Chicago--Dining at the bar

[CSASphinx]

Hello Gang,

I'll be in Chicago for a couple of days at a conference. I'll by flying solo, so if I don't meet like-minded food hounds during the day, I'll be venturing out on my own in search of tasty bites.

What I'm interested in are good restaurants that provide the full menu at the bar and a restaurant where serving folks at the bar is a regular part of what they do, not an after thought.

In New York, I've had great luck at places like Babbo, where once seated you can enjoy a good meal and make new friends on either side of you.

One thought I had was to go to Avec, since the communal dining there would be similar, but any other suggestions would be welcome.

Blue 13?

Graham Eliot?

Looking for vibrant bar scene and exceptional food.

Thanks.

[dlc]

My wife and I did exactly that at Graham Eliot over Labor Day weekend. The bartenders were super, the group at the bar convivial and the food superb. We also had a great time at the bar at Cafe Lula for a late lunch.

Edited September 20, 2008 by dlc (log)

[Alchemist]

I've eaten at the bar at Blackbird, Boka, Kuma's, Hot Dougs and Avec and all have been wonderful experiances. I like eating at the Bar at Mia on Clark and School as well.

Toby

[smorris291]

I'd second the recommendation for Blackbird. The bar is small (similar to Babbo), but that's not a bad thing. Like Babbo, the bartenders are excellent with regards to menu suggestions, too.

[aliaseater]

Uh..Hot Doug's has a bar?

Avec or Blackbird would be good, with Avec being more reasonably priced.

[elfin]

Le Colonial.

[Alchemist]

Uh..Hot Doug's has a bar?

Avec or Blackbird would be good, with Avec being more reasonably priced.

←

Bar/counter, does it matter when you are elbow deep in encased meats?

[KateinChicago]

Avenues at The Peninsula has a dining bar as opposed to a bar bar . I have not eaten at the bar but I ate at the restaurant at a table last Friday. I enjoyed the food for the most part the exception being the mini- desserts two of which I loathed. One of the "butters" served with the breads, an olive oil "emulsion" with herbs was also not enjoyed. It was a solid olive oil and herb concoction that tasted, the only word that comes to mind, smarmy and not herby or olive oily. I also didn't like the amuse but that's probably just me as I have a problem with egg yolks and caviar is not one of my favorite things. The bar overlooks the kitchen so that seems pretty cool. You are offered 3 options ranging from $75 to $140 for pre-set tastings

I hadn't eaten there since Graham Elliot Bowles left. I really liked the potato, scallop, lamb course and the main dessert but I get a lttle miffed that restaurants like this offer no options. But a person desiring cutting edge type food should enjoy.

Nomi also offers a food bar.

Kate

[Poffertjes]

Spring serves at the bar, and the bartenders are top notch. Plus its around the corner from the Violet Hour if you need another drink.

[Lenski]

I will second "Spring" for sure. I think it is the best bar/restaurant in town. I have also eaten at "Custom House" and, depending on your location, it might also work for you.