HELP ME EAT IN CHICAGO!

Egad. Yes, go to Chicago and eat at freakin' Rock Bottom.

 

You don't go to Chicago and eat at a chain restaurant.

 

And both VERY expensive. There's a third place owned by that group, about 100 yards away, the third leg of The Viagra Triangle, as my friends call it...LuxBar, younger crowd, great bar food, more casual.

Last time I was in Chicago, amazed by all the great spots in the River North area (near Rockbottom, where you should not bother to go, sorry Hank!)....Hub 51 is the newish hot spot, huge menu, young crowd.

But if you're coming straight from a Cub game, there are a million places right near the ballpark.

 

I considered it, but wondered if it would it be low-key enough for a buncha bums in t-shirts and shorts?

 

I would also love to get a great Italian Beef as there aren't any great places around the ballpark, but we will want to chill out and relax at a table for a couple hours so that probably rules out the good beef joints.

 

I've touted this place to friends and relatives for years. Not stopping, now.

 

I've been to the Chicago one. The act's cute -- once. The food? Eeh.

 

I love bringing out of towners to LuxBar. Best people watching in the city. Will probably be there Monday with my buddy from high school.

 

Both WAY too saucy.

Malnati's was a great disappointment when I went there three years ago, except for the Granitza jersey hanging from the wall...

 

It's a little pricy, but the Chicago Chop House is very good.

 

Since you liked Smoque -- which is great -- last time, you might dig this place:

http://www.fatwillys.com/

Not a far cab ride from Wrigley, but it's across the street from a 14 screen movie theater, so it's crowded on weekends.

 

Portillo's. Portillo's. Portillo's. And Portillo's.
Best beef in the city.

I was always partial to Pete's Pizza, near Addison and Western.
I prefer thin crust. Deep dish is what we feed to tourists.

And go to Hero's, on the corner of Addison and Western. Best subs I've ever had.